Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology

Wayne State University’s Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Anthropology degree is a hands-on, research-focused program that emphasizes a cross-cultural education.

As an Anthropology major, you work on community projects in Detroit, conduct research at our anthropological museum or practice archeological skills through field work — these are just a few of the things you can take part in to solve the interconnected issues of our world.

Why Wayne State’s anthropology major?

• Develop a combination of STEM and humanities-based skills to enter pre-law, pre-med and related graduate study.
• Gain vital anthropological techniques needed to conduct archaeological excavations, ethnographic studies, surveys and interviews.
• Conduct ground-breaking research through the Gordon L. Grosscup Museum of Anthropology.

What is the study of anthropology?

Anthropology is the scientific study of humans, their behavior, cultures and societies. It seeks to understand the similarities and differences of people across time and cultures, emphasizing the human condition.

The study of anthropology includes four major areas of focus: archaeology, biological anthropology, cultural anthropology and linguistic anthropology.

While the entry-level education needed to become an anthropologist is a master’s degree, anthropology majors aren’t limited to the field of anthropology and often find careers across the industries of economics, education, government and public health.

Learning objectives

Wayne State University’s anthropology degree program teaches students to:

• Ethically engage in meaningful arguments across written and verbal formats using an array of necessary sources.
• Address real-world problems by utilizing evidence-based research that analyzes trends across complex data sets.
• Refine communication, critical thinking, cross-cultural competency, forensic analysis and research skills required to enter the field of anthropology, archaeology, related industries or graduate study.

B.A. in Anthropology program requirements and curriculum

To meet the requirements for degree completion, you must complete the following:

• College of Liberal Arts and Sciences group requirements
• University general education requirements
• Anthropology major requirements

With school approval, students may pursue a combined degree in dentistry, medicine, or law.

Courses

While your degree plan varies depending on your electives, you must enroll in the following anthropology courses:

•  Introductory courses:
  • Anthropology
  • Archaeology
  • Biological Anthropology
  • Sociocultural Anthropology
• Anthropological Methods
• Anthropological Writing
• History of Anthropology
• Language and Culture
• Capstone Seminar in Anthropology

View all available courses

Research opportunities with renowned faculty

The Department of Anthropology centers its research around four main areas: archaeology, biological anthropology, cultural anthropology and linguistic anthropology. To support innovation across these unique research areas, Wayne State University’s faculty members work closely with students to enrich academic research through hands-on learning.

Students may carve out their exciting research with a faculty member, their peers or individually by exploring several of the following locations:

• Gordon L. Grosscup Museum of Anthropology
• Material Cultures Lab
• Wayne State Humanities Clinic

Undergraduate work in anthropology provides an excellent foundation for graduate students in anthropology to discover their niche.

Explore anthropology research opportunities

Minor in Archaeology or Global Health and Social Medicine

To complement your anthropology major, the Department of Anthropology offers the following minors:

• Archaeology
• Global health and social medicine

​​​Direct path to your graduate degree in anthropology

Eligible anthropology majors may enroll in the Accelerated Graduate Enrollment (AGRADE) program to quickly earn their master’s or Ph.D. in Anthropology.

Review each of the graduate anthropology programs offered at Wayne State University:

• Master of Arts in Anthropology
• Ph.D. in Anthropology
• Ph.D. in Anthropology and Urban Sustainability
• Ph.D. in Social Work and Anthropology (SWAN)
• M.D./Ph.D. in Anthropology
• Graduate Certificate in Museum Practice

Anthropology bachelor’s degree career outlook

While the path to becoming an anthropologist or archaeologist requires your master’s degree, your B.A. in Anthropology builds the groundwork to gain entry into these careers. In many instances, employers allow you to start off as a research assistant or fieldworker as you earn your graduate degree.

In addition, anthropology majors may launch their careers in education, government, law, criminal justice, environmental science, health care and many other fields. 

To further support your success, the Department of Anthropology is proud to offer no-cost internships, professional training and job placement assistance throughout each academic year.

Financial aid and tuition

Wayne State University awards two scholarships for anthropology undergraduates and additional scholarships exclusively for students looking to continue their education through a graduate program within the Department of Anthropology.

Review all scholarships and financial aid offered at the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences or to start exploring your cost of tuition after financial aid, visit our net price calculator.

Learn more about Wayne State University’s anthropology major

Unearth diverse career opportunities in economics, education, government, public health or research or build the foundation for graduate study with a B.A. in Anthropology at Wayne State University.