History at Fordham University

Bronx, NY · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree
29 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
29
Optimistic
29
Base Case
28
Pessimistic
Earnings $20,075/yr (-38% vs median)
AI Risk High (44% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (188,200 openings/yr)
ROI 3.4x earnings multiple
Ranked #372 of 389 History programs

Program Analysis

Fordham's History program offers a rigorous liberal arts education in a highly competitive urban environment. The earnings profile reflects that many graduates initially pursue careers in fields like non-profit management, K-12 education, archives, or public service, which often have more modest starting salaries compared to direct corporate pipelines, especially in the expensive New York City labor market. While the program excels at developing critical thinking, research, and communication skills—highly valued across sectors—these foundational abilities typically require active translation into specific career paths. You'll find many alumni thriving in management or specialized roles *after* gaining experience or pursuing further education. To maximize your earning potential, proactively seek internships aligned with your desired industry and consider how to brand your analytical skills for roles beyond traditional academic or cultural institutions.

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to History graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $867K $831K $723K
Earnings Multiple 3.5x 3.4x 2.9x
Probability of Field Employment 50% 45% 34%
DegreeOutlook Score 29 29 28

10-Year Earnings Projection

*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$247,968
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$170,324
31% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$26,000
15.5 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$71,979
259% growth from Year 1

About Fordham University

With a 56% acceptance rate, Fordham University is moderately selective, enrolling 10,239 students in Bronx, NY. After financial aid, the average student pays $170,324 over four years — 31% below sticker price.

See all programs and financial aid at Fordham University →

Top Career Paths

Natural sciences managers $161,180/yr
Managers, all other $136,550/yr
History teachers, postsecondary $81,500/yr
View all 8 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

History at Other Schools

Other Majors at Fordham University

Explore the Trade Alternative

Not every career requires a four-year degree. Trade programs in related fields can offer competitive salaries with a fraction of the student loan burden.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 29/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for History at Fordham University?
At 29/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring History programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
What's the payoff timeline for a History degree from Fordham University?
At $26,000 in median debt, graduates carry 16 months of starting salary in loans. Income-driven repayment plans may be relevant for many borrowers.
Should I worry about AI if I study History at Fordham University?
The 44% AI task exposure score is above average. Our model shows this affecting job availability more than salaries — graduates may face stiffer competition for fewer positions.
Is Fordham University a good choice for History despite lower starting pay?
Starting salary is one data point. If Fordham University's tuition is significantly below average, the ROI calculation can still work — lower earnings paired with lower costs can be a reasonable trade.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →