Top 35 Most Affordable Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Anthropology for 2020

anthropology degree
Great Value Colleges - Most Affordable


Bachelor’s degrees in anthropology are among the most fascinating and diverse undergraduate degrees one can pursue. These programs cover a wide range of captivating topics, including biological anthropology, evolution, language and culture, race and gender, prehistory, and much more. Upon graduation from these dynamic academic offerings, students can pursue careers in a host of different industries and sub-fields; or, they can pursue graduate degrees in anthropology or related fields. In this ranking, we explore the 35 best anthropology bachelor’s degrees available today.
Some of the degree programs shown in this ranking are as follows:

  • Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology
  • Bachelor of Science in Anthropology
Methodology:

Tuition

  • Net Price Below $10,000: 4 points
  • Net Price Below $15,000: 3 points
  • Net Price Below $20,000: 2 points
  • Net Price Below $25,000: 1 point

Student to Faculty Ratio

  • Less than 20:1: 1 point
  • Less than 15: 1: 2 points
  • Less than 10: 1: 3 points

Return on Investment (ROI) According to Payscale.com

  • Top 500: 1 point
  • Top 300: 2 points
  • Top 150: 3 points

Student Support Network (faculty mentors/advisors, writing/technology support, etc.)— 1 point per item

Concentrations/Specializations – 1 point per item

Accreditation (School-Wide and Program-Specific) – 1 point per item

Campus Diversity Support Network – 1 point per item

“Wow” Factor – 1 point (anything that would mark a program as unique. Special qualities that make a program “stand out from the crowd”)

Ranking the Best Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Anthropology

To develop this ranking of the best bachelor of anthropology degree programs, our editors began with an initial pool of 69 schools and universities offering an on-campus bachelor’s degree in anthropology. We then applied a return-on-investment filter, eliminating those schools with rankings over 500 according to Payscale.com. We also removed any school with tuition costs over $20,000 per year. Finally, we applied the rating and ranking methodology above using information from each program’s website and from College Navigator. In the case of a tie, the more affordable school received the higher ranking.

#35—Western Michigan University

Kalamazoo, Michigan

Anthropology Bachelor’s Degree

Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1

Undergraduate Enrollment: 22,869

Points: 6

Western Michigan University offers a bachelor of anthropology degree program through its Institute for Intercultural and Anthropological Studies. As a requirement for the major, students will take courses in archaeology, cultural anthropology, linguistic anthropology, and biological anthropology. Graduates of the program are qualified for careers in applied anthropology, forensic science, human services, tourism, and more. WMU is also home to an Anthropology Student Organization. The Higher Learning Commission has accredited the school to offer this undergraduate degree in anthropology. U.S. News & World Report has identified the school as a top national university and a top public school.
Net Price: $15,863

#34—North Dakota State University

Fargo, North Dakota

Bachelor of Anthropology

Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 20:1

Undergraduate Enrollment: 11,984

SAT/ACT Score Requirement: 1100/22
Points: 6

North Dakota State University offers a bachelor’s degree program in anthropology from its Department of Sociology and Anthropology. Courses required for the major include Archaeology and Prehistory, Development of Anthropological Thought, Qualitative Methods in Cultural Anthropology, and Peoples of the World, for instance. Graduates of the program are prepared for work in a variety of different industries including education, social services, cultural resource management, government agencies, and more. The school is also home to an active Anthropology Club. NDSU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission to award this baccalaureate degree in anthropology. The school has received numerous accolades from U.S. News & World Report, including recognition as a top public school and top national university.
Net Price: $15,472

#33—The University of Toledo

Toledo, Ohio

BA in Anthropology

Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 21:1

Undergraduate Enrollment: 16,194

SAT/ACT Score Requirement: 830-910/15-16
Points: 7

The anthropology bachelor’s program from the University of Toledo is a Bachelor of Arts program offered through the College of Arts and Letters and the Department of Sociology and Anthropology. Core courses required for the degree include Human Evolution, Qualitative Approaches in Social Science, World Prehistory, and Cultural Anthropology, for instance. Students may also choose from elective classes like Medical Anthropology, North American Archaeology, and Anthropology of Religion. Independent study options are also available as are hands-on research opportunities through the school’s archaeology field school. The University of Toledo is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission to award this online bachelor of arts in anthropology. U.S. News & World Report has recognized the school as a top national university.
Net Price: $16,588

#32—Sonoma State University

Rohnert Park, California

BA Anthropology

Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 24:1

Undergraduate Enrollment: 8,667
Points: 7

The anthropology bachelor’s degree from Sonoma State University is a BA program offered through the university’s School of Social Sciences and the Department of Anthropology. Lower-division requirements for the degree include Introduction to Linguistic Anthropology, Introduction to Biological Anthropology, and Introduction to Archaeology. Students will also take upper division classes like Human Behavioral Ecology, Bioarchaeology, Sign Languages and Signing Communities, and Anthropology and the Environment, for instance. The school also offers a minor in anthropology. The WASC Senior College and University Commission has accredited Sonoma State to award this undergraduate degree in anthropology. U.S. News & World Report has placed the school among the top 20 public schools in the nation and the top 65 regional universities in the West.
Net Price: $16,119

