Anthropology

The 90 credit Associate in Arts transfer degree is designed to meet the general education requirements at Washington State four-year intuitions and prepares students for a baccalaureate degree in Anthropology. Anthropology is also an excellent major for graduate studies in Sociology, Social Work, Psychology, Communication, Gender and Women’s Studies, Linguistics, Ethic Studies, Ethnomusicology, Urban Planning, Medicine, Forensics, Law, International Studies, International Business, and Environmental Studies. 

Anthropology is the study of human and non-human primates biologically, socially, and culturally at all times and in all places. Anthropology has four major areas of study: archaeology, biological anthropology, cultural anthropology, and linguistic anthropology. It is through the investigation of each of these areas, and their influence on each other, that anthropologists attempt to holistically understand human cultural and physical diversity and their continuous adaption to the environment.

Program Requirements:

To complete the associate degree in Anthropology at Shoreline Community College, students must fulfill a total of approximately 90-95 credit hours, including general education requirements, core anthropology courses, and electives. The program emphasizes a broad understanding of human cultures, biological aspects, and archaeological methods. Incoming students are advised to start with foundational courses such as Introduction to Anthropology, which covers cultural, biological, and archaeological anthropology principles. Students should also complete courses in English Composition and Mathematics to satisfy college-wide core requirements. To develop research and analytical skills, students are encouraged to enroll in courses like Language and Culture, World Prehistory, and Physical Anthropology. Electives may include courses in archaeology, ethnography, or related fields like sociology or history to diversify knowledge. Fieldwork or lab components are integral to gaining practical experience, so students should select courses with hands-on components when possible. Academic advising is recommended to ensure all degree requirements are met efficiently. Upon graduation, students are prepared for transfer to four-year institutions or entry-level positions in cultural resource management, public archaeology, or related areas. Maintaining a cumulative GPA of at least 2.0 is necessary for graduation. The program values critical thinking, research competence, and cross-cultural awareness to equip students for diverse careers or further educational pursuits in anthropology and related disciplines.

The Shoreline Community College offers various financial aid options to support students enrolled in their Anthropology program. Students can explore federal and state grants, scholarships, work-study opportunities, and loan programs to finance their studies. Federal Pell Grants and Federal Work-Study programs are available to eligible students, providing financial assistance based on need and employment opportunities on campus. Additionally, Shoreline Community College offers institutional scholarships that students can apply for, which are often awarded based on academic achievement, financial need, or specific criteria related to the anthropology field. Many students also utilize private scholarships from external organizations that support students pursuing social sciences and anthropology degrees. The college's financial aid office provides detailed guidance and assistance with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) process, helping students determine their eligibility for financial aid packages. In terms of tuition costs, Shoreline Community College maintains competitive rates for in-state students, and various payment plans are available to help manage expenses effectively. International students are encouraged to seek specific scholarships or financial aid options tailored for their status, and they may also consider external funding sources and private lenders. It is important for prospective students to carefully review their financial resources early in their program planning and consult the college’s financial aid advisors for personalized support. Overall, Shoreline Community College is committed to making education accessible by providing multiple opportunities for financial assistance, thereby reducing the financial barriers to studying anthropology and ensuring students can focus on their academic and cultural learning experiences.

The Anthropology program at Shoreline Community College offers students a comprehensive introduction to the study of human societies, cultures, and biological aspects of humans across time and space. This program is designed to provide students with a broad understanding of human diversity, evolutionary history, and cultural development, preparing them for further education or careers in related fields such as archaeology, cultural resource management, forensic anthropology, or anthropology research. The curriculum includes courses in cultural anthropology, biological anthropology, archaeology, and linguistic anthropology, allowing students to explore various subfields and develop a well-rounded perspective on human life. Shoreline Community College emphasizes both theoretical frameworks and practical skills, providing opportunities for students to engage in fieldwork, research projects, and internships that enhance their understanding and employability. The program aims to foster critical thinking, cultural sensitivity, and analytical skills, essential for interpreting human behavior and societal changes. Many courses incorporate current issues, such as globalization, migration, and cultural preservation, reflecting the relevance of anthropology in contemporary society. The college also supports students in transferring to four-year universities where they can pursue bachelor’s degrees in anthropology or related disciplines. The program’s faculty members are experienced professionals with diverse backgrounds in research, education, and fieldwork, dedicated to mentoring students and helping them achieve their academic and career goals. Overall, the anthropology program at Shoreline is an excellent choice for students interested in exploring the complexities of human existence from multiple perspectives, gaining valuable skills applicable to numerous career paths, and understanding the dynamic nature of human cultures and biological evolution in a global context.