History at Florida State University

FSU's history program shows a relatively rare pattern: graduates start below both national and state averages at $27,944, but by year four their earnings jump 56% to $43,451—well above what most history programs deliver. This strong income trajectory puts the program at the 60th percentile among Florida history programs, roughly matching middle-tier options like University of Tampa at the one-year mark, but the four-year earnings suggest graduates are finding their footing in careers that value analytical and research skills.

The $19,907 debt load sits below Florida's median for history programs, though it's higher than you'd see at many institutions nationally. With first-year earnings below $28,000, that initial year can feel tight financially, but the rapid earnings growth changes the calculus considerably. For context, FSU is a selective institution (25% admission rate) serving a largely middle-class student body, which may explain why debt stays relatively controlled despite being a four-year residential program.

The practical reality: this isn't a program where your child walks into a $50,000 job at graduation. The first year requires financial planning and possibly living at home or working multiple income streams. But the earnings trajectory is genuinely promising for a humanities degree. If your child is committed to history and willing to navigate lean early years, FSU's program appears to set up graduates for decent mid-term outcomes—just expect to provide some runway.