Sociology at William Penn University

Oskaloosa, IA · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree
32 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
33
Optimistic
32
Base Case
30
Pessimistic
Earnings $34,099/yr (-1% vs median)
AI Risk High (42% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (114,800 openings/yr)
ROI 3.9x earnings multiple
Ranked #317 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 $444K $448K $428K
Earnings Multiple 3.9x 3.9x 3.7x
Probability of Field Employment 48% 44% 34%
DegreeOutlook Score 33 32 30

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$115,000
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$88,460
23% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$26,625
9.4 months of Year 1 earnings

Program Analysis

First-year earnings of $34,099 track close to the $34,392 national median for Sociology programs. This is a middle-of-the-road outcome on salary alone.

At 3.9x tuition cost in decade earnings, the ROI is moderate. This program pays for itself, but it's not a financial slam-dunk.

The 4% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Sociology career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

At $26,625 against $34,099/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

A #317 ranking among 414 Sociology programs places William Penn University in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.

About William Penn University

With a 57% acceptance rate, William Penn University is moderately selective, with a smaller student body of 1,391 in Oskaloosa, IA. With 46% of students on Pell Grants, the campus draws from a broad economic spectrum.

See all programs and financial aid at William Penn 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 William Penn University

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 32/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Sociology at William Penn University?
At 32/100, 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 William Penn 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 →