History at California State University-Stanislaus

Cal State Stanislaus History graduates earn $38,175 four years out—about $9,500 more than the typical California history major and $7,000 above the national average. That's a meaningful difference for a program serving predominantly working-class students (55% receive Pell grants). At the 60th percentile statewide, this program delivers better-than-median returns while maintaining the practical accessibility of a 97% admission rate.

The financial picture is exceptionally clean. At just $11,656 in median debt—less than half the national norm for history majors—graduates owe only about four months of their first-year salary. This is among the lowest debt loads you'll find for any history program in California, and it means students can accept museum internships, teaching positions, or graduate school without crushing loan payments constraining their choices. The 19% earnings growth from year one to year four suggests graduates gain traction in the job market rather than stalling.

For families weighing whether a history degree makes financial sense, Stanislaus shows it can work: modest debt, earnings that edge above typical outcomes for the major, and a clear path forward. This won't match STEM salaries, but if your child is drawn to history, this program demonstrates you don't need to attend USC or a UC to get solid results.