History at Florida International University

FIU's history program outpaces expectations for the degree, ranking in the 60th percentile among Florida programs and slightly above the national median—a meaningful achievement given that this program serves a substantial population of first-generation college students (40% receive Pell grants). More importantly, graduates see their earnings jump 33% by year four, reaching $42,391, which suggests the degree opens doors even if the first job doesn't immediately reflect its value.

The debt picture is actually favorable compared to peer institutions. At $17,250, graduates owe roughly 30% less than both the national and state medians for history majors, and meaningfully less than most Florida competitors. That modest debt load combined with steady earnings growth creates a manageable financial path—graduates owe about half their starting salary, which should be repayable within standard timeframes.

The tradeoff is straightforward: you're choosing a humanities degree that starts modestly but builds momentum over time. FIU graduates earn more than peers at FSU or University of Tampa while carrying less debt, though they trail the earnings at University of Miami or UCF. For families prioritizing affordability and long-term growth over immediate high earnings, this program delivers on both fronts. The combination of below-average debt and above-average state performance makes this one of the stronger value propositions for history majors in Florida.