M.A. in Anthropology: Cultural Concentration
Anthropology is the study of humanity in all times and places. Cultural anthropologists study humanity by immersing themselves in the everyday lives of people in particular societies and cultures. This might mean working alongside Andean villagers cleaning an irrigation ditch, sitting in a meeting in a neighborhood in Paris or Detroit where people are planning a local park or talking with a vodun priest in West Africa as he prepares for a religious ritual.
Wayne State's Master of Arts in Anthropology with a Concentration in Cultural Anthropology delves into the complexities of human cultures, social structures and belief systems. Students explore themes such as globalization, identity, migration and social justice while developing advanced ethnographic research and analytical skills.
About our program
Anthropology students at Wayne State receive thorough training in the concepts, theories and methods of cultural anthropology, including opportunities for participating in faculty research, study abroad and student research projects in the Detroit area and elsewhere. Cultural anthropologists in the department maintain both a strong urban presence and a global reach in their respective research activities. All of our graduate students perform local fieldwork as part of their training in research methods and many go on to write master's essays, theses or doctoral dissertations on Detroit or southeastern Michigan, while others conduct doctoral research in other areas of the United States and abroad.
Courses
Course offerings in cultural anthropology address critical contemporary topics such as world religions, globalization, capitalism, urban issues and the environment. Faculty with personal experience and expertise teach courses in particular regions such as Africa, Latin America, the Caribbean and others.
Career outlook for cultural anthropology students
Wayne State cultural anthropology graduates are well-equipped to pursue careers that require deep cultural insight and analytical expertise. Common career paths include roles in international development, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), education, community outreach, public policy and cultural resource management. Professionals with a background in cultural anthropology are highly sought after in industries like market research, social services, diversity and inclusion consulting and media.
Real-world applications of cultural anthropology include addressing global challenges such as migration, inequality and climate change. By applying ethnographic research methods and cultural analysis, graduates contribute to cross-cultural communication, advocacy and sustainable solutions for diverse communities. This degree prepares students for impactful careers in both public and private sectors, as well as for further academic research or teaching opportunities.
Research
We participate, observe and learn from those we work with about how they understand their world. Encompassing the whole range of human diversity, cultural anthropology allows us to question our own cultural 'common sense' and to see what may seem 'strange' as another way of being human. It also provides tools for analyzing inequality within and between societies.
Contact 💬
Anthropology Advising
anthropology@wayne.edu