Cheapest Anthropology Colleges in Texas

Texas A&M University-Central Texas delivers the state's most affordable anthropology education with a net cost of just $1,113, while Rice University charges $12,640 despite its private status. This $11,527 gap highlights how public institutions dominate Texas affordability rankings, with 13 of the 15 cheapest programs coming from state schools. Anthropology graduates in Texas find opportunities across the state's massive healthcare system, particularly in Houston's Texas Medical Center where cultural competency and human behavior research inform patient care approaches. The University of Houston leads earnings potential at $34,603 annually, nearly doubling the state average of $19,045 at UT El Paso. With acceptance rates ranging from Rice's selective 8.68% to UT El Paso's open 99.92%, students can match their academic profile to affordability goals while preparing for careers in Texas's expanding social services and healthcare sectors.

Programs

$1,113 – $41,942

Net Price Range

$24,497

Avg. Program Earnings

68.8%

Avg. Graduation Rate

19 Anthropology Programs

Program rankings
#	School	Net Price	In-State Tuition	Graduation Rate	Acceptance Rate
1	Texas A&M University-Central Texas Killeen, Texas	$1,113	$6,627		95.7%
2	The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Edinburg, Texas	$6,500	$9,859	49.3%	87.7%
3	The University of Texas at El Paso El Paso, Texas	$10,726	$9,744	45.9%	99.9%
4	University of Houston-Clear Lake Houston, Texas	$11,056	$7,746	50.9%	69.4%
5	The University of Texas at San Antonio San Antonio, Texas	$11,234	$8,991	51.2%	86.9%
6	Rice University Houston, Texas	$12,640	$58,128	95.7%	8.7%
7	University of Houston Houston, Texas	$13,853	$9,711	64.9%	66.2%
8	University of North Texas Denton, Texas	$14,352	$11,164	59.6%	79.1%
9	The University of Texas at Arlington Arlington, Texas	$15,235	$11,728	56.5%	80.8%
10	Texas State University San Marcos, Texas	$16,438	$11,450	56.2%	87.7%
11	The University of Texas at Austin Austin, Texas	$19,678	$11,678	87.6%	31.4%
12	Texas Tech University Lubbock, Texas	$20,071	$11,852	67.5%	67.3%
13	Texas A & M University-College Station College Station, Texas	$20,924	$13,099	83.8%	62.7%
14	Austin College Sherman, Texas	$23,451	$46,500	69.5%	54.4%
15	Trinity University San Antonio, Texas	$23,650	$51,352	81.9%	30.5%
16	Southwestern University Georgetown, Texas	$27,468	$51,058	69.3%	44.8%
17	Texas Christian University Fort Worth, Texas	$33,531	$57,220	85.6%	56.1%
18	Southern Methodist University Dallas, Texas	$41,778	$64,460	83.3%	52.3%
19	Baylor University Waco, Texas	$41,942	$54,844	80.2%	45.9%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the massive cost difference between the cheapest and most expensive programs?

Texas A&M University-Central Texas costs just $1,113 net compared to the highest at $41,942, creating a $40,829 spread primarily driven by public versus private funding models. Public institutions receive state subsidies that dramatically reduce student costs, while private schools like Rice University charge $58,128 in tuition before aid. However, Rice's generous financial aid brings net costs down to $12,640, demonstrating how elite private schools can compete on affordability. The 13 public schools in the top 15 all maintain net costs under $21,000.

How do graduation rates correlate with program costs in Texas anthropology programs?

Rice University achieves a 95.7% graduation rate at $12,640 net cost, while UT El Paso graduates 45.9% of students at $10,726. This pattern shows that higher-cost programs often provide more support services and resources that improve completion rates. Mid-range programs like UT Austin balance both factors with an 87.6% graduation rate at $19,678. The data suggests that students should weigh completion likelihood against upfront costs when choosing programs.

Is there a significant earnings gap among Texas anthropology graduates?

University of Houston graduates earn $34,603 annually, nearly 82% more than UT El Paso graduates at $19,045, creating a $15,558 earnings spread. UT Austin graduates earn $27,048, while Texas A&M College Station graduates average $23,649 despite similar program costs. These variations reflect regional job markets, with Houston's varied economy and medical center providing more high-paying opportunities. The earnings data covers only 7 of the 15 schools, suggesting income tracking varies by institution.

Where do the most selective anthropology programs offer the best value?

Rice University provides strong value with just 8.68% acceptance and $12,640 net cost, competing directly with public school pricing. UT Austin admits 31.35% of applicants at $19,678 while maintaining an 87.6% graduation rate. Trinity University accepts 30.51% of students but costs $23,650, making UT Austin the better value among selective public options. Students seeking competitive programs should note that Rice's selectivity and private resources deliver outcomes comparable to top public universities.

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Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.