History at Kent State University at Kent

Kent State's history graduates start modestly at $28,476 but see their earnings jump 34% by year four—a notably steeper climb than typical for humanities majors. While first-year earnings land below the national median, they outpace most Ohio history programs, ranking in the 60th percentile statewide. By year four, graduates are earning $38,221, approaching the level of Cincinnati and Miami University grads who started ahead. The debt load of $27,000 is exceptionally manageable, ranking in just the 5th percentile nationally (meaning 95% of history programs saddle students with more debt).

The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.95 means graduates owe less than one year's starting salary—rare territory for humanities degrees. This appears to be a program where career momentum builds steadily rather than plateauing immediately, which matters for liberal arts majors who often need time to translate their skills into competitive positions. The moderate sample size suggests these outcomes are reasonably reliable, not statistical flukes.

For parents worried about their child majoring in history, this program offers a relatively low-risk path: lighter debt than peers would carry elsewhere, respectable standing among Ohio schools, and encouraging evidence that graduates gain traction in the job market rather than stalling out. The investment won't immediately match STEM-field returns, but the trajectory and manageable debt make it a defensible choice for students genuinely drawn to the field.