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Contemplate the roots of human experience. Engage new ideas and explore possible answers regarding the physical and cultural lineage of humankind. A degree in anthropology can open the door to new understandings of what it means to be human.
Anthropology is the study of how and why humans evolved and how evolutionary biological, social and cultural trajectories help explain the meaning of being human in past, present and future environments. The BS program in anthropology gives students an opportunity to master anthropological knowledge and skills, or the anthropologically relevant, through applications of the scientific method and quantitative methodologies.
In core and elective courses, the bachelor's degree program in anthropology allows students to explore problems that may require the use of theories and methods from diverse disciplines, including biology, global health, applied mathematics, psychology, economics, sociology, medicine, law and engineering. The curriculum provides many exciting, hands-on learning opportunities through laboratories, study abroad and field-based courses.
Students currently enrolled in the BS in anthropology may not pursue a concurrent degree with the Bachelor of Arts in anthropology or the BA in global health due to the high level of overlap in curriculum. Students should speak with their academic advisor for any further questions.
At A Glance
Anthropology, BS
- Offered by: The College of Liberal Arts & Sciences
- Location: Tempe
- First Required Math Course: MAT 251 - Calculus for Life Sciences
- Math Intensity: Moderate
Required Courses
A major map outlines a major's critical requirements, courses, and optimal course sequence and aids students in remaining on track to graduation.
While circumstances vary between students and their paths towards graduation (utilizing placement testing to fulfill required math or foreign language courses, fulfilling multiple General Studies requirements with one course, etc.), completing the courses listed in a major map fulfills all of the requirements for graduation.
Application requirements
All students are required to meet general university admission requirements:
Affording college
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Financial Aid
ASU has many financial aid options. Almost everyone, regardless
of income, can qualify for some form of financial aid. In fact,
more than 70 percent of all ASU students receive some form of
financial assistance every year.
Career outlook
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 large amounts of data. As the many spheres of human interaction expand globally, people trained in anthropology will increasingly be sought for their broad, holistic knowledge and perspective, which are the hallmarks of anthropology.
Some career opportunities include:
- acting as legal advocates in international cases
- analyzing and proposing policies
- conducting postgraduate academic research
- consulting for large and small private and public organizations
- curating cultural resources
- directing nonprofit organizations
- directing programs in the private or public sector
- managing cultural resources in public and private sectors
- modeling infectious diseases
- planning communities
- providing health care as nurses, doctors, or public or global health professionals
- teaching
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:
| Career | *growth | *median salary |
|---|---|---|
| Anthropologists | 4.5% | $62,280 |
| Anthropology and Archeology Teachers, Postsecondary | 10% | $81,580 |
| Compliance Managers | 8% | $105,610 |
| Investment Fund Managers | 8% | $105,610 |
| Regulatory Affairs Managers | 8% | $105,610 |
| Sociologists | 1.3% | $79,650 |
| Sociology Teachers, Postsecondary | 9.8% | $73,080 |
* Data obtained from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) under sponsorship of the U.S. Department of Labor/Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).
- Bright Outlook
- Green Occupation