History at University of Rhode Island

URI's History program delivers earnings below the state's history median but demonstrates stronger long-term growth than typical for the field. While first-year graduates earn about $4,000 less than the Rhode Island median for history majors, the 29% earnings jump by year four outpaces what most humanities programs achieve. Graduates start at $34,319—actually above the national history median of $31,220—and reach $44,425 within four years, suggesting this degree opens doors that take time to fully leverage.

The debt load of $21,469 is manageable, translating to a 0.63 ratio that's reasonable for a liberal arts degree. However, Rhode Island parents should note that within the state, this program ranks in just the 40th percentile for history earnings. The gap between URI and top in-state options like Brown ($42,296) and Providence College ($41,923) is significant in year one, though URI's stronger growth trajectory helps narrow that difference over time.

For families prioritizing URI's lower in-state tuition and still wanting a history degree, this represents a solid middle ground—you're getting national-average-plus earnings with below-national-average debt. The delayed payoff suits students planning graduate school or careers where humanities degrees serve as foundations rather than direct career credentials. Just understand you're trading some immediate earning power for URI's more affordable price point compared to Rhode Island's private alternatives.