Analysis
Rutgers-Camden history graduates start at $33,763—exactly matching the New Jersey median—but then something notable happens: earnings jump 45% to $49,001 by year four, vaulting past every other history program in the state except Monmouth and Rider. While Princeton's history graduates earn more initially, Rutgers-Camden's trajectory suggests graduates are finding their footing in careers that value the research, writing, and analytical skills the program builds.
The debt picture looks reasonable at $21,728, lower than both the state and national medians. That 0.64 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates owe less than eight months of their starting salary—manageable territory, especially given where earnings head by year four. The school serves a significant number of Pell-eligible students (44%), and these outcomes suggest the program delivers on its promise without burying graduates in debt.
For families worried about the "what can you do with a history degree" question, this data tells a reassuring story. The strong earnings growth indicates graduates aren't stuck in entry-level positions—they're advancing into roles where humanities skills command real value. Among New Jersey's 26 history programs, this sits comfortably in the middle tier for immediate outcomes but competes with elite programs once graduates gain experience.
Where Rutgers University-Camden Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all history bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Rutgers University-Camden graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rutgers University-Camden | $33,763 | $49,001 | +45% |
| The College of New Jersey | $26,218 | $56,930 | +117% |
| Kean University | $34,934 | $51,125 | +46% |
| Montclair State University | $31,607 | $49,923 | +58% |
| Monmouth University | $48,482 | $49,871 | +3% |
Compare to Similar Programs in New Jersey
History bachelors's programs at peer institutions in New Jersey (26 total in state)
Scroll to see more →
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $17,079 | $33,763 | $49,001 | $21,728 | 0.64 | |
| $44,850 | $48,482 | $49,871 | $27,000 | 0.56 | |
| $38,900 | $46,393 | $48,109 | $27,000 | 0.58 | |
| $59,710 | $45,363 | — | — | — | |
| $13,971 | $40,919 | $46,235 | $25,629 | 0.63 | |
| $15,700 | $35,150 | $42,902 | $25,500 | 0.73 | |
| 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 Rutgers University-Camden, approximately 44% 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.
Sample Size: Based on 161 graduates with reported earnings and 219 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.