Sociology at Westminster University

A $26,000 debt load—roughly the national median for sociology programs—paired with first-year earnings around $35,400 creates a workable but not generous financial start. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.73 suggests manageable repayment, though families should understand these figures come from peer programs rather than Westminster's specific graduates. By year four, earnings climb to $46,910, indicating solid progression that could ease the initial squeeze.

What's encouraging is how Westminster's estimated outcomes align with Utah's sociology landscape. Similar programs across the state cluster around $35,400 in early earnings, putting this degree in the mainstream rather than lagging behind. The state's median debt for sociology sits notably lower at $15,071, but Westminster's national-level borrowing isn't alarming given typical private school financing patterns. The real story is the four-year earnings jump—nearly $11,500—which matters more for long-term financial health than the starting point.

The practical reality: sociology rarely leads to immediately lucrative careers, but this program appears to deliver typical outcomes for the field without pricing itself into poor value territory. Parents should factor in that Westminster serves a moderately selective student body (69% admission rate, decent test scores), which could influence career services and networking. The key is ensuring your student has clear plans for converting this degree into employment, whether through internships, graduate school preparation, or targeted career paths in social services, HR, or research.