Analysis
University of North Florida's sociology program produces graduates who earn modestly above both state and national medians, though the gap isn't dramatic. At $35,728 in the first year, graduates are pulling ahead of the typical Florida sociology graduate by about $2,100 annually. By year four, earnings reach $38,499—respectable growth that suggests decent career trajectory. With debt of $23,250, the burden sits right at Florida's median for the field, translating to a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.65. Graduates should be able to handle monthly loan payments without serious financial strain.
What stands out is how UNF compares to competitors in Florida's crowded sociology market. While not matching Saint Leo's premium outcomes, UNF outpaces larger state universities like UCF, FSU, and even UF's online program. Given UNF's 62% admission rate and lower SAT averages than flagship schools, this represents solid value—students are achieving above-average results without needing elite credentials to gain admission.
The bottom line: This program delivers exactly what you'd hope for from a regional public university. Graduates enter careers earning slightly more than peers statewide while taking on typical debt loads. It's neither a standout bargain nor a risky investment, but rather a dependable option for students interested in sociology who want to stay in Florida without the competitive admissions process of top-tier schools.
Where University of North Florida Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all sociology bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of North Florida graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of North Florida | $35,728 | $38,499 | +8% |
| University of Florida-Online | $33,611 | $46,050 | +37% |
| University of Florida | $33,611 | $46,050 | +37% |
| Saint Leo University | $39,498 | $45,627 | +16% |
| University of Central Florida | $34,926 | $44,436 | +27% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Florida
Sociology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Florida (23 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $6,389 | $35,728 | $38,499 | $23,250 | 0.65 | |
| $28,360 | $39,498 | $45,627 | $46,960 | 1.19 | |
| $6,368 | $34,926 | $44,436 | $26,307 | 0.75 | |
| $33,424 | $33,872 | — | $23,000 | 0.68 | |
| $5,656 | $33,783 | $43,329 | $22,164 | 0.66 | |
| $3,876 | $33,611 | $46,050 | $18,929 | 0.56 | |
| National Median | — | $34,102 | — | $25,000 | 0.73 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with sociology graduates
Sociologists
Sociology Teachers, Postsecondary
Social Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary, All Other
Managers, All Other
Regulatory Affairs Managers
Compliance Managers
Loss Prevention Managers
Wind Energy Operations Managers
Wind Energy Development Managers
Brownfield Redevelopment Specialists and Site Managers
Social Science Research Assistants
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At University of North Florida, approximately 31% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Sample Size: Based on 46 graduates with reported earnings and 49 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.