#31—San Francisco State University

San Francisco, California

Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology

Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 23:1

Undergraduate Enrollment: 26,680

Points: 7

The bachelor’s in anthropology from San Francisco State University is a customizable degree program resulting in a Bachelor of Arts degree. Though no specific concentration options are defined, students can specialize their studies through the selection of electives. Students will begin the program with a foundation core, including classes like Introduction to Social and Cultural Anthropology, Foundations of Anthropology: History, and Introduction to Archaeology. Students will also take courses in theory and foundations and methods and practicum like Primate Behavior, Anthropological Statistics, and Ethnography of Urban Inequality, for instance. The WASC Senior College and University Commission has accredited the university to award this bachelor’s degree in anthropology. U.S. News & World Report has named SFSU a top national university.
Net Price: $14,964

#30—Texas Tech University

Lubbock, Texas

Bachelor’s Degree in Anthropology

Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 20:1

Undergraduate Enrollment: 30,737

SAT/ACT Score Requirements: 1180/24

Points: 8

Texas Tech University offers a bachelor’s in anthropology degree program with an optional concentration in Forensic Anthropology. Courses comprising the curriculum for the program include Global Forces and Local Peoples, Anthropology of Religion, Introduction to World Cultures and Ethnology, and Introduction to Archaeology, for example. Opportunities for individual study and field work are also available. In addition to the undergraduate major in anthropology, the school also offers a minor option. Texas Tech is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award this degree. U.S. News & World Report has identified the school as a top national university and ranked it among the top 100 public schools in the country.
Net Price: $15,531

#29—San Diego State University

San Diego, California

Bachelor’s in Anthropology

Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 28:1

Undergraduate Enrollment: 30,272

Points: 8

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San Diego State University offers a bachelor’s in anthropology from its College of Arts and Letters. The curriculum for the program includes lower division courses such as Human Biocultural Origins, Introduction to Socio-Cultural Anthropology, and Introduction to Archaeology and World History. Upper division classes are also required and include titles like Cultures Around the Globe, Exploring Primate Behavior, Music and Culture, and Archaeology of North America. No minor is required for the program. San Diego State is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission to award this BA in Anthropology. The school has been recognized in several categories by the U.S. News & World Report, including a top 60 public school ranking and a top 45 most innovative school ranking.
Net Price: $14,568

#28—Florida State University

Tallahassee, Florida

Anthropology Bachelor’s Degree

Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 22:1

Undergraduate Enrollment: 33,008
Points: 8

Florida State University

Florida State University offers both a BA and a BS degree in anthropology from its College of Arts & Sciences. Students enrolled in the program will take courses such as The Anthropology of Globalization, Childhood Around the World, Introduction to Underwater Archaeology, and World Prehistory, for example. An honors track, as well as opportunities for internships and independent studies, are also available. Florida State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award this undergraduate anthropology degree. U.S. News & World Report has identified FSU as a top 75 national university.
Net Price: $13,318

#27—Florida Atlantic University

Boca Raton, Florida

Anthropology BA

Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 24:1

Undergraduate Enrollment: 25,030
Points: 8

Florida Atlantic University’s bachelor of arts in anthropology degree program is offered through the Dorothy F. Schmidt College of Arts and Letters. Students enrolled in the program will take introductory courses such as Cultural Difference in a Globalized Society; Introduction to Anthropology; and Lost Tribes and Sunken Continents: Frauds, Myths, and Mysteries in Archaeology. The curriculum also includes advanced courses such as Anthropology of Peace and Violence, Human and Cultural Rights, Anthropological Linguistics, and Anthropology of Sex and Gender, for example. A study abroad program is also available. FAU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award this BA in Anthropology. U.S. News & World Report has identified the school as a top national university.
Net Price: $9,486

#26—CUNY—Queens College

Queens, New York

BA in Anthropology

Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 15:1

Undergraduate Enrollment: 16,680
Points: 8

The bachelor’s in anthropology from CUNY- Queens College features an optional concentration in Pre-Professional Anthropology. The curriculum for the program is comprised of introductory-level courses such as Introduction to Human Evolution, Introduction to Language, and Introduction to Archaeology. Students will also take intermediate-level and advanced classes, including Essentials of Cultural Anthropology, Peoples of the Contemporary United States, and Evolution of the Human Life Cycle. Students pursuing the Pre-Professional track will take a more rigorous course load including a class in anthropological statistics. The Middle States Commission on Higher Education has accredited Queens College to award this undergraduate degree in anthropology. The college has received a number of accolades from U.S. News & World Report, including top-tier rankings in their list of best regional universities in the North, top public schools, and best value schools in the country.
Net Price: $4,776

#25—San Jose State University

San Francisco, California

Bachelor of Anthropology

Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 27:1

Undergraduate Enrollment: 27,778
Points: 9

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The bachelor in anthropology degree program from San Jose State University is a comprehensive BA offering. Core courses for the major include Theories of Culture, Cultural Anthropology, and Archaeology. Students will also take more advanced courses such as Economic Anthropology, Organizational Cultures, Culture and Adaptation, and Environmental Anthropology, for instance. Graduates of the program are well-prepared for careers in various fields, including education, health care, business, and immigrant services. San Jose State is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission to award the anthropology bachelor of arts. U.S. News & World Report has ranked the school among the top 35 regional universities in the West as well as the top 55 best value schools.
Net Price: $14,519

