Sociology at William Penn University

William Penn's sociology program graduates earn $34,099 in their first year—virtually identical to the national median but notably below Iowa's state median of $38,034. Among Iowa's 20 sociology programs, this ranks in the 40th percentile, meaning six in ten programs produce better initial earnings. Students at University of Northern Iowa and Iowa State, for instance, earn roughly $7,000 more right out of the gate, a meaningful difference for graduates entering their careers.

The debt burden here tells a more positive story. At $28,963, graduates carry slightly more than the national median but less than what most Iowa sociology students face. The 0.85 debt-to-earnings ratio is manageable—students borrow less than one year's salary, which is a reasonable starting point for repayment. The small sample size (under 30 graduates) means these figures could shift significantly year to year, so they're more of a snapshot than a stable pattern.

For parents weighing this program, the core question is whether William Penn's personalized environment justifies the earnings gap with larger Iowa institutions. If your child thrives in smaller settings and the aid package brings the actual debt below $29,000, this could work. But if maximizing early career earnings is the priority, the in-state alternatives at UNI or Iowa State offer a better financial return in this field.