History at Minnesota State University-Mankato

Minnesota State University-Mankato's history program significantly outperforms most programs nationally, placing graduates in the 87th percentile for earnings—nearly $8,000 above the national median. The $39,186 starting salary lands right at Minnesota's state median, suggesting this program delivers solid middle-of-the-pack outcomes for the region. Perhaps more importantly, graduates carry just $27,000 in debt, which lands in the 5th percentile nationally (meaning 95% of programs burden students with more). This debt level is actually below the state average and creates a manageable 0.69 debt-to-earnings ratio.

The earnings trajectory shows modest but steady growth to $42,443 by year four—not dramatic, but enough to keep pace with UMN-Duluth graduates who start slightly higher. For an accessible state university with a 91% admission rate, these outcomes compare favorably to more selective options. The University of Minnesota-Twin Cities may offer more prestige, but their history grads actually earn less initially.

The main caveat here is sample size—fewer than 30 graduates means these numbers could shift year to year. Still, the combination of strong national performance, reasonable debt, and earnings that match the state standard makes this a financially sensible choice for Minnesota families. You're getting competitive outcomes without the debt burden that typically accompanies history degrees.