Social Sciences at Northern Virginia Community College
serving a student body of 31,737 in Annandale, VA.
Program Analysis
Graduates earn $23,637/yr, roughly in line with the $26,524 national median for Social Sciences. The value proposition here depends on cost, not earnings.
The 33.6x earnings multiple means ten-year projected earnings exceed tuition cost by an order of magnitude. Trade programs often deliver strong ratios, and this one is a standout.
AI exposure is significant at 45% of job tasks, producing a 40% spread between best and worst-case decade earnings. The field isn't immune to disruption.
With first-year pay of $23,637 far exceeding the $9,750 median debt, the payback timeline is measured in months, not years.
At #18 out of 21 programs, Northern Virginia Community College's financial outcomes for Social Sciences trail the majority of peers. The value case depends on other factors.
Earnings growth from $23,637 to $48,149 over five years (104% increase) indicates that graduates in this trade see meaningful salary progression.
One registered apprenticeship pathway (Health Information Management Privacy And Security Officer with a median wage of $136,550/yr) connects to Social Sciences careers, offering a paid training alternative to the classroom model.
Earnings Overview
Projected 10-Year Earnings
Based on actual graduate salary data and Bureau of Labor Statistics growth projections.
Top Career Paths
Top career paths for Social Sciences graduates by median salary.
| Career Path | Median Salary | Growth | AI-ProofAI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Managers, all other | $136,550 | +4.5% | 53% |
| Statisticians | $103,300 | +8.5% | 34% |
| Sociologists | $101,690 | +3.6% | 46% |
Social Sciences Career Guide
From day-one roles to senior positions, Social Sciences careers span a range of specializations. Read the complete outlook for graduates entering other programs.
Compare & Explore
Social Sciences Overview
Social Sciences at Other Schools
Other Majors at Northern Virginia Community College
Explore the Degree Alternative
Not sure if a trade program or four-year degree fits better? Compare both paths.