History at California State Polytechnic University-Pomona

Cal Poly Pomona's history program starts at just $25,728 in first-year earnings—about $3,000 below California's median for history graduates—but rebounds strongly to $43,636 by year four. That 70% earnings growth is impressive and pulls graduates well above both state and national medians within a few years. While this program ranks only in the 40th percentile among California history programs initially, the trajectory suggests graduates find their footing in the job market fairly quickly.

The financial picture here is notably better than the national norm. At $15,000 in median debt, graduates owe roughly half what typical history majors nationwide carry ($24,000) and face a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio that improves dramatically as salaries climb. For families worried about college affordability—particularly relevant given that 46% of students here receive Pell grants—this combination of modest debt and strong earnings growth should ease concerns.

The first year will be tight financially, and parents should understand their child may need support during that initial period. But by year four, graduates are out-earning three-quarters of history majors nationally. For a Cal State price point, that's a reasonable return, especially for students pursuing teaching credentials, graduate school, or careers where humanities skills eventually pay dividends.