Sociology at University of North Carolina at Pembroke

UNC Pembroke's sociology program delivers something many larger schools don't: graduates leave with less debt than 86% of sociology programs nationwide while earning more than the typical North Carolina graduate in this field. With just $28,526 in debt against first-year earnings of $34,051, the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.84 is manageable—graduates can realistically pay this down within five years even on modest salaries.

The program ranks in the 60th percentile statewide for earnings, placing it solidly in the middle of North Carolina's sociology programs and essentially matching the national median. Nearly half the students receive Pell grants, yet they're graduating with controlled debt loads and competitive starting salaries. The 5% earnings growth over four years is modest but typical for sociology graduates, whose career trajectories often depend on whether they pursue graduate education or specialized roles in nonprofits, government, or social services.

For families weighing this program against pricier in-state options like Wake Forest ($46,257 median) or Duke ($45,551 median), the question becomes whether an extra $10,000-15,000 in annual earnings justifies significantly higher tuition. UNC Pembroke offers a low-risk entry point into sociology—the debt burden won't derail other life goals, and graduates have the flexibility to pursue graduate school or build careers without crushing loan payments.