#24—California State University- East Bay

Hayward, California

Anthropology BA

Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 27:1

Undergraduate Enrollment: 13,474
Points: 9

The bachelor’s degree in anthropology from California State University- East Bay is a Bachelor of Arts program offered through the school’s Department of Anthropology, Geography, and Environmental Studies. Students enrolled in the program can choose to concentrate their studies in one of two sub-disciplines: Archaeology and Biological Anthropology or Socio-Cultural and Applied Anthropology. Career opportunities for graduates include roles as museum curators, researchers, social workers, professors, ethnologists, and more. The university is home to the Clarence E. Smith Museum of Anthropology, which serves as an educational resource for students. The WASC Senior College and University Commission has accredited Cal State- East Bay to award this bachelor’s in anthropology. U.S. News & World Report has recognized the school as a top regional university in the West.
Net Price: $11,422

#23—University of South Florida

Tampa, Florida

Bachelor of Anthropology

Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 22:1

Undergraduate Enrollment: 31,772

SAT/ACT Score Requirement: 1220/27
Points: 9

university-of-south-florida

The anthropology bachelor’s degree offering from the University of South Florida is a Bachelor of Arts program offered through the school’s College of Arts and Sciences. The curriculum for the program emphasizes applied anthropology and features major core courses such as Biological Anthropology, Theories of Culture, Archaeology, and Linguistic Anthropology, for instance. Students may also choose from elective offerings such as Historical Archaeology, Forensic Anthropology, The Individual and Culture and Anthropology of Infectious and Contagious Diseases. Additional opportunities for students enrolled in the program include various research opportunities, internships, and an honors track. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges has accredited USF to award this anthropology bachelor’s degree. A top national university, the school has been ranked among the top 60 public schools in the country as well as the top 75 best value schools.
Net Price: $10,460

#22—California State University-Bakersfield

Bakersfield, California

Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology

Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 24:1

Undergraduate Enrollment: 8,814
Points: 9

California State University-Bakersfield offers a bachelor of arts in anthropology degree program that focuses on non-western cultures. Sample course titles comprising the curriculum for the program include Introduction to Cultural Anthropology, Research Methods in Anthropology, Primate Ecology, and Intermediate Field Archaeology, for instance. A minor in anthropology is also available. Students interested in joining an extracurricular organization can look into the school’s Anthropology Club. California State University-Bakersfield is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission to award this BA in Anthropology. The school has been ranked among the top 100 regional universities in the West by U.S. News and World Report. It has also placed Cal State Bakersfield among the top 40 public schools in the nation.
Net Price: $6,025

#21—Minnesota State University-Mankato

Mankato, Minnesota

Bachelor’s in Anthropology

Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 23:1

Undergraduate Enrollment: 12,782

ACT Score Requirement: 21
Points: 10

minnesota-state-university

Minnesota State University-Mankato offers a bachelor’s degree program in anthropology with both BS and BA tracks. The program also features undergraduate certificates in Museum Studies and Geoarchaeology. Classes comprising the major common core curriculum include Human Origins, Introduction to Anthropology Methods, Anthropological Theory, and People & Cultures of the World. A senior thesis is also required as a culminating element. Minnesota State- Mankato is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission to award this bachelor’s degree in anthropology. The school has been recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a top regional university in the Midwest as well one of the best public schools in the nation.
Net Price: $14,519

#20—University of Wyoming

Laramie, Wyoming

Anthropology BA

Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 15:1

Undergraduate Enrollment: 9,791

SAT/ACT Score Requirement: 1060/21
Points: 10

The bachelor of arts in anthropology program from the University of Wyoming features an optional minor in Museum Studies. Courses required for the major include History of Anthropological Thought, Introduction to Biological Anthropology, Ethnographic Methods in Anthropology, and Introduction to Anthropology Research Methods. Students enrolled in the program will also take upper division courses like Old World Archaeology, Human Osteology, Symbolic Anthropology, and Language and Gender. A variety of research and field school opportunities are also available to students. The school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission to award this degree. U.S. News & World Report has ranked the University of Wyoming among the top 100 public schools in the United States.
Net Price: $12,999

#19—California State University-San Marcos

San Marcos, California

Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology

Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 26:1

Undergraduate Enrollment: 14,615
Points: 10

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California State University-San Marcos offers a unique bachelor of arts in anthropology degree program with concentrations in Medical Anthropology and Indigenous Anthropology. Core requirements for the major include Cultural Anthropology, Human Origins, and Of Trowels and Trenches: An Introduction to Archaeology. Depending on their chosen concentration, students will take additional classes such as Medical Ethnography, Indigenous Health, Community Ethnobotany, and Local Archaeological Practice. Graduates of the program are qualified for careers in education, health services, public service, and more. CSU-San Marcos is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission to award this bachelor’s in anthropology. U.S. News & World Report has ranked the school among the top 85 regional universities in the West and the top 35 public schools in the nation.
Net Price: $12,614

