History, Other.
Data details: Graduation rate, gender, ethnicity, and summary are for this specific degree (6-digit CIP) from IPEDS. Salary, debt, and related financial outcomes are based on the degree category (4-digit CIP) from the College Scorecard API. ← Back to search
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Please use your own discretion when interpreting these results. For certain degrees, a limited number of institutions report to the government's College Scorecard API, which may cause the data to be skewed or less representative of national trends. Consider these figures as informative but not definitive, and consult additional sources or advisors for important decisions.
Debt to Income Ratio
Debt-to-income analysis for History, Other.: The DTI for this program is 75.9%, which is within the generally accepted range for higher education. While not as low as some top-performing degrees, this ratio suggests that most graduates can manage their student loan payments, especially if they secure employment in related fields. If you are considering History, Other., compare your expected starting salary (currently $30494) to the average debt ($23143) to ensure it fits your financial goals in .
Degrees with a DTI between 0.5 and 0.8 are common, but it's wise to plan your budget and consider loan repayment options.
Important financial note for History, Other.: The debt-to-income ratio for this program is 75.9%, which is above the recommended maximum of 80%. This means that, on average, graduates may need to dedicate a significant portion of their first-year earnings to student loan payments. If you are considering History, Other., be sure to weigh the average starting salary ($30494) against the typical student debt ($23143), and explore scholarships, grants, or alternative funding sources to reduce your financial burden in and beyond.
Key Insights
History, Other. is a program that attracts motivated students who want to make an impact. Starting pay for new grads is typically $30494, and with an average debt of $23143, the debt-to-income ratio comes in at 0.76—which is about average for college grads.
This program sees about 31255 graduates annually, so you’ll be joining a well-established network. Whether you’re aiming for a high-paying job, a stable career, or a chance to make an impact, History, Other. is a great foundation. Remember, your journey is shaped by the opportunities you pursue—so get involved and stay curious!
Degree Overview
History, Other (CIP 54.0199) is a broad and interdisciplinary liberal arts degree designed for programs that prepare students to study history beyond traditional or conventional tracks. This CIP code represents programs that explore unique, emerging, or specialized historical topics, combining research, analysis, and critical thinking to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of human events, cultures, and societies across time.
At its core, history is about understanding the past to contextualize the present and inform the future. Programs under 54.0199 teach students to analyze primary and secondary sources, interpret historical events, and construct evidence-based arguments. Graduates gain research, analytical, and communication skills applicable to a wide range of careers and academic pursuits.
This degree category is especially relevant as organizations, educational institutions, and cultural institutions value professionals who can think critically, conduct research, and interpret complex information.
What Is a History, Other Degree?
A degree classified under CIP 54.0199 represents programs that cover non-traditional, specialized, or emerging historical studies. Schools use this classification for programs that may focus on interdisciplinary history, comparative studies, or topics not covered under standard history concentrations.
Depending on the institution, programs may include coursework in:
- World, regional, or cultural history
- Social, political, and economic history
- Historiography and historical theory
- Research methods and archival studies
- Public history and historical preservation
- Oral history and ethnography
- Digital history and historical technology applications
- Interdisciplinary or thematic history topics
- Ethics and interpretation in historical research
The emphasis is on critical thinking, research skills, and the ability to synthesize complex information.
Who Should Consider This Degree?
History, Other is ideal for students who:
- Are interested in exploring unique or interdisciplinary aspects of history
- Enjoy research, analysis, and storytelling
- Want to develop critical thinking and communication skills
- May pursue careers in education, archives, museums, public service, or research
- Are considering graduate study in history, law, or related fields
This degree appeals to individuals who value research, cultural understanding, and analytical reasoning.
What Will You Learn?
Students in 54.0199 programs learn to research, analyze, and interpret historical events and trends. Coursework emphasizes critical analysis, evidence-based reasoning, and effective communication.
You will develop the ability to evaluate sources, construct historical narratives, and understand the broader context of societal, cultural, and political developments.
Core Skills You’ll Build
Most programs help students develop skills such as:
- Conducting primary and secondary historical research
- Analyzing documents, artifacts, and other historical evidence
- Writing analytical and persuasive historical essays
- Synthesizing information across disciplines and time periods
- Understanding historical context and causation
- Applying ethical standards in research and interpretation
- Presenting historical findings orally and in writing
- Using digital tools for research and archival management
These skills are essential for careers in education, research, archives, and public history.
Topics You May Explore
Coursework may include subjects such as:
- World, regional, or cultural history
- Social, political, and economic history
- Historiography and historical theory
- Research methods and archival studies
- Public history and historical preservation
- Oral history and ethnography
- Digital history and technology applications
- Thematic or interdisciplinary historical studies
- Ethics and interpretation in historical research
Programs often incorporate research projects, internships, and practical applications to develop analytical and professional skills.
What Jobs Can You Get With This Degree?
A History, Other degree prepares graduates for roles in research, education, public service, and cultural institutions.
Common career paths include:
- Historian or Researcher
- Archivist or Curator
- Museum or Heritage Manager
- Teacher or Educator
- Public Policy Analyst
- Writer or Editor
- Cultural Resource Manager
- Consultant in historical research or preservation
Experience, internships, or graduate study can enhance career prospects and opportunities for advancement.
Where Can You Work?
Graduates commonly work in:
- Museums, archives, and libraries
- Educational institutions from K–12 to universities
- Government agencies and public policy organizations
- Historical societies and cultural institutions
- Research organizations and think tanks
- Publishing and media organizations
- Nonprofit organizations focused on cultural or historical preservation
History skills are transferable across research, education, and cultural sectors, providing diverse career pathways.
How Much Can You Earn?
Earnings vary depending on role, experience, and sector. Typical ranges include:
- Entry-level roles in education, archives, or research: $35,000–$50,000 annually
- Mid-level roles in museums, public history, or policy: $50,000–$70,000
- Senior historians, curators, or cultural managers: $70,000–$100,000+
Advanced degrees or specialization can significantly enhance earning potential.
Is This Degree Hard?
The academic difficulty is moderate. Students must be comfortable with research, analysis, writing, and critical thinking. Success requires attention to detail, intellectual curiosity, and the ability to synthesize complex information.
Who Should Choose CIP 54.0199 Specifically?
This CIP code may be a strong match if you:
- Are interested in unique or interdisciplinary historical studies
- Enjoy conducting research and analyzing complex information
- Want a broad liberal arts education with historical focus
- May pursue careers in education, archives, public service, or cultural institutions
- Value critical thinking, writing, and analytical skills
How to Prepare in High School
Students interested in history should:
- Take history, social studies, and literature courses
- Develop strong reading, writing, and analytical skills
- Participate in debate, history clubs, or research competitions
- Explore volunteer or internship opportunities in museums, libraries, or cultural organizations
- Practice research, presentation, and critical thinking skills
History, Other represents a flexible, analytical, and research-focused pathway for students who want to explore the past through non-traditional or specialized perspectives—preparing them for careers in education, research, public service, and cultural management.
Personality Fit (RIASEC Profile)
Official assessment tool by the U.S. Department of Labor