Sociology at Worcester State University

Worcester, MA · Public · Bachelor's Degree
43 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
44
Optimistic
43
Base Case
41
Pessimistic
Earnings $33,636/yr (-2% vs median)
AI Risk High (42% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (114,800 openings/yr)
ROI 12.1x earnings multiple (7.9x out-of-state)
Ranked #131 of 414 Sociology programs Top 50%

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 $552K $546K $505K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 12.2x 12.1x 11.2x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 7.9x 7.9x 7.3x
Probability of Field Employment 48% 44% 34%
DegreeOutlook Score 44 43 41

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$45,144
Out-of-state: $69,464 (7.9x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$58,952
-31% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$22,500
8.0 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$54,599
62% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

First-year earnings of $33,636 track close to the $34,392 national median for Sociology programs. This is a middle-of-the-road outcome on salary alone.

With a 12.1x 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 $22,500 against $33,636/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

A #131 ranking among 414 Sociology programs places Worcester State University in the middle-to-upper range. Solid, not exceptional.

The $33,636-to-$54,599 earnings arc over five years reflects a 62% gain — well above average career growth for recent graduates.

About Worcester State University

Worcester State University has a 90% acceptance rate, making it broadly accessible, a smaller institution with 3,963 students in Worcester, MA.

See all programs and financial aid at Worcester 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 Worcester State 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 43/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Sociology at Worcester State University?
At 43/100, 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 Worcester 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.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →