On this page:
Major in anthropology and take courses that will enable you to look at the world through an “anthropological lens.” More specifically, courses in anthropology will equip you with the ability to:
The Bachelor of Arts program in anthropology focuses on and prepares you to be competent in three areas: cultural anthropology, biological anthropology, and archaeology.
Cultural Anthropology studies the interrelationship between culture and society to give meaning to the world around us. It explains the social and cultural similarities and differences demonstrated around the world. It analyzes and interprets human diversity through such dynamics as language, identity, and representation, family and religious systems, political and economic configurations, and the environments people have used to shape their societies. Careers can include academic appointments, market research, direction of nonprofits, cultural liaisons, civil affairs, policy making, and more.
Biological Anthropology focuses on biological variation among living and past human populations, including the evolutionary pathways that have led humans to adapt to a variety of environments over the past 4 million years. You will gain practical knowledge connected to areas such as biomedical research, animal behavior, and anatomy and physiology. Careers can include academic appointments, human factors research, forensic science, grant writing, museum work, genetic research, and more.
Archaeology examines human life using material remains of the past, whether 100,000 or only 100 years old. Courses convey substantive knowledge of past cultures and societies, artifact analysis, and archaeological fieldwork. Coursework in archaeology gives students a window into how studying our past can impact our future. Careers can include academic appointments, park ranger, field research, cultural resource management, historic preservation, and more.
You might be surprised to learn our students have many career options, though few will have “anthropologist” as their job title. An academic track involves more coursework (M.A. and/or Ph.D.) and often results in a career as a researcher and college professor. An applied track can require additional training but usually translates into a dynamic career using anthropological knowledge to solve “real-world” problems. What careers do our alumni undertake? We work closely with you to help you identify a career that meets your interests, goals, and skill sets. Below is a list from some of our most recent alumni.
View the anthropology program profile for sample occupations, average salary, and employment projections
A lot of student learning occurs outside of the classroom. Wright State works to provide opportunities for you to interact and apply what you are learning. Highlights include:
 Casey Simmons, who graduated from Wright State with a degree in anthropology, restores historic airplanes at the National Museum of the United States Air Force. |
 Wright State anthropologist Amelia Hubbard specializes in the study of past life ways through teeth. |
View Minor in Anthropology program requirements in the Academic Catalog.
View the Anthropology Minor Requirements checklist (PDF).
If you are a current student go to the WINGS Express Major/Minor change request form or talk to your advisor about adding a minor.
Finding the right college means finding the right fit. See all that the College of Liberal Arts has to offer by visiting campus.
