Compare 9 Sociology. programs in Minnesota. Average earnings: $40,320.
The highest-earning Sociology program isn't at the most prestigious school. With a $18K earnings gap across 9 programs, the data confirms: program-level factors drive outcomes more than institutional brand.
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities leads with Sociology graduates earning $50,586, well above the state average of $40,320. Minnesota State University Moorhead follows at $49,414, demonstrating how regional publics compete with flagship programs. The gap between top and bottom performers spans $17,661.
High earnings don't tell the whole story — debt burden matters. University of Minnesota-Twin Cities graduates borrow $19,500 and face just a 9.5% payment burden, landing in the 'Good' category. For families considering parent loans, Minnesota State University Moorhead offers the best deal with a 16.1% family burden.
Highest program earnings: $50,586
Strong outcomes with 77% acceptance
9.5% payment burden | Good
16.1% family burden | Manageable
| Rank | School | Program Earnings | Cohort Size | Student Debt | Student GPS | Parent Debt | Parent GPS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | $50,586 | 84 | $19,500 | Good | $25,729 | Challenging | |
| #2 | $49,414 | 15 | $20,000 | Good | $10,000 | Manageable | |
| #3 | Hamline UniversityPrivate | $43,450 | 15 | $23,770 | Manageable | $22,739 | High |
| #4 | Winona State UniversityPublic | $41,763 | 17 | $21,500 | Manageable | $19,316 | High |
| #5 | $40,199 | 20 | $21,106 | Manageable | $13,695 | High | |
| #6 | $36,134 | 11 | $22,024 | Challenging | $22,127 | High | |
| #7 | Gustavus Adolphus CollegePrivate | $34,413 | 6 | $26,774 | High | $34,265 | High |
| #8 | Augsburg UniversityPrivate | $33,993 | 11 | $25,347 | High | $17,901 | High |
| #9 | $32,925 | 6 | $20,500 | High | $11,750 | High |
Our program rankings answer: "Which schools have the best outcomes for graduates of this specific major?"
Unlike traditional rankings that measure overall school quality, these rankings focus on program-level outcomes. A school that's #200 overall might have a top-10 nursing program — and that matters if you're studying nursing.
Data based on 2024-2025 Dept of Education reporting standards. Learn about our methodology →
