Anthropology at Ball State University

Muncie, IN · Public · Bachelor's Degree
30 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
31
Optimistic
30
Base Case
27
Pessimistic
Earnings $24,452/yr (-13% vs median)
AI Risk High (47% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (121,600 openings/yr)
ROI 11.6x earnings multiple (4.3x out-of-state)
Ranked #124 of 178 Anthropology programs

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Anthropology graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $499K $498K $465K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 11.6x 11.6x 10.8x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 4.3x 4.3x 4.0x
Probability of Field Employment 44% 41% 30%
DegreeOutlook Score 31 30 27

10-Year Earnings Projection

*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$43,032
Out-of-state: $115,064 (4.3x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$63,592
-48% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$22,250
10.9 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$43,370
77% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

First-year earnings of $24,452 track close to the $28,155 national median for Anthropology programs. This is a middle-of-the-road outcome on salary alone.

With a 11.6x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 7% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Anthropology career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

At $22,250 against $24,452/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

A #124 ranking among 178 Anthropology programs places Ball State University in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.

The $24,452-to-$43,370 earnings arc over five years reflects a 77% gain — well above average career growth for recent graduates.

About Ball State University

Ball State University has a 72% acceptance rate, making it broadly accessible, serving 13,770 students in Muncie, IN.

See all programs and financial aid at Ball State University →

Top Career Paths

Managers, all other $136,550/yr
Medical scientists, except epidemiologists $100,590/yr
Anthropology and archeology teachers, postsecondary $95,770/yr
View all 6 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Anthropology at Other Schools

Other Majors at Ball State University

Consider the Trade Route?

Trade programs often mean less time in school, lower student debt, and hands-on career paths that tend to be more resilient to AI disruption.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 30/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Anthropology at Ball State University?
At 30/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Anthropology programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Should I worry about AI if I study Anthropology at Ball State University?
The 47% AI task exposure score is above average. Our model shows this affecting job availability more than salaries — graduates may face stiffer competition for fewer positions.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →