Rankings / Social Mobility

Best Social Mobility Colleges for Social Sciences

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 50 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$85,665

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

89%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$22,196

Avg. Net Price

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When it comes to choosing a college, particularly for social sciences, social mobility is a key factor that many families consider. These top institutions not only provide robust academic programs but also show strong outcomes for graduates in terms of earnings and debt. For example, graduates from these schools can expect an average earning of $88,052.

What sets these schools apart from others is their focus on social mobility through accessible education. Metrics like graduation rates, student debt, and post-graduation earnings play a significant role in this ranking. The institutions listed below excel in helping students from diverse backgrounds succeed, making them valuable options for those pursuing social sciences.

Take Princeton University and Vanderbilt University, for instance. Princeton graduates earn an impressive average of $110,066, significantly higher than Vanderbilt's $91,565. However, Vanderbilt has a lower net price at $15,846 compared to Princeton's $6,128. This highlights the trade-offs students may face while weighing their options in this list.

Key Findings

Princeton University graduates earn an average of $110,066.

Stanford University has a graduation rate of 92%, while the average across these schools is 90%.

Vanderbilt University's net price is $15,846, lower than many peers in the list.

The average debt for graduates from these schools is $12,000.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $85,665

Avg. graduation rate 89%

Avg. net price $22,196

Avg. median debt $15,213

How We Ranked

Ranked by social mobility with program concentration in Social Sciences

Read our full methodology →

Earnings vs. Cost

Each dot is a ranked school. Up = higher earnings. Right = higher cost. Top-left is the best value.

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

Top 3

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ

Graduation97%

Earnings$110,066

Net Price$6,128

View full profile →

Stanford University

Stanford, CA

Graduation92%

Earnings$124,080

Net Price$13,807

View full profile →

University of Chicago

Chicago, IL

Graduation95%

Earnings$91,885

Net Price$14,860

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ · 5,709 students · Private nonprofit

With a remarkable graduation rate of 97%, Princeton University is known for its focus on undergraduate education and a close-knit academic community. The small student body of 5,709 allows for personalized attention from professors and a vibrant campus life that encourages collaboration and exploration.

5% accepted 97% graduate $110,066 earnings

Princeton's full profile

Stanford University

Stanford, CA · 7,554 students · Private nonprofit

Stanford University is a powerhouse of innovation and research, nestled in the heart of Silicon Valley. With 7,554 students and a 92% graduation rate, it fosters a culture of creativity and entrepreneurship, where students are encouraged to pursue groundbreaking ideas and connect with industry leaders.

4% accepted 92% graduate $124,080 earnings

Stanford's full profile

University of Chicago

Chicago, IL · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

The University of Chicago offers a rigorous liberal arts education that attracts intellectually curious students from all walks of life. With a graduation rate of 95%, it emphasizes critical thinking and interdisciplinary studies, creating a stimulating environment for learning and discovery among its 7,569 students.

4% accepted 95% graduate $91,885 earnings

University's full profile

Harvard University

Cambridge, MA · 7,601 students · Private nonprofit

Harvard University, located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, has long been synonymous with academic excellence and leadership. With a 97% graduation rate and a student body of 7,601, it attracts individuals who are passionate about their fields and eager to engage in meaningful conversations that shape the future.

4% accepted 97% graduate $101,817 earnings

Harvard's full profile

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN · 7,208 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 93%, Vanderbilt University in Nashville is known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life. The median earnings for graduates ten years after enrollment are an impressive $91,565, suggesting that students leave well-prepared for their careers in various fields.

6% accepted 93% graduate $91,565 earnings

Vanderbilt's full profile

Brown University

Providence, RI · 7,226 students · Private nonprofit

Brown University in Providence is renowned for its open curriculum, allowing students to shape their education in a way that fits their passions. With a graduation rate of 96%, students thrive here, and many go on to earn a median income of $93,487 ten years after graduation, reflecting the university's commitment to academic excellence and student success.

