CollegeTuitionData — College Data in Plain English

History at University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

Credential: Bachelor's | State: MI

Median Earnings (1yr post-grad): $31,215 | Annual Completions: 121

U-M History: Develops critical skills for diverse careers, with strong long-term earning potential.

Program Analysis

The Bachelor of Arts in History at the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor equips students with a robust analytical toolkit, fostering critical thinking, research proficiency, and sophisticated communication skills. You'll delve into diverse historical periods and global cultures, learning to interpret primary and secondary sources, construct compelling arguments, and understand the complexities of human societies. This program cultivates a deep understanding of causality, context, and change over time, essential for navigating an increasingly intricate world. Graduates are prepared for a wide array of career paths, not limited to traditional academic roles. Common trajectories include roles in archival management, museum curation, historical consulting, public policy analysis, journalism, law, education, and various sectors of business requiring strong analytical and research capabilities. Entry-level positions might include Research Assistant, Junior Archivist, or Editorial Assistant, with median earnings around $31,215 one year post-graduation. With experience, career progression can lead to roles such as Senior Archivist, Policy Analyst, Museum Director, or investigative Journalist, with mid-career salaries potentially reaching $60,000-$80,000. Senior-level positions in management or specialized consulting could command salaries exceeding $100,000. While the immediate post-graduation salary may seem modest compared to some STEM fields, the long-term return on investment (ROI) for a History degree from a prestigious institution like U-M is significant. The analytical and critical thinking skills honed are highly transferable and valued across industries. The demand for individuals who can research, analyze, and communicate complex information effectively remains strong, particularly in fields like data analysis, market research, and strategic planning. To maximize your ROI, consider pursuing internships in fields that interest you, developing complementary skills (e.g., data analysis software, digital humanities tools), and leveraging the strong alumni network at the University of Michigan. A graduate degree (e.g., Master's, PhD, JD, MBA) can further enhance earning potential and open doors to specialized, higher-paying roles.

Career Paths

Graduates of History at University of Michigan-Ann Arbor can pursue the following career paths:

  • Archivist. Median salary: $65,000, Moderate growth outlook.
  • Policy Analyst. Median salary: $78,000, Strong growth outlook.
  • Journalist. Median salary: $55,000, Declining growth outlook.
  • Museum Curator. Median salary: $62,000, Moderate growth outlook.
  • Market Research Analyst. Median salary: $70,000, Strong growth outlook.
  • Lawyer (with JD). Median salary: $120,000, Moderate growth outlook.

Skills Gained

Key skills developed in this program:

  • Critical Thinking
  • Research and Analysis
  • Written and Oral Communication
  • Problem-Solving
  • Historical Interpretation

Frequently Asked Questions about History at University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

Is History. at University of Michigan-Ann Arbor worth it?

The History program at the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor offers significant value, particularly in developing transferable analytical and communication skills. While the median earnings one year post-graduation are $31,215, this figure often represents entry-level positions. Graduates are well-positioned for careers in policy analysis, research, journalism, and law, with mid-career salaries potentially reaching $70,000-$100,000+. The strong reputation of U-M and the rigorous training provided contribute to a strong long-term return on investment, especially when combined with further education or specialized internships.

What jobs can I get with a History. degree?

A History degree from U-M opens doors to a wide range of professions. You can pursue roles such as Archivist, Policy Analyst, Market Research Analyst, Journalist, Museum Curator, or Educator. Many graduates also leverage their skills in fields like law (requiring a JD), public relations, business consulting, and government service. The ability to research, analyze complex information, and communicate findings effectively is highly sought after in these diverse sectors, with typical salaries varying based on the field and experience level.

How much do History. graduates earn?

Entry-level earnings for History graduates from U-M are around $31,215 one year post-graduation. With experience, mid-career professionals can expect to earn between $60,000 and $80,000 annually in roles like Policy Analyst or Senior Archivist. For those who pursue advanced degrees or enter specialized fields such as law or senior management, salaries can exceed $100,000. The earning potential is strongly influenced by career path, further education, and the development of complementary skills.

Explore More

Analysis based on U.S. Department of Education data. Not enrollment advice. Verify information with the institution directly.