History at University of Florida

University of Florida's History program illustrates why earnings trajectories matter as much as starting salaries. While graduates earn just $27,360 in their first year—below both national and state medians—they reach $52,559 by year four, a 92% increase that outpaces typical History program growth. This dramatic climb suggests graduates are successfully transitioning into careers where liberal arts skills command better compensation, whether in business, government, or professional fields.

The debt picture makes this trajectory more palatable. At $19,022, it's about 20% below the typical History graduate's burden and translates to a manageable 0.70 debt-to-earnings ratio even in that challenging first year. Among Florida's 30 History programs, UF sits near the middle for first-year outcomes but its four-year earnings are competitive with schools like Florida State. The real gap is with University of Miami ($35,633 initially), though that comes with private school tuition.

For parents, the key question is whether your student can weather that first year or two of modest earnings. UF's strong academic reputation (24% admission rate, 1397 SAT average) suggests graduates have the credentials to access graduate programs or competitive entry-level positions that pay off later. If your child is committed to History and can manage on $27,000 initially—perhaps living at home or taking a second job—this program offers reasonable debt and genuine earnings potential.