Anthropology

The Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology at California State University offers students a comprehensive introduction to the diverse and dynamic field of human studies. This program provides an interdisciplinary approach to understanding human behavior, culture, evolution, and society, preparing students for a wide range of careers or advanced studies. Students will explore the four main subfields of anthropology: cultural anthropology, archaeology, biological anthropology, and linguistics, gaining a holistic view of human existence across different times and places. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, research skills, and cultural awareness, enabling students to analyze contemporary issues such as globalization, cultural diversity, health, and human rights through an anthropological lens. Courses are designed to combine theoretical knowledge with practical application, including fieldwork, lab work, and ethnographic research, encouraging hands-on experience. The program also aims to develop students’ analytical and communication skills to articulate complex ideas clearly and effectively. Students have access to state-of-the-art laboratories, archaeological sites, and community partnerships, enriching their academic experience with real-world exposure. Graduates of the program are well-equipped for careers in cultural resource management, museum work, international development, public policy, education, and research. They are also prepared for graduate studies in anthropology or related fields. Throughout the program, students are encouraged to consider ethical issues in anthropology, such as respect for indigenous cultures and sensitive research practices. The department fosters an inclusive and supportive learning environment, promoting diversity of thought and cultural perspectives. With experienced faculty dedicated to mentoring and guidance, students can customize their educational journey to align with their career aspirations. Upon completion, graduates will possess a deep understanding of human diversity, a critical perspective on social issues, and the practical skills necessary for making meaningful contributions in a variety of professional settings.

Catalog NumberCourse NameUnits

ANTH 102Cultural Anthropology3

ANTH 104Introduction to Bioanthropology3

ANTH 105Introduction to Archaeology3

ANTH 106Culture and Communication3

Upper Division Required Courses - 15-16 units

Methods/skills Courses 6-7 units

Catalog NumberCourse NameUnits

SOC/POLS/PSY 303Statistical Applications in the Social Sciences4

ANTH 375Qualitative Research Methods in Anthropology3

ANTH 377Archaeological Method and Theory3

Upper Division Core - 9 units

Catalog NumberCourse NameUnits

ANTH 352Applied Anthropology3

ANTH 470The Development of Anthropological Perspectives3

ANTH 499Capstone Project3

Upper Division Elective Courses - 15 units

Catalog NumberCourse NameUnits

ANTH 310Civilizations of an Ancient Landscape: World Archaeology3

ANTH/ESRM 332Human Ecology3

ANTH 323Native Americans of California to the 1850's3

ANTH 345Human Evolution and Diversity3

ANTH/HIST 442The African Diaspora3

ANTH 443Medical Anthropology3

ANTH/ECON 444Values and Valuables3

ANTH 445The Seacoast Through Time3

ANTH 446Altered States of Consciousness3

ANTH 480Archaeological Reconnaissance3

ANTH 481Archaeological Excavation3

ANTH 490Seminar in Anthropology3

ANTH 492Service Learning/Internship3

ANTH 494Independent Study3

Required Supporting, GE Elective Courses - 77-78 units

Area of StudyUnits

American Institutions Requirement6

Other GE courses45

Electives26-27

English Score

Submit the results of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or other acceptable test (see below for list of tests).  Scores must be sent directly to CSUCI from testing agency.

Acceptable English Placement Exams

TOEFL – Test of English as a Foreign Language with a minimum Paper-Based score of 500, a minimum Computer Based score of 173 or a minimum Internet Based score of 61.

IELTS – International English Language Test System with an overall band score of 6.0.

*Transfer students: It’s not necessary to submit a TOEFL or IELTS score if you have completed the required Freshman Composition Class at your community college.

Affidavit of Financial Support and Bank Statement

Submit Affidavit of Financial Support and bank statement . Other acceptable methods are to have an original letter on the financial institution's letterhead, signed and dated by the institution's appropriate officer or to have a sponsor, a person willing to financially support the student while he or she is studying at CI, to submit a letter indicating their willingness to support the student, signed and dated by the sponsor. In addition, the sponsor must submit her/his original financial statement (see above) and attach it to the letter.

The anthropology program at California State University offers a variety of financing options to support students in their academic pursuits. Students enrolled in the program can access federal financial aid programs, including grants and loans, by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). CSU participates in federal Pell Grants, which provide need-based awards to eligible undergraduate students, helping to reduce the financial burden of higher education. Additionally, students may be eligible for federal subsidized and unsubsidized loans, which offer low-interest borrowing options with flexible repayment plans. The university also offers state-specific financial aid programs, such as Cal Grants, which are awarded based on academic achievement and financial need.

California State University provides institutional scholarships and awards that students can apply for, sometimes specifically targeted towards anthropology majors or students demonstrating exceptional academic performance or financial need. These scholarships may be merit-based, need-based, or a combination of both, and they often have application deadlines throughout the academic year. In addition, the university encourages students to seek part-time employment opportunities both on and off-campus, including work-study programs that provide valuable work experience while earning funds to support their studies.

Private funding sources, such as scholarships from external organizations or community groups, are also available and can be accessed through college counseling offices or online scholarship databases. Students are advised to regularly check the university's financial aid website and consult the financial aid office for updated information on available funding options, application procedures, and deadlines. External funding can significantly offset tuition costs, housing, books, and other educational expenses, making the anthropology program more accessible to a diverse student body.

Furthermore, the university offers financial literacy workshops that help students understand budgeting, loan management, and financial planning, empowering them to manage their resources effectively during and after their studies. Returning students, veterans, and students with dependents may have access to specialized financial aid programs designed to meet their unique needs. Overall, California State University is committed to providing comprehensive financial support options to ensure that all qualified students can pursue and complete their anthropology degrees without undue financial hardship.

The Anthropology program at California State University aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of human cultures, societies, and biological aspects across time and space. The curriculum is designed to explore the diversity of human experience through four main subfields: cultural anthropology, archaeological anthropology, biological anthropology, and linguistic anthropology. Students are encouraged to develop a multidisciplinary perspective, integrating methods and theories from each area to analyze contemporary issues and historical developments. The program emphasizes critical thinking, ethnographic research, and fieldwork experiences, preparing graduates for careers in research, education, public policy, and cultural resource management.

The program offers a variety of courses that cover key topics such as human evolution, prehistoric and historic archaeology, ethnography, language diversity, and cultural change. Students have access to modern laboratories and archaeological labs equipped with advanced technology for analyzing artifacts and biological samples. The faculty members are experienced scholars and researchers who actively publish and present their work at conferences, ensuring that students learn from current scholarship. The program also promotes experiential learning through internships, study abroad opportunities, and community engagement projects, allowing students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings.

Upon completing the Anthropology program, graduates will have developed research skills, cultural awareness, and an understanding of global and local issues affecting diverse populations. The program prepares students for careers in museum work, cultural resource management, international development, education, and further graduate study. The university provides various resources, including advisory support, career counseling, and access to professional organizations, to assist students in achieving their academic and professional goals. Overall, the Anthropology program at California State University offers students a robust foundation in understanding human diversity and complexity, equipping them with the analytical tools necessary for addressing the challenges of an interconnected world.