History at California State University-Channel Islands

This program's first-year earnings of $24,134 rank among the lowest in the nation for history degrees—5th percentile nationally and just 25th percentile within California, where the median graduate earns $28,718. That's a significant gap even among in-state peers. While the 96% earnings growth to $47,393 by year four is impressive, that initial year appears to reflect many graduates working part-time or in roles that don't require a degree at all. The relatively low debt of $17,854 (below California's $16,304 median but still meaningful) does provide some cushion during that difficult first year.

The wider concern is that comparable California State schools like Northridge and San Diego State show their history graduates earning $37,000-$38,000 just one year out—50% more than Channel Islands. Even after four years of growth, Channel Islands graduates are still trailing many peers' first-year outcomes. Given that 47% of students here receive Pell grants, these weaker labor market outcomes could hit families particularly hard who are counting on immediate post-graduation income.

If your child is set on history at a CSU campus, the debt burden here is manageable, but recognize they'll likely need financial support during that first year and should have concrete plans for graduate school or career pivots that justify the delayed earnings. The four-year numbers suggest graduates eventually find their footing, but the path there is rougher than at other state universities.