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Sociology at Central Washington University

Ellensburg, WA · Public · Bachelor's Degree

DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition

Optimistic

Base Case

Pessimistic

Earnings $36,466/yr (6% vs median)

AI Risk High (42% exposed)

Job Market Very Large (114,800 openings/yr)

ROI 15.1x earnings multiple (5.2x out-of-state)

Ranked #38 of 414 Sociology programs Top 10%

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Sociology graduates.

	Optimistic No Disruption	Base Case Gradual AI	Pessimistic Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings	$561K	$555K	$511K
Earnings Multiple (In-State)	15.2x	15.1x	13.9x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State)	5.2x	5.2x	4.8x
Probability of Field Employment	48%	44%	34%
DegreeOutlook Score	50	50	47

10-Year Earnings Projection

*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)

$36,768

Out-of-state: $107,084 (5.2x ROI)

4-Year Net Price (After Aid)

$58,860

-60% less than sticker · See by income

Median Debt at Graduation

$21,950

7.2 months of Year 1 earnings

Reported Earnings (5 Year)

$57,042

56% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

Graduates earn $36,466/yr, edging above the $34,392 national average for Sociology — a modest premium that suggests solid regional demand.

With a 15.1x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 9% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Sociology career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

At $21,950 against $36,466/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

At #38 of 414 programs, this Sociology program outperforms the majority of its peers. The top 10% ranking reflects consistently above-average outcomes.

The $36,466-to-$57,042 earnings arc over five years reflects a 56% gain — well above average career growth for recent graduates.

About Central Washington University

Central Washington University has a 90% acceptance rate, making it broadly accessible, enrolling 8,081 students in Ellensburg, WA.

See all programs and financial aid at Central Washington University →

Top Career Paths

Managers, all other $136,550/yr

Sociologists $101,690/yr

Sociology teachers, postsecondary $82,540/yr

View all 5 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Sociology at Other Schools

Other Majors at Central Washington University

Consider the Trade Route?

Trade programs often mean less time in school, lower student debt, and hands-on career paths that tend to be more resilient to AI disruption.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 50/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Sociology at Central Washington University?

At 50/100, Central Washington University's Sociology program delivers middling returns. School cost and personal fit become important decision factors.

Should I worry about AI if I study Sociology at Central Washington University?

The 42% AI task exposure score is above average. Our model shows this affecting job availability more than salaries — graduates may face stiffer competition for fewer positions.

Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →