Best Schools for Sociology and Anthropology

Sociology and Anthropology graduates earn a median of $29,021 within two years of graduation, ranking #237 out of 292 tracked majors — 18% below the median across all fields. There are 10 colleges nationwide with tracked earnings for this major, producing 234 recent graduates.

Where you study matters: Fairfield University graduates earn $38,337 while University of Puget Sound graduates earn $22,578 — a $15,759 difference. Factors like location, employer networks, co-op programs, and curriculum focus drive this gap.

Early career salary growth is moderate: Sociology and Anthropology graduates see an average 6% increase between year 1 and year 2 post-graduation, reflecting career advancement and skill development in the first years after college.

10
Schools
$29,021
Avg. 2yr Earnings
#237
of 292 Majors
234
Graduates

Public vs Private: Sociology and Anthropology

Public (3 schools)
$26,498
avg. 2yr earnings
Private (7 schools)
$30,103
avg. 2yr earnings

Private schools produce $3,605 more in early earnings on average for Sociology and Anthropology graduates. Factor in tuition difference to calculate which offers better ROI.

Sociology and Anthropology by State

Top Sociology and Anthropology Schools by Graduate Earnings

#1
F

Fairfield University

Fairfield, CT · Private

$38,337
2yr Earnings
Acceptance: 45.0%
#2
C

Colgate University

Hamilton, NY · Private

$33,993
2yr Earnings
Acceptance: 11.9%
#3
S

St Olaf College

Northfield, MN · Private

$31,708
2yr Earnings
1yr: $19,528
Grads: 23
Acceptance: 52.1%
#4
R

Roger Williams University

Bristol, RI · Private

$30,771
2yr Earnings
Acceptance: 87.8%
#5
V

Valdosta State University

Valdosta, GA · Public

$29,685
2yr Earnings
1yr: $26,899
Grads: 49
Acceptance: 83.5%
#6
C

Centre College

Danville, KY · Private

$29,685
2yr Earnings
Acceptance: 54.3%
#7
U

University of Illinois Springfield

Springfield, IL · Public

$26,353
2yr Earnings
Acceptance: 84.4%
#8
D

Denison University

Granville, OH · Private

$23,649
2yr Earnings
1yr: $28,362
Grads: 32
Acceptance: 16.9%
#9
C

College of Staten Island CUNY

Staten Island, NY · Public

$23,456
2yr Earnings
1yr: $29,091
Grads: 94
Acceptance: N/A
#10
U

University of Puget Sound

Tacoma, WA · Private

$22,578
2yr Earnings
1yr: $24,431
Grads: 36
Acceptance: 76.3%

Majors with Similar Earnings

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best school for Sociology and Anthropology?
Fairfield University ranks #1 for Sociology and Anthropology with median graduate earnings of $38,337 within two years. There are 10 schools nationwide offering this major with tracked earnings data.
How much do Sociology and Anthropology graduates earn?
Sociology and Anthropology graduates earn an average of $29,021 within two years of graduation. This is 18% below the median across all majors. Earnings range from $22,578 to $38,337 depending on the school.
How hard is it to get into a top Sociology and Anthropology program?
The average acceptance rate across Sociology and Anthropology programs is 56.9%. The most selective program is at Colgate University with a 11.9% acceptance rate. Competitive programs value strong math/analytical skills and relevant coursework.
Is a public or private school better for Sociology and Anthropology?
Private Sociology and Anthropology programs average $30,103 in early earnings vs $26,498 at public schools. Private schools lead in earnings, but cost significantly more — calculate net price before deciding.

Data updated June 2026. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings are median 2 years after graduation for bachelor's degree holders.

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