#18—Weber State University

Ogden, Utah

Anthropology BS/BA

Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 21:1

Undergraduate Enrollment: 27,111
Points: 10

The versatile bachelor’s in anthropology degree program from Weber State University features both a BS and a BA track as well as an optional specialization in Archeology. Required program courses include Introduction to Anthropology, Social Statistics, Anthropological Theory, and Anthropological Research Methods. Six credit hours of foreign language courses are also required for the BA credential. Elective classes include Principles of Archaeology, Peoples and Cultures of the World, and Language and Culture, for instance. Study abroad and field school opportunities are available to enrolled students. Weber State is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities to award this undergraduate degree in anthropology. The school has been identified by U.S. News & World Report as a top regional university in the West.
Net Price: $10,951

#17—California State University-Fullerton

Fullerton, California

Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology

Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 25:1

Undergraduate Enrollment: 35,162
Points: 10

California State University-Fullerton offers a bachelor of arts in anthropology degree from its Division of Anthropology. The 45-credit hour curriculum for the program features core courses such as History of Anthropology, Contemporary Anthropology, Introduction to Archaeology, and Introduction to Cultural Anthropology, for example. Students will also take upper-division courses such as Human Variation, Medical Anthropology, Anthropology of Risk, and Anthropological Linguistics. Through the selection of elective classes, students have the opportunity to specialize their studies in one of three concentration areas: Archaeology, Cultural Anthropology, or Evolutionary Anthropology. Cal State-Fullerton is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission to award this BA in Anthropology. U.S. News & World Report has identified the school as a top national university as well as a top public school.
Net Price: $8,274

#16—California State University- Dominguez Hills

Dominguez Hills, California

Bachelor in Anthropology

Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 25:1

Undergraduate Enrollment: 13,278
Points: 10

The bachelor’s in anthropology from California State University-Dominguez Hills is offered through its College of Arts and Sciences. Students enrolled in the program can choose from both a general track and an Archaeology track. An undergraduate certificate in Cultural Resource Management is also available. Career opportunities for graduates include positions in a variety of different industries and fields, including medical research, environmental consulting, education, international business, tourism, and more. Cal State University-Dominguez Hills has been accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission to award this bachelor’s degree in anthropology. The school has been ranked among the top 100 regional universities in the West and the top 35 public schools in the nation by U.S. News & World Report.
Net Price: $4,533

#15—California State University-Los Angeles

Los Angeles, California

Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology

Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 25:1

Undergraduate Enrollment: 24,818
Points: 10

The bachelor’s degree in anthropology from California State University-Los Angeles is a 120-credit hour BA in Anthropology. Students enrolled in the program will take lower division courses such as Language and Society, Biological Anthropology, and Introduction to Archaeology. Upper division courses include History of Ethnological Theory, The History of Archaeological Thought, and Methods and Techniques in Biological Anthropology. Twelve units of upper-division elective courses are also required. In addition to the undergraduate degree in anthropology, the university also offers a minor as well as a master’s degree in the discipline. Many experiential learning opportunities are available to students as are opportunities to join extracurricular organizations such as the Association of Student Anthropologists and the Society for Biological Anthropology, for example. Cal State-Los Angeles is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission to award this anthropology bachelor’s degree. U.S. News & World Report has ranked the school among the top 55 regional universities in the West and the top 15 public schools in the country.

Net Price: $4,403

#14—Brigham Young University—Provo

Provo, Utah

Bachelor’s in Anthropology

Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 20:1

Undergraduate Enrollment: 31,233
Points: 11

The bachelor of arts degree in anthropology from Brigham Young University-Provo features specializations in both Archaeology and Sociocultural Anthropology. Program requirements include courses such as Foundations of Anthropological Theory, Foundations of Social Theory, and Social/Cultural Anthropology. Students in the Archaeology track will take additional classes in both Old World and New World Archaeology, including Archaeology of Roman Civilization, Archaeological Cultures of North America, Formative Mesoamerica, and Special Topics in Regional Anthropology. Those students pursuing the Sociocultural Anthropology track will take courses like Chinese Culture and Society, Peoples of the Middle East, Psychological Anthropology, and Economic and Political Institutions. Both concentrations require a field experience and thesis. A dual degree program is also available. BYU-Provo is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities to award these bachelor’s in anthropology degrees. U.S. News & World Report has ranked the school among the top 70 national universities and the top 15 best value schools.
Net Price: $13,120

#13—California State University-San Bernardino

San Bernardino, California

Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology

Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 30:1

Undergraduate Enrollment: 18,327
Points: 11

The comprehensive bachelor of anthropology degree offered by California State University-San Bernardino requires 180 credit hours of coursework. Required core courses include Anthropological Theory, Introduction to Anthropology: Human Evolution, and Biological Anthropology Laboratory. Students will also take upper-level courses in anthropology such as Historical Archaeology, Human Biological Variance and the Concept of Race, Gender and Language, and Community Engaged Research Methods. An integrated capstone seminar is also required at the culmination of the program. Additional opportunities for students include independent studies, internships, and an honors track. WASC Senior College and University Commission has accredited Cal State-San Bernardino to award this undergraduate degree in anthropology. The school has been awarded several distinctions from U.S. News & World Report, including top-tier rankings in the publication’s list of best regional universities in the West, best value schools, and top public schools.
Net Price: $8,586

