Sociology at Winona State University

Winona, MN · Public · Bachelor's Degree
47 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
48
Optimistic
47
Base Case
43
Pessimistic
Earnings $43,505/yr (26% vs median)
AI Risk High (42% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (114,800 openings/yr)
ROI 11.5x earnings multiple (7.0x out-of-state)
Ranked #65 of 414 Sociology programs Top 25%

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 $484K $485K $457K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 11.5x 11.5x 10.9x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 7.0x 7.0x 6.6x
Probability of Field Employment 48% 44% 34%
DegreeOutlook Score 48 47 43

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$41,992
Out-of-state: $68,920 (7.0x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$72,592
-73% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$21,687
6.0 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$46,926
8% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

At $43,505 per year, Sociology graduates from Winona State University significantly outpace the $34,392 national average for this major, reflecting strong employer demand for this program's graduates.

With a 11.5x 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.

The median debt load of $21,687 represents less than half a year of starting salary — among the lightest debt-to-income ratios we track.

Winona State University ranks #65 among 414 Sociology programs, placing it in the top 5% nationally by our financial outcomes measure.

The limited growth from $43,505 to $46,926 over five years suggests earnings in this field plateau relatively early in one's career.

About Winona State University

Winona State University accepts 69% of applicants, balancing access with selectivity, enrolling 5,088 students in Winona, MN.

See all programs and financial aid at Winona State 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 Winona State 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 47/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Sociology at Winona State University?
At 47/100, 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 Winona State 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.
Is Winona State University one of the best schools for Sociology?
Among 414 Sociology programs, Winona State University's #65 position reflects consistently above-average results across earnings, ROI, and employment probability.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →