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Anthropology at San Diego State University

San Diego, CA · Public · Bachelor's Degree

DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition

Optimistic

Base Case

Pessimistic

Earnings $25,553/yr (-9% vs median)

AI Risk High (47% exposed)

Job Market Very Large (121,600 openings/yr)

ROI 12.4x earnings multiple (5.1x out-of-state)

Ranked #111 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	$404K	$411K	$401K
Earnings Multiple (In-State)	12.2x	12.4x	12.1x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State)	5.0x	5.1x	5.0x
Probability of Field Employment	44%	41%	30%
DegreeOutlook Score	31	31	28

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)

$33,160

Out-of-state: $80,680 (5.1x ROI)

4-Year Net Price (After Aid)

$64,696

-95% less than sticker · See by income

Median Debt at Graduation

$12,886

6.1 months of Year 1 earnings

Reported Earnings (4 Year)

$39,194

53% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

At $25,553/yr, Anthropology graduates from San Diego State University land near the $28,155 national average — neither a standout nor a red flag.

With a 12.4x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 1% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Anthropology career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

At $12,886 against $25,553/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

A #111 ranking among 178 Anthropology programs places San Diego State University in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.

About San Diego State University

A 34% acceptance rate puts San Diego State University in competitive admissions territory, with 33,654 students enrolled in San Diego, CA.

See all programs and financial aid at San Diego 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 San Diego State University

Is a Trade Program a Better Fit?

For students who prefer applied learning, trade programs can deliver strong earnings with significantly less debt and shorter time to employment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 31/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Anthropology at San Diego State University?

At 31/100, 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 San Diego 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 →