History at The University of Texas at El Paso

UTEP's History program serves an overwhelmingly first-generation student body (61% Pell-eligible) and delivers something you don't often see with humanities degrees: meaningful earnings growth. The $10,000 jump from year one to year four suggests graduates are finding their footing in careers that value the critical thinking and research skills this major develops, rather than stagnating in entry-level roles.

The catch is where you start. That $30,230 first-year salary sits below both the Texas median ($34,269) and falls in the 40th percentile statewide—meaning 60% of Texas history programs launch graduates into higher-earning positions. The debt load of $25,125 isn't crushing (it's actually slightly above the Texas median), but combined with that lower starting salary, it means a tighter first year or two financially. For comparison, history graduates from UT Arlington start at $44,806 and Texas A&M grads at $42,899.

What matters here is whether your child has a clear plan beyond graduation. The earnings trajectory shows this degree *can* lead somewhere, but it requires hustle—networking, internships, maybe graduate school. If they're passionate about history and willing to be strategic about career development, the manageable debt keeps this viable. But if they're uncertain about post-graduation plans, that below-median Texas starting salary becomes a real risk. This is a degree that rewards initiative more than it rewards indecision.