Skip to main content

Best Value History Colleges in Maryland

Ranked by best return on investment (earnings vs. cost). See our methodology.

Maryland's History programs reveal striking cost disparities that don't align with typical earnings expectations. University of Maryland Global Campus delivers the strongest return on investment with graduates earning $41,565 against a net cost of just $14,514. Meanwhile, some private institutions charge nearly double without proportional salary benefits. The state's proximity to Washington D.C. creates unique opportunities for History graduates in federal agencies, think tanks, and museums like the Smithsonian Institution. Public universities dominate the value equation, with five of the top six most affordable options coming from state institutions. Graduation rates span from 29.60% to 94.60%, creating additional considerations beyond simple cost calculations. The earnings range of $21,052 to $41,937 reflects the varied career paths available to History majors in Maryland's government-adjacent economy.
22
Programs
$6,007 – $29,633
Net Price Range
$31,024
Avg. Program Earnings
58.0%
Avg. Graduation Rate

22 History Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $14,514 $41,565 $7,992 29.6%
2 $16,791 $41,937 $11,306 67.6% 78.6%
3 $15,590 $37,808 $11,505 88.6% 44.6%
4 $16,456 $33,459 $10,638 67.4% 91.1%
5 $18,328 $28,598 $12,952 70.6% 80.6%
6 $15,015 $22,771 $8,118 41.6% 85.4%
7 $24,987 $33,993 $47,240 58.0% 79.6%
8 $29,633 $37,208 $55,480 80.5% 83.5%
9 $23,707 $27,488 $45,870 55.3% 77.9%
10 $18,362 $21,052 $15,236 68.0% 77.3%
11 $20,923 $22,824 $49,647 63.8% 82.1%
12 $29,095 $23,579 $54,356 74.1% 74.7%
13 $18,161 $63,340 94.6% 7.3%
14 $14,035 $8,898 34.6% 81.6%
15 $23,774 $51,250 60.0% 80.2%
16 $15,323 $9,998 52.1% 87.9%
17 $24,536 $41,910 51.9% 69.6%
18 $6,007 $7,001 25.6% 45.0%
19 $15,026 $25,200 40.0% 51.4%
20 $19,335 $8,999 38.1% 86.5%
21 $26,806 $39,708 66.4% 84.1%
22 $17,546 $9,772 46.7% 89.3%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes University of Maryland Global Campus the top value for History majors?

UMGC combines the lowest net cost at $14,514 with the highest graduate earnings at $41,565, creating an strong return on investment. The online-focused institution serves many working professionals who leverage federal employment opportunities in the D.C. area. Despite a lower 29.60% graduation rate, graduates who complete the program see strong salary outcomes in government and related sectors.

How do private college costs compare to earnings potential in Maryland?

Private institutions like Loyola University Maryland charge $29,633 net cost but produce graduates earning $37,208, creating a less favorable cost-to-earnings ratio than public alternatives. Mount St. Mary's University costs $24,987 yet graduates earn $33,993, still trailing the value proposition of top public programs. The 80.50% graduation rate at Loyola does provide greater completion assurance than some public options.

Is the $20,000 earnings gap between schools significant for History majors?

The difference between St. Mary's College graduates earning $21,052 and Towson University graduates at $41,937 represents nearly doubling salary potential. This $20,885 gap compounds significantly over a career, potentially totaling hundreds of thousands in lifetime earnings. Geographic proximity to federal employment centers likely contributes to these variations in graduate outcomes.

Does Johns Hopkins University offer value despite missing earnings data?

Johns Hopkins maintains a 94.60% graduation rate and accepts only 7.25% of applicants, suggesting highly competitive outcomes. The $18,161 net cost falls below many private competitors, indicating strong financial aid support. Without earnings data, value assessment remains incomplete, but the university's reputation in research and proximity to federal agencies likely supports strong graduate outcomes.

Where do Maryland History graduates find the best employment opportunities?

The Washington D.C. metropolitan area provides strong opportunities in federal agencies, congressional offices, and cultural institutions like the National Archives. Maryland's location offers access to both government positions and private sector roles in consulting, lobbying, and research organizations. The state's biotech and cybersecurity sectors also value History graduates for their research and analytical skills in compliance and policy roles.

More History Rankings

Cheapest History in Maryland History Under $20,000 in Maryland

Related

All History Programs Best Colleges in Maryland Best History in Maryland

Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.