5% accepted 96% graduate $93,487 earnings

Wellesley College

Wellesley, MA · 2,300 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 91%, Wellesley College cultivates a strong sense of community and academic rigor among its 2,300 students. The school’s commitment to empowering women is palpable, and its graduates earn a median salary of $84,803 just ten years after leaving campus, a testament to the quality of education they receive.

14% accepted 91% graduate $84,803 earnings

Wellesley's full profile

Bowdoin College

Brunswick, ME · 1,873 students · Private nonprofit

Bowdoin College, nestled in Brunswick, ME, has a graduation rate of 95%, which speaks to its supportive academic environment. Graduates earn a median of $82,735 within ten years, suggesting solid career outcomes for those who complete their studies.

7% accepted 95% graduate $82,735 earnings

Bowdoin's full profile

Dartmouth College

Hanover, NH · 4,541 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 96%, Dartmouth College in Hanover, NH, supports its students in achieving their degrees with strong resources and a close-knit community. The median earnings for graduates reach $97,434 within a decade, suggesting that a Dartmouth education pays off significantly in the job market.

5% accepted 96% graduate $97,434 earnings

Dartmouth's full profile

#10

Williams College

Williamstown, MA · 2,076 students · Private nonprofit

Williams College, nestled in Williamstown, MA, is known for its close-knit community and personalized education, supported by a 95% graduation rate. Graduates can expect to earn a median income of $88,665 ten years after completing their studies, highlighting the value of a Williams education in the job market.

8% accepted 95% graduate $88,665 earnings

Williams's full profile

#11

Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, MD · 5,693 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Baltimore, MD, Johns Hopkins University is renowned for its research programs and commitment to innovation. The school has a graduation rate of 94%, and its graduates enjoy impressive median earnings of $87,555 ten years after enrollment, reflecting the value of a degree from this institution.

6% accepted 94% graduate $87,555 earnings

University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA · 10,650 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Philadelphia, the University of Pennsylvania is a hub for innovation and research, making it an attractive choice for ambitious students. A remarkable 97% of students graduate, and those who do earn median salaries of $111,371 a decade later, showcasing the school's strong career support and network.

5% accepted 97% graduate $111,371 earnings

University's full profile

#13

Claremont McKenna College

Claremont, CA · 1,388 students · Private nonprofit

Claremont McKenna College is known for its strong focus on economics, government, and public affairs, making it an attractive option for students interested in leadership and social impact. With a graduation rate of 93% and median earnings of $104,736 at ten years, students can expect a solid return on their investment in education.

10% accepted 93% graduate $104,736 earnings

Claremont's full profile

#14

Yale University

New Haven, CT · 6,758 students · Private nonprofit

With a striking graduation rate of 96%, Yale University is a place where students not only enroll but thrive. The median earnings of graduates at 10 years reach $100,533, reflecting the school's strong emphasis on academic excellence and career preparation.

4% accepted 96% graduate $100,533 earnings

Columbia University in the City of New York

New York, NY · 8,973 students · Private nonprofit

Columbia University is a prestigious institution with a 96% graduation rate, situated in the vibrant heart of New York City. With nearly 9,000 students, it offers a diverse and dynamic educational experience that prepares graduates for high-earning careers, as evidenced by a median salary of $102,491 ten years after graduation.

4% accepted 96% graduate $102,491 earnings

Columbia's full profile

#16

Colby College

Waterville, ME · 2,407 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Waterville, Maine, Colby College offers a unique blend of rigorous academics and a supportive community. With an 89% graduation rate, students here are well-equipped for the future, with median earnings of $80,490 after ten years, demonstrating positive outcomes for graduates.

7% accepted 89% graduate $80,490 earnings

Georgetown University

Washington, DC · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

Located in the heart of Washington, DC, Georgetown University connects students with a wealth of opportunities in politics, business, and international relations. With a graduation rate of 95%, students here are well-prepared for a competitive job market, achieving median earnings of $103,494 after ten years.

13% accepted 95% graduate $103,494 earnings

Georgetown's full profile

#18

Colgate University

Hamilton, NY · 3,180 students · Private nonprofit

With a 91% graduation rate, Colgate University in Hamilton, NY, showcases a strong commitment to student success. The median earnings of $85,139 after ten years suggest that graduates are well-prepared to thrive in their careers, reflecting the university's quality education and supportive environment.

