Sociology at Missouri State University-Springfield

Springfield, MO · Public · Bachelor's Degree
37 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
38
Optimistic
37
Base Case
36
Pessimistic
Earnings $31,819/yr (-7% vs median)
AI Risk High (42% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (114,800 openings/yr)
ROI 13.4x earnings multiple (6.7x out-of-state)
Ranked #238 of 414 Sociology programs

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 $482K $483K $455K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 13.4x 13.4x 12.6x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 6.7x 6.7x 6.4x
Probability of Field Employment 48% 44% 34%
DegreeOutlook Score 38 37 36

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$36,096
Out-of-state: $71,712 (6.7x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$70,008
-94% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$19,500
7.4 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$43,970
38% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

At $31,819/yr, Sociology graduates from Missouri State University-Springfield land near the $34,392 national average — neither a standout nor a red flag.

With a 13.4x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 6% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Sociology career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

At $19,500 against $31,819/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

A #238 ranking among 414 Sociology programs places Missouri State University-Springfield in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.

A 38% earnings increase from $31,819 to $43,970 over five years is solid — not a moonshot, but evidence of normal career advancement.

About Missouri State University-Springfield

With 91% of applicants admitted, Missouri State University-Springfield prioritizes broad access, serving 13,407 students in Springfield, MO.

See all programs and financial aid at Missouri State University-Springfield →

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 Missouri State University-Springfield

Is a Trade Program a Better Fit?

For students who prefer applied learning, trade programs can deliver strong earnings with significantly less debt and shorter time to employment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 37/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Sociology at Missouri State University-Springfield?
At 37/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Sociology programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Should I worry about AI if I study Sociology at Missouri State University-Springfield?
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 →