Anthropology at Cleveland State University

Cleveland, OH · Public · Bachelor's Degree
23 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
23
Optimistic
23
Base Case
21
Pessimistic
Earnings $14,647/yr (-48% vs median)
AI Risk High (47% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (121,600 openings/yr)
ROI 9.3x earnings multiple (6.5x out-of-state)
Ranked #172 of 178 Anthropology programs

Program Analysis

Your initial earnings trajectory with a Cleveland State Anthropology degree appears significantly below the national average for the field. This often reflects the regional labor market in Northeast Ohio, where direct, high-paying entry-level roles specifically for anthropology graduates can be limited without further specialization. While the degree cultivates invaluable critical thinking and cultural analysis skills, many graduates find themselves in generalist roles in non-profits, local government, or small businesses, where starting salaries are modest. The higher-paying careers shown often require advanced degrees or extensive experience, which aren't typical immediately after graduation. To improve your outlook, actively seek internships early in areas like market research, community development, or museum curation within Cleveland. Consider pairing your anthropology studies with a minor in business, data analytics, or urban studies to make your skillset more directly applicable to local employers and accelerate your career progression.

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 $464K $467K $442K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 9.2x 9.3x 8.8x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 6.5x 6.5x 6.2x
Probability of Field Employment 44% 41% 30%
DegreeOutlook Score 23 23 21

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$50,452
Out-of-state: $71,892 (6.5x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$64,260
-27% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$20,000
16.4 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$32,927
125% growth from Year 1

About Cleveland State University

A 95% acceptance rate means Cleveland State University is accessible to most applicants, serving 9,077 students in Cleveland, OH.

See all programs and financial aid at Cleveland 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 Cleveland State University

Explore the Trade Alternative

Not every career requires a four-year degree. Trade programs in related fields can offer competitive salaries with a fraction of the student loan burden.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 23/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Anthropology at Cleveland State University?
At 23/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Anthropology programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
What's the payoff timeline for a Anthropology degree from Cleveland State University?
At $20,000 in median debt, graduates carry 16 months of starting salary in loans. Income-driven repayment plans may be relevant for many borrowers.
Should I worry about AI if I study Anthropology at Cleveland 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.
Is Cleveland State University a good choice for Anthropology despite lower starting pay?
Starting salary is one data point. If Cleveland State University's tuition is significantly below average, the ROI calculation can still work — lower earnings paired with lower costs can be a reasonable trade.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →