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History at Iowa State University

Ames, IA · Public · Bachelor's Degree

DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition

Optimistic

Base Case

Pessimistic

Earnings $41,294/yr (28% vs median)

AI Risk High (44% exposed)

Job Market Very Large (188,200 openings/yr)

ROI 11.5x earnings multiple (4.3x out-of-state)

Ranked #61 of 389 History programs Top 25%

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	$480K	$481K	$455K
Earnings Multiple (In-State)	11.4x	11.5x	10.8x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State)	4.3x	4.3x	4.1x
Probability of Field Employment	50%	45%	34%
DegreeOutlook Score	50	49	46

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)

$41,988

Out-of-state: $110,732 (4.3x ROI)

4-Year Net Price (After Aid)

$72,660

-73% less than sticker · See by income

Median Debt at Graduation

$22,000

6.4 months of Year 1 earnings

Reported Earnings (5 Year)

$46,000

11% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

Iowa State University History graduates command $41,294/yr out of the gate, well above the $32,281 national median. That 28% premium suggests the program's reputation carries real labor-market weight.

With a 11.5x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 5% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some History career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

At $22,000 against $41,294/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

Iowa State University ranks #61 among 389 History programs, placing it in the top 5% nationally by our financial outcomes measure.

The limited growth from $41,294 to $46,000 over five years suggests earnings in this field plateau relatively early in one's career.

About Iowa State University

A 89% acceptance rate means Iowa State University is accessible to most applicants, one of the larger campuses at 25,033 students in Ames, IA.

See all programs and financial aid at Iowa State 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 Iowa State 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 49/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for History at Iowa State University?

At 49/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring History programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.

Should I worry about AI if I study History at Iowa State 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 Iowa State University one of the best schools for History?

Among 389 History programs, Iowa State University's #61 position reflects consistently above-average results across earnings, ROI, and employment probability.

Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →