History at Southwest Minnesota State University

Based on similar history programs in Minnesota, graduates typically start around $39,000—a figure that exceeds the national median for history majors by roughly 25%. Minnesota's public universities seem to produce stronger early outcomes in this field than many other states, though you'll notice wide variation even among MN schools, with first-year earnings ranging from about $27,000 to $42,000.

The estimated debt load of $26,743 creates a manageable 0.68 debt-to-earnings ratio, meaning graduates would owe about eight months' worth of their first-year salary. This falls within the range financial aid counselors consider reasonable, particularly for a liberal arts degree where career trajectories often build gradually. History majors rarely command premium starting salaries, but they develop research, writing, and analytical skills that can translate into diverse career paths in education, nonprofits, government, and beyond.

The caveat: these figures come from peer institutions in Minnesota, not Southwest Minnesota State's actual graduates. The school's 11% Pell grant rate suggests it serves a different population than some comparison schools, which could affect outcomes. If your child is passionate about history and comfortable with the humanities career path—where graduate school or patience in climbing career ladders is often necessary—the estimated debt burden appears workable. But recognize you're making this decision with limited visibility into how this specific program's graduates actually fare.