#12—California State University-Stanislaus

Turlock, California

Bachelor of Anthropology

Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 22:1

Undergraduate Enrollment: 9,057
Points: 11

California State University-Stanislaus offers a bachelor’s in anthropology degree from its College of the Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences. The Bachelor of Arts degree program features three concentration options: Cultural Anthropology, Archaeology, and Biological Anthropology. The curriculum for the program emphasizes experiential learning and is comprised of major core courses such as World Archaeology, Human Evolution, and Growth of Anthropology. Students will also take anthropological methods classes such as Visual Anthropology, Archaeological Field Methods, and Bodies of Evidence. Career opportunities for graduates include museum curator, evidence technician, forensic specialist, public health specialist, and more. The WASC Senior College and University Commission has accredited the university to award this BA in Anthropology. U.S. News & World Report has ranked CSU-Stanislaus a top 10 public school and a top 50 regional university in the West.
Net Price: $6,930

#11—The City College of New York

New York, New York

Anthropology Bachelor’s Degree

Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 14:1

Undergraduate Enrollment: 13,210
Points: 11

city-college-of-new-york

The City College of New York offers a robust bachelor’s degree in anthropology program with an optional concentration in Medical Anthropology. Core courses required for the major include Cross-Cultural Perspectives, Human Origins, Languages and Dialects in Cross-Cultural Perspectives, and Archaeology. Advanced course selections include Class, Ethnicity, and Gender; Cultural Change and Modernization; Violation of Human Rights; and Language and Power. Independent study options are available. The City College of New York is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education to award this anthropology bachelor’s degree. U.S. News & World Report has ranked the school among the top 60 regional universities in the North. The publication has also placed the college among the top 15 public schools in the nation.
Net Price: $4,674

#10—CUNY—Hunter College

New York, New York

Bachelor’s Degree in Anthropology

Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 12:1

Undergraduate Enrollment: 16,844
Points: 11

hunter-college

The bachelor of anthropology degree program from CUNY-Hunter College is an interdisciplinary BA program. Core requirements comprising the curriculum for this program include Linguistics, Biological Anthropology, History of Anthropological Theory, and Archaeology. Advanced course selections include Sex and Gender in Anthropological Perspective, Archaeology of North America, History of Anthropological Theory, and Peoples and Cultures of Native North America. A combined BA/MA program in anthropology is also available. The Middle States Commission on Higher Education has accredited Hunter College to award this Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology degree. U.S. News & World Report has identified the school as one of the top 65 best value schools and the top 25 regional universities in the North.
Net Price: $4,332

#9—California State University-Sacramento

Sacramento, California

Bachelor’s in Anthropology

Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 26:1

Undergraduate Enrollment: 28,454
Points: 12

The anthropology bachelor’s program from California State University-Sacramento features three concentrations: General Anthropology; Culture, Language, and Society; and Archaeological and Biological Anthropology. Despite the concentration they choose, all students will take core courses, including both lower-division and upper-division classes. Sample core course titles include Laboratory in Biological Anthropology, Ethnographic Analysis, Introduction to Archaeology, and North American Prehistory. Students will also take elective classes aligned with their chosen concentration such as Archaeological Methods and Theory, Anthropology of War, and Origins of Agriculture. The WASC Senior College and University Commission has accredited Cal State- Sacramento to award this undergraduate degree in anthropology. U.S. News & World Report has placed the school among the top 75 regional universities in the West as well as the top 20 public schools in the country.
Net Price: $9,885

#8—California State University-Fresno

Fresno, California

Bachelor’s in Anthropology

Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 23:1

Undergraduate Enrollment: 22,261
Points: 12

The Bachelor of Anthropology program from California State University-Fresno is offered through the university’s College of Social Sciences. The program features emphases in Archaeology, Cultural Anthropology, and Physical Anthropology. Core requirements for the program include Introduction to Cultural Anthropology, Critical Thinking in Anthropology, Introductory Fieldwork in Archaeology, and Introduction to Prehistory and Physical Anthropology. Students will also take part in fieldwork opportunities made available by the school’s Institute of Public Anthropology. The WASC Senior College and University Commission has accredited Cal State-Fresno to award this bachelor of anthropology degree. U.S. News & World Report has recognized the school as a top national university and top public school.
Net Price: $6,771

#7—California State University-Chico

Chico, California

BA in Anthropology

Website

Student to Faculty Ratio: 25:1

Undergraduate Enrollment: 16,710
Points: 13

California State University-Chico

California State University-Chico offers a comprehensive, 120-credit hour Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology program. Students enrolled in the program will choose to concentrate their studies in one of four distinct areas of the discipline: Physical Anthropology, Archaeology, Cultural Anthropology, and Museum Studies. Major core courses include Formal Methods for Anthropology, Physical Anthropology, Language and Culture, and Cultural Anthropology. All students will also take methods classes like Field Methods in Ethnography, Visual Anthropology, and Human Identification. In addition to the concentration options, an Honors track is also available. Cal State-Chico is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission to award this anthropology bachelor’s degree. The school has been named a top 50 regional university in the West, according to U.S. News & World Report. The publication has also ranked the university among the top 10 public schools nationwide.
Net Price: $14,156

