History at Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University's history program outperforms most of its peers nationally, with first-year earnings of $37,734 placing it in the 82nd percentile—well above the national median of $31,220. However, within New Hampshire, it falls closer to the middle of the pack at the 60th percentile, trailing considerably behind Dartmouth's $61,127 but leading the University of New Hampshire system. The $31,683 in median debt sits above both state and national medians, though the 0.84 debt-to-earnings ratio remains manageable, meaning graduates earn slightly more than their debt load in their first year.

What makes this program notable is the combination of strong earning power relative to history programs nationwide and consistent income growth—earnings jump 16% to $43,759 by year four. For a highly accessible institution (96% admission rate) serving a substantial population of Pell Grant students, these outcomes suggest the program provides genuine economic mobility. The debt premium appears justified by the earnings advantage, especially when compared to the typical history graduate who starts at just $31,220.

If your child is set on studying history and needs a supportive environment, this program delivers competitive outcomes without the pressure of elite admissions. The key question is whether they're committed to leveraging a history degree in the job market—those who do appear to fare reasonably well here.