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University of North Alabama delivers the state's most affordable sociology program at just $11,024 net cost, while private options like Birmingham-Southern College reach $23,351. This $12,000 gap reflects Alabama's public university system strength in social sciences education. The 18 sociology programs span from small liberal arts colleges to major research universities, with graduation rates varying dramatically from 28% to 74%. Alabama's growing aerospace and automotive sectors create unexpected opportunities for sociology graduates in workforce development and community relations. Companies like Hyundai and NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center increasingly value social science perspectives for understanding varied workforces and community impact. Most programs maintain high acceptance rates above 80%, making admission accessible while costs remain manageable through the Alabama Student Grant Program.
18
Programs
$11,024 – $32,977
Net Price Range
$26,730
Avg. Program Earnings
56.2%
Avg. Graduation Rate

18 Sociology Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $11,024 $11,990 54.0% 95.7%
2 $13,461 $15,650 65.0%
3 $13,832 $10,990 38.0% 68.9%
4 $13,869 $9,792 46.8% 94.8%
5 $14,559 $10,024 28.7% 68.4%
6 $14,596 $9,436 35.7% 92.2%
7 $14,850 $12,426 51.1% 78.5%
8 $15,142 $9,676 52.6% 65.4%
9 $17,053 $13,710 49.4% 59.8%
10 $17,727 $8,832 62.4% 86.7%
11 $19,514 $23,270 56.1% 72.6%
12 $19,603 $26,120 55.5% 84.1%
13 $19,880 $11,770 61.9% 78.1%
14 $22,150 $11,900 73.7% 80.1%
15 $23,351 $22,750 64.2% 57.2%
16 $23,897 $12,536 79.2% 43.7%
17 $30,795 $38,144 79.9% 83.3%
18 $32,977 $23,440 57.1% 29.7%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the huge cost difference between Alabama's cheapest and most expensive sociology programs?

Public universities dominate the affordable end, with University of North Alabama at $11,024 and Troy University at $13,869. Private institutions like Birmingham-Southern College cost $23,351, reflecting smaller class sizes and different funding models. The $12,000+ gap shows how choosing public over private can cut sociology education costs in half while maintaining quality outcomes.

How do graduation rates vary among Alabama's most affordable sociology programs?

The data reveals surprising variation, with Alabama A&M University graduating just 29% of students despite low $14,559 costs. University of Alabama Birmingham achieves 62% graduation rates at $17,727, while University of North Alabama maintains 54% at the lowest cost statewide. Price doesn't predict success, making school selection important beyond affordability alone.

Where do sociology graduates from these programs typically find employment in Alabama?

Early career earnings range from $20,140 to $36,560, reflecting Alabama's varied economy. Aerospace companies like Airbus and automotive manufacturers such as Hyundai hire sociology graduates for human resources and community outreach roles. Government agencies and nonprofits also provide steady employment, particularly around Huntsville's research corridor and Birmingham's urban center.

Does attending University of Alabama justify the higher cost compared to regional alternatives?

Alabama's flagship program costs $22,150 but delivers the state's highest graduation rate at 74% among sociology programs. Regional universities like University of West Alabama cost $13,832 but graduate only 38% of students. The $8,000 premium translates to significantly better completion odds and potential alumni network advantages in Alabama's job market.

Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.