14% accepted 91% graduate $85,139 earnings

Colgate's full profile

#19

Rice University

Houston, TX · 4,776 students · Private nonprofit

Rice University in Houston is an academic powerhouse, evident in its impressive 95% graduation rate. With 4,776 students, the university fosters an intimate learning atmosphere where innovation thrives, as reflected in its graduates earning $89,718 median salary ten years post-graduation.

8% accepted 95% graduate $89,718 earnings

Amherst College

Amherst, MA · 1,911 students · Private nonprofit

Amherst College offers an intimate learning environment with a remarkable 94% graduation rate. The median earnings of $77,644 after ten years indicate that graduates are equipped to enter competitive fields, supported by a dedicated faculty and a strong sense of community on campus.

9% accepted 94% graduate $77,644 earnings

Amherst's full profile

#21

Pomona College

Claremont, CA · 1,666 students · Private nonprofit

Pomona College, nestled in Claremont, California, offers a vibrant liberal arts education with a graduation rate of 93%. The intimate setting of this private nonprofit college fosters close relationships between students and professors, which enhances the learning experience. With only 1,666 students, it provides a tight-knit community where academic collaboration flourishes and personal growth is encouraged.

7% accepted 93% graduate $77,779 earnings

Pomona's full profile

#22

Cornell University

Ithaca, NY · 15,995 students · Private nonprofit

Cornell University, located in Ithaca, New York, features a robust 95% graduation rate among its 15,995 students. Known for its diverse programs and research opportunities, graduates earn a median salary of $104,043 a decade after they leave, indicating strong career prospects across various fields.

9% accepted 95% graduate $104,043 earnings

Cornell's full profile

#23

Duke University

Durham, NC · 6,442 students · Private nonprofit

Duke University in Durham, NC, garners attention with a strong 96% graduation rate and median earnings of $97,800 for graduates ten years post-enrollment. This combination suggests that Duke graduates are well-prepared for the workforce and achieve considerable financial success.

6% accepted 96% graduate $97,800 earnings

Davidson College

Davidson, NC · 1,867 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 91%, Davidson College emphasizes academic excellence and a close-knit community. This private nonprofit school in North Carolina not only cultivates leadership but also encourages students to think critically and engage with the world around them. The low acceptance rate of 13% reflects its commitment to maintaining a selective and dedicated student body.

13% accepted 91% graduate $81,400 earnings

Davidson's full profile

#25

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC · 20,752 students · Public

With a graduation rate of 92%, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill demonstrates a strong commitment to student success. The campus culture is vibrant, driven by a diverse student body of over 20,000, where students engage in everything from research to athletics. It's a place where many find their passion, with median earnings of $72,200 a decade after graduation suggesting that a degree from UNC can lead to solid financial footing.

15% accepted 92% graduate $72,200 earnings

University's full profile

#26

CUNY Hunter College

New York, NY · 16,289 students · Public

Located in the bustling heart of New York City, CUNY Hunter College attracts over 16,000 students seeking a vibrant urban education. With a graduation rate of 59%, many students find a supportive community that fosters academic and personal growth, leading to median earnings of $63,163 within a decade of graduation.

54% accepted 59% graduate $63,163 earnings

Northwestern University

Evanston, IL · 9,201 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Evanston, IL, Northwestern University boasts a 96% graduation rate, highlighting its dedication to student achievement. Graduates earn a median of $89,363 within ten years, showcasing the university's strong academic programs and the career opportunities that come with a Northwestern degree.

8% accepted 96% graduate $89,363 earnings

Northwestern's full profile

#28

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College

New York, NY · 16,154 students · Public

Located in the heart of New York City, CUNY Bernard M Baruch College has a diverse student body of over 16,000 students. Known for its strong focus on business and public affairs, Baruch cultivates an engaging academic atmosphere that prepares students for success in a competitive job market. The college's graduation rate of 72% suggests a solid commitment to student achievement despite the challenges of urban life.

