History at Roger Williams University

Four years out, Roger Williams history graduates earn $46,740—a figure that outpaces both the national median ($31,220) and the state average for this major. The estimated debt of $25,946 creates a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.68, meaning graduates would owe roughly eight months of their first-year salary. While both the initial earnings estimate and debt figure come from comparable programs rather than reported outcomes for Roger Williams specifically, the four-year earnings data is actual and suggests the program delivers solid mid-career positioning.

The trajectory matters here. Similar Rhode Island history programs suggest starting earnings around $38,000, but by year four, Roger Williams graduates are earning nearly $9,000 more. That puts them in competitive range with Brown ($42,296) and Providence College ($41,923) graduates, though those programs likely start stronger out of the gate. The moderate debt load—close to national norms for history degrees—won't constrain career choices the way heavier borrowing might.

For a history major at a school with an 88% admission rate, these outcomes are encouraging. The real risk is that first year: if actual starting salaries fall below the state estimate, new graduates may struggle initially even if earnings improve later. If your child is committed to this field and Roger Williams feels like the right fit, the four-year data suggests it's a reasonable investment, but confirm financial aid packages carefully since the debt figure is estimated from peer institutions.