Best Anthropology Schools in Tennessee

Tennessee has 6 colleges offering Anthropology programs tracked by the College Scorecard, producing 97 recent graduates. Graduates earn $26,095 on average within two years, roughly in line with the national average of $26,086.

School choice matters significantly: Rhodes College graduates earn $37,208 while University of Memphis graduates earn $19,455 — a $17,753 gap. Research each program's curriculum, employer connections, and career services before deciding.

6
Schools in TN
$26,095
TN Avg. Earnings
$26,086
National Avg.
225
Schools Nationally

Public vs Private: Anthropology in Tennessee

Public Schools (4)
$23,156
avg. 2yr earnings
Private Schools (2)
$31,974
avg. 2yr earnings

Private schools produce $8,818 more in early earnings on average, but typically cost more. Compare net price to determine which offers better ROI.

Anthropology Schools in Tennessee, Ranked by Earnings

#1
R

Rhodes College

Memphis, TN · Private

$37,208
2yr Earnings
Acceptance: 49.7%
#2
T

The University of Tennessee-Knoxville

Knoxville, TN · Public

$29,467
2yr Earnings
1yr Earnings: $24,635
Graduates: 54
Acceptance: 46.0%
#3
L

Lee University

Cleveland, TN · Private

$26,739
2yr Earnings
Acceptance: 72.2%
#4
M

Middle Tennessee State University

Murfreesboro, TN · Public

$22,192
2yr Earnings
1yr Earnings: $23,173
Graduates: 20
Acceptance: 68.0%
#5
E

East Tennessee State University

Johnson City, TN · Public

$21,508
2yr Earnings
Acceptance: 87.1%
#6
U

University of Memphis

Memphis, TN · Public

$19,455
2yr Earnings
1yr Earnings: $26,719
Graduates: 23
Acceptance: 93.4%

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best school for Anthropology in Tennessee?
Rhodes College ranks #1 for Anthropology in Tennessee with median graduate earnings of $37,208 within two years of graduation. There are 6 schools offering Anthropology programs in the state.
How much do Anthropology graduates earn in Tennessee?
Anthropology graduates in Tennessee earn an average of $26,095 within two years of graduation. This is near the national average of $26,086 for this major.
What is the hardest Anthropology school to get into in Tennessee?
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville is the most selective Anthropology program in Tennessee with an acceptance rate of 46.0%. The average acceptance rate across Anthropology programs in the state is 69.4%.
Should I attend a public or private school for Anthropology in Tennessee?
In Tennessee, private Anthropology programs produce average earnings of $31,974 vs $23,156 at public schools. However, public schools typically cost less — consider net price relative to earnings when calculating ROI. There are 4 public and 2 private options in the state.

Other Popular Majors in Tennessee

All colleges in Tennessee →

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Data updated June 2026. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.