Analysis
In Nebraska, history programs produce starting salaries that cluster tightly—with comparable programs suggesting around $36,400 for new graduates. That places this program solidly at the state median, which is notably above the $31,200 national benchmark for history majors. The estimated debt load of about $26,000, however, runs higher than Nebraska's typical $20,500 for history degrees.
The 0.71 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates would owe roughly nine months' salary, which is manageable compared to many liberal arts programs. Similar programs across the state show this earning potential holds steady whether you're at UN-Kearney ($39,340) or UN-Lincoln ($33,013), suggesting Nebraska's job market for history graduates offers relatively consistent outcomes. The real question becomes whether the additional $5,500 in debt compared to state peers translates into advantages like smaller class sizes or stronger alumni networks at Midland.
For parents weighing this investment, the fundamentals look workable—the debt isn't crushing and the earnings match state expectations. But with limited graduate data available for this specific program, you're making a decision based on what similar Nebraska history programs deliver rather than Midland's proven track record. If your student is committed to history, the program won't saddle them with unmanageable debt, but investigate what justifies the higher borrowing compared to state alternatives.
Where Midland University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all history bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Nebraska
History bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Nebraska (15 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $40,270 | $36,401* | — | $25,946* | — | |
| $8,302 | $39,340* | — | $18,250* | 0.46 | |
| $8,370 | $36,401* | $44,840 | $21,500* | 0.59 | |
| $10,108 | $33,013* | $40,161 | $20,500* | 0.62 | |
| National Median | — | $31,220* | — | $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 Midland University, approximately 28% 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 NE. Actual outcomes may vary.