#6—Saint Cloud State University

Saint Cloud, Minnesota

BA/BS in Anthropology

Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 21:1

Undergraduate Enrollment: 13,128
Points: 13

St Cloud State University

The bachelor’s degree program in anthropology from Saint Cloud State University features both Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts tracks. The curriculum for the program is comprised of an anthropology core, including classes such as Introductory Archaeology, Introductory Bioanthropology, and Introduction to Linguistic Anthropology. Students will also take classes in the theory and practice of anthropology and choose sequences in Research, Cultural Anthropology, or Archaeology. A minor in anthropology is also available. The university is home to a Biological Anthropology Lab and an Archaeology Lab, which provides unique experiential learning opportunities for students. Student organizations are also available to students in this discipline. SCSU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission to award the undergraduate degree in anthropology. U.S. News & World Report has identified the school as one of the leading regional universities in the Midwest and has ranked it among the top 40 public schools nationwide.
Net Price: $13,816

#5—California State Polytechnic University-Pomona

Pomona, California

Bachelor of Anthropology

Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 29:1

Undergraduate Enrollment: 24,319
Points: 13

The bachelor of anthropology program from California State Polytechnic University-Pomona is offered through the school’s College of Letters, Arts, and Social Sciences and the Department of Geography and Anthropology. The offering features three tracks: a general track, a track in Archaeology, and a track in Applied Anthropology. All three tracks share a required major core, featuring course titles like Language and Culture, Introduction to Biological Anthropology, Social Anthropology, and History of Anthropological Theory, for example. Depending on which concentration they choose, students may take additional classes like The Anthropology of Gender, Cultural Resource Management, and Health Systems Past and Present. Cal State Poly-Pomona is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission to award this BS in Anthropology. U.S. News & World Report has identified the school as a top 30 regional university in the West and one of the 5 best public schools in the nation.
Net Price: $12,744

#4—California State University-Long Beach

Long Beach, California

Bachelor’s in Anthropology

Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 25:1

Undergraduate Enrollment: 31,566
Points: 13

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The bachelor of anthropology degree from California State University-Long Beach is a BA in Anthropology featuring specialization options in Archaeology, Biological Anthropology, Cultural Anthropology, and Linguistic Anthropology. The curriculum is comprised of major core courses such as Language and Culture, Language and Gender in Cross-Cultural Perspective, Methods in Linguistic Anthropology, and Human Evolution. Depending on the specialization they chose, students may take additional classes, including Human Growth and Development, Archaeological Artifacts Analyses, Culture and Communication, and Education Across Cultures. The WASC Senior College and University Commission has accredited Cal State- Long Beach to award this bachelor’s degree in anthropology. The university has been named a top 30 national university and top 5 public school by U.S. News & World Report.
Net Price: $9,477

#3—California State University-Northridge

Northridge, California

BA in Anthropology

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Student to Faculty Ratio: 26:1

Undergraduate Enrollment: 35,839
Points: 13

California State University-Northridge offers a top bachelor’s degree in anthropology from its College of Social and Behavioral Sciences and the Department of Anthropology. Once enrolled, students can opt to specialize their studies in one of four concentration areas: Cultural Anthropology, Biological Anthropology, Archaeology, and Applied Anthropology. Required major courses include Physical Anthropology, Ethnographic Research Methods, Diversity in the United States, and Anthropological Thought, for instance. Students will also take concentration-specific classes such as Comparative Social Organization, Human Paleontology, Environmental Justice and Health, and Anthropology of the Arts. Minors in Anthropology and Applied Anthropology are also available. Cal State–Northridge is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission to award this anthropology bachelor’s degree. A top regional university in the West according to U.S. News & World Report, the school has also been placed among the publication’s top 25 public schools nationwide.
Net Price: $8,549

#2—University of Minnesota-Duluth

Duluth, Minnesota

Bachelor’s in Anthropology

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Student to Faculty Ratio: 18:1

Undergraduate Enrollment: 10,118
Points: 14

The bachelor’s in anthropology degree program from the University of Minnesota-Duluth is offered through the school’s College of Liberal Arts. The program features four broad areas of emphasis: archaeology, biological anthropology, sociocultural anthropology, and linguistic anthropology. Numerous sub-specialties are also available within these areas of emphasis, including Historic Linguistics, Nonverbal Communication, Applied Anthropology, and Philosophical Anthropology, for instance. Sample course titles comprising the program’s curriculum include The Human Fossil Record, Understanding Cultures, Introduction to Archaeology, and Contemporary Perspectives in Cultural Anthropology. A capstone project and writing intensive are also required for the major. The University of Minnesota-Duluth is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission to award this undergraduate anthropology degree. U.S. News & World Report has awarded the school numerous top-tier rankings, including placement in the top 10 ranking of public schools in the country.
Net Price: $16,993

#1—SUNY College at Geneseo

Geneseo, New York

Bachelor’s in Anthropology

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Student to Faculty Ratio: 19:1

