Analysis
In Wisconsin, sociology bachelor's programs cluster within a fairly narrow earnings range—and based on comparable programs across the state, Viterbo appears to land right at the median. The estimated $35,981 first-year salary sits squarely among peer institutions, matching the state median exactly and coming in just below top performers like UW-Stevens Point. Combined with an estimated $26,000 in debt, the 0.72 debt-to-earnings ratio falls into workable territory, requiring roughly nine months of gross income to cover borrowing.
The challenge is that we're working entirely with estimates here—both the earnings and debt figures come from similar programs statewide, not from tracked outcomes of Viterbo sociology graduates specifically. This makes it impossible to know whether this program runs ahead or behind state trends. What we do know is that sociology bachelor's degrees generally produce modest early earnings, and the state benchmarks suggest Viterbo's version likely follows that pattern rather than defying it.
For families considering this path, the financial picture appears manageable but not exceptional. The debt load won't be crushing, but the salary won't provide much cushion either. Before committing, press Viterbo's career services office for concrete placement data specific to their sociology graduates—where they land, what roles they secure, and whether graduate school becomes necessary for career advancement in their alumni's experience.
Where Viterbo University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all sociology bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Wisconsin
Sociology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Wisconsin (21 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $32,350 | $35,981* | — | $26,000* | — | |
| $8,834 | $37,888* | $43,997 | $25,968* | 0.69 | |
| $10,020 | $36,452* | $43,554 | $26,000* | 0.71 | |
| $8,250 | $36,411* | $43,215 | $26,250* | 0.72 | |
| $58,554 | $36,222* | — | $27,000* | 0.75 | |
| $44,432 | $35,981* | $45,831 | $26,000* | 0.72 | |
| 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 Viterbo University, approximately 22% 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 9 similar programs in WI. Actual outcomes may vary.