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History at California State University-Chico

Chico, CA · Public · Bachelor's Degree

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

Optimistic

Base Case

Pessimistic

Earnings $30,697/yr (-5% vs median)

AI Risk High (44% exposed)

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

ROI 15.5x earnings multiple (6.3x out-of-state)

Ranked #143 of 389 History programs Top 50%

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	$500K	$499K	$468K
Earnings Multiple (In-State)	15.5x	15.5x	14.5x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State)	6.3x	6.3x	5.9x
Probability of Field Employment	50%	45%	34%
DegreeOutlook Score	44	43	43

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)

$32,256

Out-of-state: $79,776 (6.3x ROI)

4-Year Net Price (After Aid)

$59,352

-84% less than sticker · See by income

Median Debt at Graduation

$16,838

6.6 months of Year 1 earnings

Reported Earnings (5 Year)

$46,221

51% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

At $30,697/yr, History graduates from California State University-Chico land near the $32,281 national average — neither a standout nor a red flag.

With a 15.5x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 6% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some History career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

At $16,838 against $30,697/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

A #143 ranking among 389 History programs places California State University-Chico in the middle-to-upper range. Solid, not exceptional.

The $30,697-to-$46,221 earnings arc over five years reflects a 51% gain — well above average career growth for recent graduates.

About California State University-Chico

With 94% of applicants admitted, California State University-Chico prioritizes broad access, serving 13,057 students in Chico, CA. Pell Grant recipients make up 40% of the student body — a marker of economic diversity.

See all programs and financial aid at California State University-Chico →

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 California State University-Chico

Consider the Trade Route?

Trade programs often mean less time in school, lower student debt, and hands-on career paths that tend to be more resilient to AI disruption.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 43/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for History at California State University-Chico?

At 43/100, 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 California State University-Chico?

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.

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