Anthropology at Missouri State University-Springfield

Missouri State's anthropology program shows graduates earning less than the state median—$27,283 versus $29,604—placing it in the 40th percentile among Missouri's eleven programs offering this degree. The $25,500 in typical debt sits above the state median of $21,550, though the debt load remains manageable at 93% of first-year earnings. Washington University grads start at $34,489 and University of Missouri-Columbia at $31,926, suggesting stronger alumni networks or preparation at those programs.

The 38% earnings jump by year four is encouraging, bringing graduates to $37,762—a respectable trajectory that suggests the degree opens doors over time. However, the small sample size (under 30 graduates tracked) means one or two outliers could skew these figures significantly. The low starting salary is typical for anthropology nationwide, where this program performs near the median.

For families comfortable with social science economics and a longer runway to financial independence, this represents a standard anthropology outcome at a reasonable price. But if your student is debt-averse or needs higher starting earnings, the program's below-average performance within Missouri warrants looking at Columbia or reconsidering the major altogether.