Anthropology at CUNY Queens College

Queens College's anthropology program stands out for two things that matter most to value-conscious families: remarkably low debt and impressive earnings growth. At under $15,000 in median debt—about 35% less than typical New York anthropology programs—graduates leave with manageable obligations. That low debt load proves crucial because first-year earnings of $22,917 lag behind most peers.

Here's the critical insight: by year four, earnings jump 66% to $38,056, placing this program squarely at New York's median for anthropology graduates. While top-tier options like Fordham ($40,384) and Lehman ($38,879) edge slightly higher, Queens delivers comparable four-year outcomes at a fraction of the debt burden. Among New York's 47 anthropology programs, this ranks at the 40th percentile—middle of the pack, but with financial terms that beat most competitors.

The trade-off is clear: expect a challenging first year or two financially while your graduate establishes career footing. The 0.65 debt-to-earnings ratio isn't alarming given the trajectory, but it does mean living frugally early on. For families prioritizing CUNY's low tuition and a program that helps nearly half its Pell-eligible students graduate without crushing debt, Queens offers a practical path into anthropology. Just ensure your student has a plan—internships, grad school prep, or adjacent skills—to accelerate that early-career climb.