Anthropology at Weber State University

Weber State's anthropology program graduates earn slightly above both state and national medians—$30,139 versus Utah's $27,844 and the national $27,806—though the small graduating class (under 30 students) means these figures could swing considerably year to year. The program ranks in the 60th percentile among Utah anthropology programs and 65th nationally, putting it in modestly positive territory but not dramatically outpacing alternatives like University of Utah or Utah State, which report nearly identical outcomes.

The debt load of $24,401 is reasonable for a bachelor's degree, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.81 that sits just below the concerning 1:1 threshold. Still, starting at $30,000 makes that first year tight financially, particularly if graduates need to begin repayment immediately. Anthropology typically requires graduate education for career advancement, so families should view this as a potential stepping stone rather than a terminal credential.

The real question is whether your student has a clear plan for what comes after graduation. If they're committed to graduate school or have a specific career path mapped out, Weber State provides a cost-effective foundation. If they're exploring anthropology out of general interest without a concrete next step, the modest starting salary—while better than some peers—won't offer much financial cushion. The small program size could mean more faculty attention, but verify current enrollment trends before assuming that advantage holds.