Undergraduate Enrollment: 5,556
Points: 15

suny-geneseo

SUNY College at Geneseo offers a dynamic bachelor of anthropology program featuring five optional concentrations: Socio-Medical Anthropology, Archaeology and Material Culture, Physical/Biological Anthropology, Cultural Studies, and Linguistic Anthropology. Courses required for the major include titles such as Introduction to Cultural Anthropology, Language and Culture, and Human Ecology. Students enrolled in the program are encouraged to participate in study abroad programs. The school is also home to a chapter of Lambda Alpha, the National Honor Society in Anthropology. SUNY College at Geneseo is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education to award this anthropology bachelor’s degree. The school has been awarded top-tier rankings from U.S. News & World Report for its standings as a top regional university in the North, a best value school, and a top public school.
Net Price: $17,673

About Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Anthropology

Overview

The field of anthropology attracts prospective students who are interested in learning about humanity and cultures throughout time. Because this particular academic discipline is so broad, students with a bachelor’s degree in anthropology have a diverse list of career opportunities available to them after graduation. There are anthropologists working in law, education, public health, marketing, and many others who have pursued higher education in anthropology and archaeology.

The bachelor’s degree program in anthropology is as diverse as its subject matter. Your mileage may vary depending on your specific degree and concentration, which we will expand on later in this article, but most degree programs come in at 120 credit hours and will take four years to complete. There are also accelerated options available that allow students to take on a larger course load per semester and earn their credentials in less time.

Admissions Requirements for Bachelor’s Degree in Anthropology Programs

Gaining admission to a bachelor’s degree program in anthropology can be challenging, but with the right qualifications, you can make it happen. At the very minimum, you’ll need a high school diploma or equivalent and a decent grade point average. Most programs also require that you submit ACT or SAT scores, and in some cases, you’ll need to submit both. Other requirements for admission may include:

  • Personal essays or statements
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Formal interview

Keep in mind that admissions criteria can vary significantly from one bachelor’s in anthropology program to the next. It’s best to speak to an admissions counselor at the school you’re interested in attending for specific information.

How to Choose A Bachelor’s Degree in Anthropology Program

Choosing a bachelor’s degree in any subject is a difficult endeavor, and a bachelor’s in anthropology is no exception. There are many factors to consider in order to choose the right program for your schedule, career aspirations, and academic interests. While the journey towards the discovery of the ideal undergraduate anthropology program may differ for everyone, we’ll offer some tips for arriving at the best possible decision.

Consider Your Schedule

Does your schedule allow for a traditional on-campus program? These offerings are typically full-time programs that require four years of study. While these degree options are ideal for recent high school graduates, they may not be suitable for working professionals or other non-traditional college students. Fortunately for these students, flexible bachelor of anthropology degree programs do exist. Some of these options include part-time, evening, online, and hybrid formats.

Analyze Your Career Options

It’s a good idea to keep your career options and preferences in mind when choosing a bachelor’s degree program in anthropology. Since different programs offer different concentrations and specialization options, some may be more in line with your future plans than others. If you’re truly undecided about the specific work you’d like to do in the field, then a more general program or track is advised.

Experiential Learning Opportunities

The field of anthropology is very hands-on. In order to be prepared for work after graduation, you’ll need a bachelor of anthropology program that provides you with plenty of opportunities to apply what you learn in your classes, preferably in a real-world setting. Look for programs that offer anthropology/archaeology field schools, study abroad programs, internship opportunities, and the like. You may also decide to give preference to colleges and universities that house anthropological research institutes and laboratories.

Keep Cost in Mind

There’s no standard price tag for an anthropology bachelor’s degree. Some programs may cost tens of thousands of dollars more than others, so it’s best to be budget-conscious when exploring different colleges and universities. Don’t forget about your financial aid options as well, though. Some programs may offer scholarships or grants for eligible students to help foot the bill.

Bachelor’s in Anthropology Concentrations

As we mentioned, anthropology is a broad field of study. As such, it allows for numerous specialization opportunities. Students can opt to customize their degree by choosing a concentration. In this section, we’ll discuss some of these concentration options in detail.

Forensic Anthropology

A bachelor’s degree in anthropology with a concentration in Forensic Anthropology provides students with a specific skillset, preparing them for careers as crime lab technicians, crime scene investigators, autopsy technicians, and more. Coursework may include classes such as the following:

Introduction to Forensic Anthropology

Field Methods in Forensic Anthropology

Forensic Chemistry

Forensic Archaeology

Medical Anthropology

Medical anthropology is a concentration option for anthropology bachelor’s students that combines the study of anthropology with skills in the healthcare industry. Topics for this type of degree will vary, but some sample course titles are listed below to give you a general idea of what you may study when you opt for this specialty.

