Cheapest Sociology Colleges in Maryland

Coppin State University stands out with Maryland's lowest sociology net cost at just $6,007, while Johns Hopkins commands $18,161 despite its elite reputation. This $12,000 gap reflects Maryland's split between budget-friendly public options and high-value private institutions. Public universities dominate the affordable end, with 8 of the 10 cheapest programs coming from state schools. Maryland sociology graduates enter a job market shaped by federal agencies, nonprofits, and research institutions clustered around Washington D.C. The state's proximity to agencies like NIH and think tanks creates demand for social research skills. Earnings vary significantly, from $25,194 at Goucher College to $40,896 at UMBC, showing how institutional connections and program focus affect career outcomes. Graduate debt stays reasonable across most programs, typically ranging from $18,800 to $28,000.

Programs

$6,007 – $29,633

Net Price Range

$33,434

Avg. Program Earnings

58.9%

Avg. Graduation Rate

18 Sociology Programs

Program rankings
#	School	Net Price	In-State Tuition	Graduation Rate	Acceptance Rate
1	Coppin State University Baltimore, Maryland	$6,007	$7,001	25.6%	45.0%
2	University of Maryland Eastern Shore Princess Anne, Maryland	$14,035	$8,898	34.6%	81.6%
3	Morgan State University Baltimore, Maryland	$15,015	$8,118	41.6%	85.4%
4	Washington Adventist University Takoma Park, Maryland	$15,026	$25,200	40.0%	51.4%
5	Frostburg State University Frostburg, Maryland	$15,323	$9,998	52.1%	87.9%
6	University of Maryland-College Park College Park, Maryland	$15,590	$11,505	88.6%	44.6%
7	Salisbury University Salisbury, Maryland	$16,456	$10,638	67.4%	91.1%
8	University of Baltimore Baltimore, Maryland	$17,546	$9,772	46.7%	89.3%
9	Johns Hopkins University Baltimore, Maryland	$18,161	$63,340	94.6%	7.3%
10	University of Maryland-Baltimore County Baltimore, Maryland	$18,328	$12,952	70.6%	80.6%
11	St. Mary's College of Maryland St. Mary's City, Maryland	$18,362	$15,236	68.0%	77.3%
12	Bowie State University Bowie, Maryland	$19,335	$8,999	38.1%	86.5%
13	McDaniel College Westminster, Maryland	$20,923	$49,647	63.8%	82.1%
14	Hood College Frederick, Maryland	$23,707	$45,870	55.3%	77.9%
15	Goucher College Baltimore, Maryland	$23,774	$51,250	60.0%	80.2%
16	Mount St. Mary's University Emmitsburg, Maryland	$24,987	$47,240	58.0%	79.6%
17	Washington College Chestertown, Maryland	$29,095	$54,356	74.1%	74.7%
18	Loyola University Maryland Baltimore, Maryland	$29,633	$55,480	80.5%	83.5%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Coppin State University so affordable for sociology students?

Coppin State University offers the lowest net cost for sociology at $6,007, with in-state tuition of just $7,001. As a public historically black university serving Baltimore, it receives state funding that keeps costs down. The school maintains a 44.95% acceptance rate while focusing on accessible education. However, the 25.60% graduation rate suggests students should carefully consider support systems and academic preparation.

How do public and private sociology programs compare in Maryland?

Public programs average significantly lower costs, with most under $20,000 net price compared to private schools reaching $25,000 or more. Johns Hopkins breaks this pattern at $18,161 net cost despite a $63,340 sticker price through generous aid. Public options like University of Maryland-College Park offer strong value with 88.60% graduation rates and $36,129 median earnings. Private schools often provide smaller class sizes but at substantially higher costs.

Is the University of Maryland-College Park worth the extra cost over cheaper options?

UMD-College Park costs $15,590 net but delivers strong value with an 88.60% graduation rate and $36,129 median earnings. The $9,500 premium over Coppin State translates to significantly better outcomes and career prospects. Students graduate with moderate debt of $18,800 while gaining access to D.C. area networks. The 44.61% acceptance rate makes admission competitive but achievable for qualified students.

Where do Maryland sociology graduates typically find employment?

Maryland's location near Washington D.C. creates opportunities in federal agencies, think tanks, and research institutions. Graduates often work for organizations like NIH, conducting social research or program evaluation. The state's growing biotech and cybersecurity sectors also need sociology expertise for user research and organizational analysis. Earnings range from $25,194 to $40,896 depending on sector and employer type, with government and research positions typically offering higher compensation.

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