History at University of North Florida

University of North Florida's history program starts rough but demonstrates something unusual: 60% earnings growth by year four. That first-year salary of $25,689 is genuinely concerning—well below both the national median ($31,220) and Florida's state median ($27,787). Yet by year four, graduates reach $41,098, which actually exceeds what most Florida history programs deliver long-term. Among Florida's 30 history programs, this ranks at the 40th percentile—middle of the pack despite the rocky start.

The program's strongest selling point is debt management. At $13,000, graduating students carry roughly half the national median debt ($24,000) and significantly less than Florida's typical $19,464. This creates real breathing room during those difficult first years when graduates are likely in entry-level positions or graduate school. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.51, while elevated for year one, becomes quite manageable as earnings climb.

The trajectory here matters more than the snapshot. If your child plans to pursue graduate education or needs time to establish a career path—common with humanities degrees—starting with minimal debt while attending an accessible state university makes practical sense. Just ensure they understand that first year will be financially tight, and have a plan for how they'll navigate it.