华盛顿州立大学

Anthropology is the study of human life and diversity in all places and at all times, addressing the most fundamental questions about human origins and human nature. Anthropologists study the interactions between our biological heritage and our learned cultural heritages, both past and present.

Four subfields are available in the anthropology program:

Archaeology
Cultural anthropology
Linguistics
Physical anthropology

The most popular concentration is archaeology, for which Washington State University is internationally known.

Strengths of the program

The Anthropology Museum houses the largest repository of archaeological artifacts from the interior Northwest.
The flexible degree program allows students to concentrate in cultural anthropology, linguistics, archaeology, or physical anthropology—or receive a broad background in all four.
Anthropology students can join WSU faculty working throughout the world for cultural, linguistic, archaeological, and physical anthropological research.
The department hosts a regular lecture series where faculty, advanced graduate students, and visiting experts share their work.
Faculty are experts in biological anthropology, evolution, and archaeology.

Suggested strengths, interests, and preparation

The two most important things you'll need if you're going to do well and enjoy studying anthropology are a strong interest in people and culture and good research skills.

Careers in anthropology

Training in anthropology provides an excellent liberal arts background for many professions. WSU anthropology graduates are employed in museums, the National Park Service, archaeological crews, the Peace Corps, and other international development organizations.

Anthropology gives you an understanding of human diversity that is also useful in jobs that don’t require an anthropology degree. A major in anthropology is an excellent basis for teaching, legal professions, international business, foreign service, and graduate work in other social sciences or the humanities.

What you can do with a degree in anthropology:

Archaeologist, museum curator
Local and international environmental impact consultant
Forensic anthropologist
Government service
University professor, teacher
Writer, journalist
International business consultant
Cultural impact consultant

Skills you can market with a degree in anthropology:

Critical analysis of human behavior, organization, and development
Research skills in quantitative and qualitative data gathering and analysis
Cultural awareness and sensitivity
Intellectual curiosity
Ability to work solo or as a team member
Effective written and oral communication skills
Reading and listening comprehension
Time management and organization