Anthropology, BA


At a Glance: program details

  • Location: or
  • Additional Program Fee: Yes
  • Second Language Requirement: Yes
  • Math Intensity: General program math intensity general
  • Initial Math Course: MAT 142 - College Mathematics

Required Courses (Major Map)

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Are you intrigued by the wider world and looking for a program that considers the big picture of humans in all times and all places? Study at the No. 1 school for anthropology and help make the world a better place by finding solutions to today's most complex issues.

Program Description

Anthropology is the study of what it means to be human, in the broadest possible terms.

The Bachelor of Arts program in anthropology helps students recognize and solve problems facing the contemporary world through a broad understanding of humanity. Working alongside leading faculty members, students gain experience as apprentices on research projects. Students also have opportunities for hands-on learning through study abroad programs and field schools.

This interdisciplinary program offers training in the main areas of anthropology, including archaeology, bioarchaeology, sociocultural anthropology and evolutionary anthropology.

Students enrolled in this program may not pursue a concurrent Bachelor of Science in anthropology or BA in global health, but they may add a minor in global health to complement the core curriculum. The BA in anthropology is primarily for those whose interests lie in society, culture and archaeology, while the BS is primarily taken by students interested in science and mathematics-based courses.

In addition to reviewing the guidelines in the Concurrent Program Options section below, students interested in pursuing concurrent or second baccalaureate degrees in The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences are advised to visit The College's website for more information and requirements.




Admission Requirements

All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.

Freshman Transfer International Readmission


Transfer Options

ASU is committed to helping students thrive by offering tools that allow personalization of the transfer path to ASU. Students may use the Transfer Map search to outline a list of recommended courses to take prior to transfer.

ASU has transfer partnerships in Arizona and across the country to create a simplified transfer experience for students. These pathway programs include exclusive benefits, tools and resources, and help students save time and money in their college journey. Students may learn more about these programs by visiting the admission site: https://admission.asu.edu/transfer/pathway-programs.


Change of Major Requirements

A current ASU student has no additional requirements for changing majors.

Students should refer to https://changingmajors.asu.edu for information about how to change a major to this program.


Flexible Degree Options

Accelerated program options

This program allows students to obtain both a bachelor's and master's degree in as little as five years.
It is offered as an accelerated bachelor's and master's degree with:

Global Health

Passionate about global health and creating change? Go beyond treating symptoms --- explore the sociocultural and evolutionary roots of health disparities. In this program, you'll develop evidence-based solutions that address both local and global health challenges, making a lasting impact where medical practice leaves off.

Website | Locations: ONLNE


Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. During their junior year, eligible students will be advised by their academic departments to apply.

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Career Outlook

Graduates have the knowledge and skills they need to find jobs in fields where understanding complex human behavior is important.

The demand in the job market for people with an anthropology background is stimulated by a growing need for researchers and analysts with keen thinking skills who can manage, evaluate and interpret complex problems and work effectively across cultures and languages. As the many spheres of human interaction expand globally, people trained in anthropology are increasingly sought for their broad, holistic knowledge and perspectives, the hallmarks of anthropology.

Career opportunities include:

  • acting as legal advocates for displaced communities like refugees in international cases
  • analyzing and proposing policies
  • conducting postgraduate academic research or teaching
  • consulting for private and public organizations
  • curating cultural resources
  • health system administration or health care professionals
  • directing nonprofit organizations
  • directing programs in the private or public sector
  • managing culture or heritage resources in private or public sectors
  • planning pandemic and other disaster response

Example Careers

Students who complete this degree program may be prepared for the following careers. Advanced degrees or certifications may be required for academic or clinical positions. Career examples include but are not limited to:

Anthropologists and Archeologists


  • Growth: 4.2%
  • Median Salary*: 63940

Anthropology and Archeology Teachers, Postsecondary


  • Growth: 4%
  • Median Salary*: 85000

Archivists


  • Growth: 8.2%
  • Median Salary*: 58640
  Bright Outlook

Compliance Managers


  • Growth: 3.3%
  • Median Salary*: 128620

Area, Ethnic, and Cultural Studies Teachers, Postsecondary


  • Growth: 3.9%
  • Median Salary*: 80910

Investment Fund Managers


  • Growth: 16%
  • Median Salary*: 139790
  Bright Outlook

Curators


  • Growth: 11.1%
  • Median Salary*: 60380
  Bright Outlook

Museum Technicians and Conservators


  • Growth: 9.9%
  • Median Salary*: 47270
  Bright Outlook

Sociologists


  • Growth: 4.5%
  • Median Salary*: 98590
  Bright Outlook

Sociology Teachers, Postsecondary


  • Growth: 3.7%
  • Median Salary*: 78970

* Data obtained from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) under sponsorship of the U.S. Department of Labor/Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).



Global Opportunities

Global Experience

Study abroad can be crucial in helping students gain a clearer view of the world, its peoples and the complex challenges that exist for all. There are numerous faculty-directed study abroad programs designed to connect students with issues that impact local communities yet transect boarders. Whether studying environmental health issues in Australia or investigating ancient cultures in France, students can see the world and gain hands-on experience to prepare for a future-focused career through Global Education programs. The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences recommends these programs for students majoring in anthropology.

Attend Online

ASU offers this program in an online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. Applicants may view the program description and request more information here.



Program Contact Information

If you have questions related to admission, please click here to request information and an admission specialist will reach out to you directly. For questions regarding faculty or courses, please use the contact information below.