Anthropology

Through courses in archaeology, physical anthropology, cultural anthropology, and linguistic anthropology, students will develop critical thinking and analytical skills to understand the diversity of human experience. Graduates of the program will be well-prepared for further studies or careers in anthropology, as well as related fields such as archaeology, museum studies, and international development.

What is Anthropology?

Anthropology is a social science that studies human societies and cultures, both past and present, through a holistic and comparative perspective. Students with an Anthropology major concentrate in one of the following areas:

• Cultural Anthropology – the study of living peoples’ ways of life
• Biological/Physical Anthropology – the study of peoples and nonhuman primates as biological beings, both in the past and in the present
• Archaeology – the study of past peoples’ ways of life, through excavation and examination of artifacts
• Linguistic Anthropology – the study of culture and language and its past and continuing evolution.

Anthropologists use various research methods, such as fieldwork, interviews, and data analysis, to understand the complexity and diversity of human experience across time and space.

Is Anthropology right for Me?

Successful anthropology students typically possess the following traits:

• Cultural curiosity
• Critical thinking skills
• Empathy
• Strong communication skills
• Open-mindedness
• Interdisciplinary approach

Overall, students who possess a strong sense of curiosity, critical thinking skills, empathy, and an interdisciplinary approach to learning are well-suited for studying anthropology. Additionally, anthropology students should be interested in exploring the complexities and diversities of human behavior and culture and have a desire to learn how to make positive contributions to society through a deeper understanding of cultural differences.

Anthropology Degree

Anthropology Associate in Arts for Transfer

Anthropology is the scientific study of humanity, examining human biology and culture today and in the past; and biological and cultural change through time.

Paying For Education

You CAN Afford BC

Don’t let finances get in the way of your goals. Get help paying for college costs like tuition, books, or sometimes even the rent with a variety of financial aid options to help you reach your educational and career goals.

I Can Afford College

Anthropology Careers

An Anthropology Associate of Arts Degree for Transfer can prepare graduates for a variety of entry-level careers where they can apply their anthropological knowledge.  Fields such as cultural heritage management, museum studies, international development, international development, and environmental conservation regularly seek out anthropologists. Some common career options for graduates with an AA in anthropology include:

• User experience and design
• Urban sustainability
• Medical anthropology
• Tourism
• Museum curator
• Cultural resource management
• Environmental educator
• Park ranger or naturalist
• Archivist
• Non-profit program coordinator
• Anthropology researcher
• Community outreach specialist
• Archaeological field technician

While an AA degree can provide a strong foundation in anthropology, individuals who are interested in pursuing advanced careers in the field may need to pursue further education, such as a bachelor's or master's degree.

Beyond BC

Transfer to a University

Bakersfield College's Associate Degrees for Transfer (AA-T or AS-T) guarantee admission with junior standing to the CSU system with priority admission to your local CSU campus in a similar program. Consult a counselor and/or transfer specialist for details.

Transfer Pathways

Academic Department: Behavioral Sciences

Career & Learning Pathway: Social & Behavioral Sciences

Courses: Anthropology (ANTH)