Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology

Program Scope: Anthropology is the study of humankind over time and place. Undergraduates majoring in anthropology are exposed to a multi-field approach that examines current cultures, the study of remains of past societies, study of human evolution and variation, all with an aim of further understanding what it means to be human. The Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology is designed to serve the needs of students who do not plan to continue their training beyond the baccalaureate level, as well as those who intend to pursue graduate study leading to the M.A. or Ph.D. in anthropology or in another academic discipline. Career Outlook: Anthropological skills are important for careers in public and private sector social services, health, community organizing and advocacy, cultural resource management, urban planning, international economic development, culturally-focused mass media, environmental assessment, education, social work, investigative journalism, and public policy. The principal goals of the department are: to provide an enriched vision of humanity and culture around the globe as well as an increased sensitivity to our everyday experiences of cultural and ethnic diversity, and to train students who choose to pursue careers in teaching, research, and applied fields at the M.A. level, as well providing a solid basis for those who plan to pursue a doctoral degree. The undergraduate program is built around a core of courses designed to provide a broad base of knowledge in the field. Courses in several areas give concentrated preparation for careers or graduate training in anthropology. No subfield concentration is required for the baccalaureate degree in anthropology. However, several sequences of courses are recommended for students who want to concentrate in a particular subfield. Majors are required to meet with an advisor every fall semester to discuss the most appropriate course sequence. Students are also encouraged to meet with an advisor early in their college career in order to discuss Study Abroad options in consultation with the Office of International Programs. Anthropology majors must complete the foundation core before enrolling in the remaining major requirements At least one upper division course in Area 1, Area 2, or electives, must be taken in each of the three subfields: biological, cultural/visual, and archaeology. The university-wide electives must be pre-approved by an advisor to qualify as credits toward the major. No more than 6 units can be taken in internships (ANTH 695), independent study (ANTH 699), and teaching (ANTH 685) combined. Courses taken in fulfillment of major requirements must be taken for a letter grade (no CR/NC).