Anthropology at Kennesaw State University

Kennesaw State's anthropology program shows better-than-average first-year outcomes, but the trajectory raises questions worth examining closely. Starting at $30,544, graduates earn more than the national median and match the state average—ranking in the 68th percentile nationally. The debt load of $26,787 is manageable at first glance, with graduates owing less than one year's salary. However, the small sample size (fewer than 30 graduates) means these numbers could shift considerably with more data.

The concerning pattern emerges in year four, when earnings drop to $28,514—a 7% decline rather than the growth you'd typically hope to see. This backward slide could reflect the realities of anthropology career paths, where entry-level positions don't always lead to immediate advancement, or it might simply be statistical noise given the tiny cohort. For context, Emory's anthropology graduates earn substantially more ($36,700), though that comes with a much higher price tag and selectivity.

If your child is drawn to anthropology, Kennesaw provides a more affordable entry point than many alternatives, with debt below the national median. But set realistic expectations: this isn't a degree that typically commands higher salaries early in one's career, and graduates may need graduate school or years of experience to see meaningful earnings growth. The question isn't whether the numbers are "good"—it's whether your child has a clear plan for leveraging this degree toward stable employment.