Analysis
Based on similar history programs in Minnesota, graduates here can expect first-year earnings around $39,000โa figure that matches the state median and sits well above the national benchmark of $31,000. With an estimated debt load of roughly $26,000, you're looking at a manageable borrowing level that represents about eight months of first-year income. That's reasonable territory for a liberal arts degree, though parents should recognize these projections come from peer institutions rather than Concordia's actual graduate outcomes.
The Minnesota context matters here. The state's history graduates consistently outpace national averages, and Concordia's estimated earnings align with what Minnesota State-Mankato reports. However, other Minnesota programs show the range: UMN-Duluth graduates earn slightly more, while Twin Cities graduates start significantly lower despite the flagship brand. This suggests local job markets and individual career paths matter more than institutional prestige in this field.
The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.66 falls into workable territory, but remember that history degrees often lead to careers requiring graduate school or professional development. If your child plans to teach, pursue public history, or enter fields like law or archives, factor in additional education costs. The initial investment looks sound for Minnesota's job market, but verify that Concordia's specific career outcomes and alumni network align with your child's post-graduation plans before committing.
Where Concordia College at Moorhead Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all history bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Minnesota
History bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Minnesota (28 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $30,020 | $39,186* | โ | $25,946* | โ | |
| $14,318 | $42,297* | โ | $26,743* | 0.63 | |
| $9,490 | $39,186* | $42,443 | $27,000* | 0.69 | |
| $16,488 | $26,635* | $43,487 | $19,500* | 0.73 | |
| National Median | โ | $31,220* | โ | $24,000* | 0.77 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with history graduates
Natural Sciences Managers
Clinical Research Coordinators
History Teachers, Postsecondary
Historians
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
Archivists
Curators
Museum Technicians and Conservators
Managers, All Other
Regulatory Affairs Managers
Compliance Managers
Loss Prevention Managers
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Concordia College at Moorhead, approximately 20% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 3 similar programs in MN. Actual outcomes may vary.