Analysis
Among Florida's history programs, University of Miami stands out—ranking in the 80th percentile statewide with first-year earnings of $35,633, well above the state median of $27,787. This selective private university (19% admission rate) produces history graduates who out-earn peers at larger public institutions like UCF and USF. The $19,000 median debt, while high in absolute terms, translates to a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.53, meaning graduates owe roughly half their first-year salary.
That said, the small sample size here (under 30 graduates) means these numbers could swing significantly year to year. The relatively high debt percentile (81st nationally) reflects Miami's private school tuition, though it's actually below the national median for history majors. For an anxious parent, the key question is whether the Miami brand and network justify the premium over a state school—UCF graduates earn nearly as much with likely lower debt for in-state students.
The bottom line: If your child is set on history and choosing between Miami and Florida's public universities, these earnings suggest Miami delivers competitive career outcomes despite the higher sticker price. Just recognize that history majors everywhere start modestly, and that small sample makes this data sketchier than you'd like for a major financial decision.
Where University of Miami Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all history bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Miami graduates compare to all programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Florida
History bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Florida (30 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $59,926 | $35,633 | — | $19,000 | 0.53 | |
| $6,368 | $34,335 | $38,679 | $21,965 | 0.64 | |
| $6,410 | $33,474 | $38,900 | $23,015 | 0.69 | |
| $6,565 | $31,835 | $42,391 | $17,250 | 0.54 | |
| $5,656 | $27,944 | $43,451 | $19,907 | 0.71 | |
| $33,424 | $27,787 | — | $20,500 | 0.74 | |
| 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 University of Miami, approximately 15% 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 16 graduates with reported earnings and 23 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.