48% accepted 72% graduate $75,971 earnings

Haverford College

Haverford, PA · 1,430 students · Private nonprofit

Haverford College is known for its close-knit community and commitment to academic integrity, with a graduation rate of 90%. The college emphasizes critical thinking and collaboration, attracting students who are eager to engage deeply both in and out of the classroom. The median earnings for graduates after ten years, at $79,966, reflect the strong outcomes of its liberal arts education.

12% accepted 90% graduate $79,966 earnings

Haverford's full profile

#30

Swarthmore College

Swarthmore, PA · 1,613 students · Private nonprofit

Swarthmore College represents an elite educational experience with a remarkable 93% graduation rate. Graduates can expect median earnings of $80,257 within ten years, reflecting the school's commitment to academic excellence and the opportunities it creates for its students.

7% accepted 93% graduate $80,257 earnings

Swarthmore's full profile

#31

CUNY Queens College

Queens, NY · 12,550 students · Public

CUNY Queens College presents an affordable path to higher education in the heart of New York City. With over 12,500 students, the college provides a diverse atmosphere where students can connect and learn from each other, preparing them for a variety of career paths.

64% accepted 56% graduate $62,763 earnings

Bates College

Lewiston, ME · 1,760 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 90%, Bates College in Lewiston, Maine, reflects a strong commitment to student success. The intimate environment of around 1,760 students allows for personalized attention and a vibrant campus community where students can thrive both academically and socially.

13% accepted 90% graduate $69,498 earnings

Washington University in St Louis

St. Louis, MO · 7,857 students · Private nonprofit

Washington University in St. Louis attracts students with its impressive graduation rate of 94%, reflecting a commitment to academic excellence and student support. With a population of nearly 8,000, this private university offers a personalized educational experience in a collaborative environment. Graduates can expect median earnings of $86,182 after ten years, underscoring the school’s strong reputation in various fields and its effective career preparation.

12% accepted 94% graduate $86,182 earnings

Washington's full profile

#34

Lafayette College

Easton, PA · 2,757 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Easton, Pennsylvania, Lafayette College offers a rigorous education with a graduation rate of 88%. The school prides itself on a strong sense of community and personalized learning, which resonates with its students. Graduates see median earnings of $91,410 after ten years, a testament to the quality of education and career preparation they receive here.

31% accepted 88% graduate $91,410 earnings

Lafayette's full profile

#35

William & Mary

Williamsburg, VA · 7,055 students · Public

With a graduation rate of 90%, William & Mary is a solid choice for students seeking a rigorous academic environment that fosters success. Located in the historic town of Williamsburg, Virginia, this public university emphasizes a strong liberal arts curriculum while also being known for its research opportunities and vibrant campus life.

34% accepted 90% graduate $73,490 earnings

William's full profile

#36

University of Florida

Gainesville, FL · 35,629 students · Public

At the University of Florida, nearly 36,000 students benefit from a diverse range of academic programs, with a graduation rate of 91%. This large public university is known for its vibrant campus life and extensive research opportunities, making it a magnet for students interested in innovation and discovery. The median earnings of $71,588 a decade after graduation illustrate the solid career paths that graduates can expect, reflecting the institution's focus on preparing students for the workforce.

24% accepted 91% graduate $71,588 earnings

University's full profile

#37

Middlebury College

Middlebury, VT · 2,738 students · Private nonprofit

11% accepted 92% graduate $76,310 earnings

Middlebury's full profile

#38

Barnard College

New York, NY · 3,264 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 93%, Barnard College in New York City has a strong track record of supporting its students to complete their degrees. This women’s college, affiliated with Columbia University, provides an empowering environment where students are encouraged to pursue academic excellence and leadership roles. Graduates earn a median income of $80,516 within ten years, reflecting the value of a Barnard education in today’s job market.

