Anthropology at San Diego State University

San Diego State's anthropology graduates start at $25,553—below both state and national medians—but the story shifts dramatically by year four. Earnings jump 53% to $39,194, placing these graduates well ahead of typical anthropology majors nationwide ($27,806) and in California ($27,856). This trajectory suggests the program's value emerges through career development rather than immediate job placement, though parents should note the difficult first year after graduation.

The financial picture offers real advantages. At $13,099, student debt sits far below both the national median ($23,000) and California's median ($16,834) for anthropology programs. That modest debt load means graduates can navigate those lean early-career years without crushing monthly payments. Among California's 47 anthropology programs, this one ranks in the 40th percentile for earnings—solidly middle-of-the-pack—but the low debt changes the calculation considerably.

For families choosing between anthropology programs, this represents a financially prudent option that requires patience. Your graduate won't match UCLA or Sacramento State's immediate outcomes, but they'll avoid the debt burden that makes many humanities degrees financially precarious. The key question is whether your student has the resources—whether family support or side work—to weather that first year while the career trajectory builds.