Anthropology at University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor, MI · Public · Bachelor's Degree
37 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
38
Optimistic
37
Base Case
35
Pessimistic
Earnings $24,079/yr (-14% vs median)
AI Risk High (47% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (121,600 openings/yr)
ROI 9.9x earnings multiple (2.9x out-of-state)
Ranked #48 of 178 Anthropology programs Top 50%

Program Analysis

While the data might show an average below some national benchmarks, a University of Michigan Anthropology degree offers a distinct advantage through its rigorous academic environment and the university's strong national reputation. You're not just learning cultural theory; you're developing sophisticated analytical, research, and cross-cultural communication skills highly valued by employers in diverse fields. Many graduates leverage these capacities into roles requiring deep human understanding, such as user experience research for tech firms, market analysis, or positions within global NGOs and government agencies. The Ann Arbor network is powerful, opening doors to graduate programs or entry-level roles where your critical thinking stands out. Consider pursuing internships that align with your post-graduation goals to translate your humanistic insights into tangible professional experience.

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 $697K $680K $598K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 10.1x 9.9x 8.7x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 3.0x 2.9x 2.6x
Probability of Field Employment 44% 41% 30%
DegreeOutlook Score 38 37 35

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$68,912
Out-of-state: $232,288 (2.9x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$59,328
14% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$13,997
7.0 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$65,575
172% growth from Year 1

About University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

University of Michigan-Ann Arbor accepts 18% of applicants — selective, though not ultra-competitive, with 33,488 students enrolled in Ann Arbor, MI.

See all programs and financial aid at University of Michigan-Ann Arbor →

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 University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

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 37/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Anthropology at University of Michigan-Ann Arbor?
At 37/100, 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 University of Michigan-Ann Arbor?
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 →