Social Sciences at Tidewater Community College
with a mid-sized student body of 11,797 in Norfolk, VA.
Program Analysis
At $29,425 per year, Social Sciences graduates from Tidewater Community College earn slightly above the $26,524 national median. The premium is real but not dramatic.
Every dollar of tuition returns an estimated 32.2x in decade earnings — an exceptional ratio that places this among the highest-ROI Social Sciences programs nationally.
Some AI exposure exists in Social Sciences's career paths, with 45% of job tasks potentially affected. The pessimistic scenario still projects solid returns, with a 19% gap from the optimistic case.
The median debt load of $9,163 represents less than half a year of starting salary — among the lightest debt-to-income ratios in vocational education.
Ranked #14 of 21 Social Sciences programs, Tidewater Community College falls below the median. Stronger options exist, though cost and location may compensate.
Earnings grow from $29,425 to $36,694 over five years — a 25% increase that's moderate and in line with typical trade career progression.
Social Sciences has a registered apprenticeship option through Health Information Management Privacy And Security Officer with a median wage of $136,550/yr — worth exploring for students who prefer structured on-the-job training.
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 Tidewater Community College
How Does a Bachelor's Degree Compare?
Four-year programs take longer but may unlock different career trajectories. See the data.