Global Mental Health

Topics in Medical Anthropology

Evolution and Genetic Variation in Human Populations

Anthropology and Global Health

Cultural Anthropology

A cultural anthropology concentration allows bachelor of anthropology students to focus on art, technology, and social organization to understand human culture. Typically, cultural anthropologists work in higher education as professors. Some cultural anthropologists will work for nonprofit organizations or private businesses after graduation. Examples of course titles you may encounter when pursuing a cultural anthropology concentration include:

From Sacred to Salvation: The Place of Religion in Human Societies

Visual Culture

Music, Social Life, and Scenes

Anthropology of Sports

Physical Anthropology

Areas of study covered by a Physical Anthropology concentration include genetics, osteology, and public health. Many students in this concentration go on to teach anatomy or research in medical schools. Outside of academia, biological anthropologists can be found working in zoos or museums. Biological anthropology is also closely tied to forensics, as experience studying DNA is helpful in identifying human remains at crime scenes.

Here are a few examples of courses in this concentration:

Evolutionary Medicine

Human Osteology

Primate Behavior and Ecology

Race and Human Evolution

Museum Studies

A bachelor of anthropology with a concentration in Museum Studies is ideal for students who are primarily interested in working in museums as curators or docents. Museum studies focuses on archaeology and art history as well as professional practices as a museum worker.

Some examples of courses in this specialization include:

Material Worlds of the Middle Ages

Archaeological Survey Methods

Introduction to African Art

Linguistic Anthropology

Linguistic anthropologists look at human culture through the lens of language. They largely focus on morphology and the documentation of indigenous languages. The linguistic concentration is ideal for bachelor’s in anthropology students who plan to become archivists or pursue careers in communication. Linguistic anthropologists also commonly work in research or as social scientists.

Concentration-specific coursework in linguistic anthropology typically includes course titles like the following:

Language and Culture

Talk as Social Action

Introduction to Sociolinguistics

Evolution of Language

Frequently-Asked Questions About Bachelor of Anthropology Programs

It’s normal to have some questions before embarking on your path to a bachelor’s degree in anthropology. Below, we’ll address some of the most common questions about degree programs of this kind. Keep in mind that these are general questions and answers. If you have specific questions about a particular school or program, it’s best to address those with an admissions counselor.

Q: How long does it take to complete a bachelor’s in anthropology program?

A: Typically, an undergraduate bachelor’s in anthropology degree program takes four years to complete. Accelerated options may be available, allowing students to earn their credentials in less time.

Q: Are part-time bachelor’s in anthropology programs available?

A: Yes. Though most on-campus programs require students to attend classes full-time, there are exceptions. Some bachelor’s degree in anthropology programs are designed for working professionals and busy adults who require part-time options.

Q: Can I complete a bachelor of anthropology degree program online?

A: Yes. There are an increasing number of online anthropology bachelor’s programs available. These convenient offerings allow students to complete coursework from home on their own time.

Q: What will I study in a bachelor’s degree program in anthropology?

A: Bachelor’s degree programs typically include a variety of courses in the four subfields of anthropology: biological anthropology, cultural anthropology, archaeology, and linguistic anthropology. Your plan of study may vary depending on what (if any) concentration or specialization you choose.

Most Frequently-Searched Bachelor of Anthropology Degree Programs

George Washington University: BA in Anthropology: George Washington University offers a Bachelor of Arts program with a major in Anthropology from its Columbian College of Arts and Sciences. An honors track is available for advanced students.

University of Texas-San Antonio: Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology: The BA in Anthropology from the University of Texas- San Antonio emphasizes real-world application of skills. Enrolled students have numerous opportunities for fieldwork, internships, and independent studies.

Wake Forest University: Bachelor’s in Anthropology: The undergraduate anthropology degree program from Wake Forest University is a robust academic offering. Students enrolled in this program have opportunities to participate in field schools in North Carolina as well as in Nepal and Portugal.

Weber State University: Bachelor of Anthropology: Weber State University offers both a Bachelor of Arts (BA) and Bachelor of Science (BS) in Anthropology. Students enrolled in either program can opt to pursue a concentration in Archaeology.

California State University-Long Beach: Anthropology BA: The curriculum for the anthropology bachelor’s offering from CSU-Long Beach features unique course titles such as Pyramids, Tombs, and Treasures: Wonders of the Past and New Media Ethnography, for example.

Career Questions for Bachelor’s in Anthropology Degrees

Q: What jobs will I qualify for with a bachelor’s degree in anthropology?
A: A bachelor’s degree in anthropology qualifies students for many entry-level positions in the field as well as positions in related industries. Some common job titles for professionals with this credential include curator, policy analyst, cartographer, conservator, museum worker, archivist, and more.

Q: How much will I make with an anthropology bachelor’s degree?

A: Your salary will vary based on numerous factors including your employer and job title. According to Payscale.com, the average salary for professionals with a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology is approximately $56,000 a year.

Q: Are professionals with a bachelor’s degree in anthropology in demand?

A: Yes. Many professions that require a bachelor’s degree in anthropology are growing at a steady rate. For example, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that jobs for museum workers and curators are expanding faster than average.

Q: What professional organizations are available in anthropology?

A: There are many professional organizations and associations open to graduates of bachelor’s in anthropology programs. Some of these are listed below:

National Association for the Practice of Anthropology (NAPA)

Council on Anthropology and Education

Society for Applied Anthropology

Society for Medical Anthropology

Society for Linguistic Anthropology

Society of Forensic Anthropologists

American Anthropological Association

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