9% accepted 93% graduate $80,516 earnings

Barnard's full profile

#39

Hamilton College

Clinton, NY · 2,030 students · Private nonprofit

14% accepted 91% graduate $78,411 earnings

Hamilton's full profile

#40

University of Virginia's College at Wise

Wise, VA · 1,101 students · Public

29% accepted 48% graduate $45,325 earnings

University's full profile

#41

Boston College

Chestnut Hill, MA · 10,085 students · Private nonprofit

Boston College, located in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, attracts students with its commitment to academic excellence and community engagement. With a graduation rate of 91% and a student body of about 10,085, it provides an environment where students can thrive both intellectually and socially, backed by a strong alumni network.

16% accepted 91% graduate $103,937 earnings

Boston's full profile

#42

Grinnell College

Grinnell, IA · 1,729 students · Private nonprofit

15% accepted 88% graduate $62,830 earnings

Grinnell's full profile

#43

Washington and Lee University

Lexington, VA · 1,881 students · Private nonprofit

Washington and Lee University, with a graduation rate of 94%, cultivates an intellectually rigorous atmosphere where students thrive. With just under 2,000 students, the small community fosters close relationships between faculty and peers, enhancing both academic and personal growth. The median earnings of $94,810 ten years post-graduation reflect the value of a degree from this institution, indicating strong career prospects and successful alumni.

14% accepted 94% graduate $94,810 earnings

Washington's full profile

#44

CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice

New York, NY · 11,590 students · Public

57% accepted 56% graduate $56,195 earnings

George Washington University

Washington, DC · 11,182 students · Private nonprofit

47% accepted 85% graduate $90,873 earnings

George's full profile

#46

Colorado College

Colorado Springs, CO · 2,014 students · Private nonprofit

18% accepted 87% graduate $65,222 earnings

Colorado's full profile

#47

Tufts University

Medford, MA · 7,061 students · Private nonprofit

11% accepted 93% graduate $83,214 earnings

Emory University

Atlanta, GA · 7,298 students · Private nonprofit

11% accepted 91% graduate $80,137 earnings

Smith College

Northampton, MA · 2,544 students · Private nonprofit

21% accepted 89% graduate $64,027 earnings

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA · 7,304 students · Private nonprofit

At Carnegie Mellon University, students find an intellectually stimulating environment with a remarkable graduation rate of 93%. This private nonprofit institution in Pittsburgh is renowned for its programs in technology and the arts, attracting ambitious students eager to excel in their chosen fields while benefiting from a close-knit community.

12% accepted 93% graduate $114,862 earnings

Carnegie's full profile

One notable pattern in the data is the difference in earnings between graduates of Princeton University and those from the University of Chicago. While Princeton graduates earn an average of $110,066, the University of Chicago's graduates earn $91,885. This disparity underscores how the choice of institution can significantly impact a student's financial future, especially in the social sciences field.

After reviewing the ranking, consider what matters most to you beyond the numbers. Think about factors like location, program fit, and campus culture, which can greatly influence your college experience and personal growth. It's essential to weigh these aspects alongside the financial metrics to find the best fit for your needs.

Ultimately, this data reflects the critical link between education and economic stability. A college degree, especially from a school focused on social mobility, can pave the way for a promising future. Families need to take a close look at these figures and consider how they align with their own educational and financial goals.

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card

Social Capital Atlas

Times Higher Education World Rankings

NCES IPEDS

Sources & Citations

[1]

Chetty, R., Friedman, J., Saez, E., Turner, N., & Yagan, D. (2017). Mobility Report Cards: The Role of Colleges in Intergenerational Mobility. NBER Working Paper No. 23618. →

[2]

Chetty, R., Jackson, M., Kuchler, T., et al. (2022). Social Capital I: Measurement and Associations with Economic Mobility. Nature, 608, 108-121. →

[3]

U.S. Department of Education. College Scorecard Data. Federal Student Aid, National Center for Education Statistics. →

David Krug

Co-Founder, CollegeRanker

David Krug is the co-founder of CollegeRanker and a data systems architect focused on making institutional research accessible to families. He builds the data pipelines and ranking algorithms that power CollegeRanker, drawing from federal datasets and Raj Chetty's Opportunity Insights research to measure what traditional rankings ignore: whether a college actually changes a family's economic trajectory.

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