COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY · UNITED STATES
Master of Arts in Anthropology
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- #5U.S. Anthropology Programs in Research Funding and Spending (NSF HERD Survey)
- 30-35Semester Credits Required
- Thesis or Portfolio OptionDegree Completion Pathways
- Funding OpportunitiesGraduate Teaching Assistantships available for highly qualified candidates
The Master of Arts in Anthropology at Colorado State University (CSU) is designed to prepare students for doctoral programs or for careers outside of academia. The program leverages the faculty's diverse research interests in cultural anthropology, archaeology, and biological anthropology, along with human and physical geography. Students can choose to complete their degree through a thesis or a portfolio option. The department is recognized for its strong research funding, ranking #5 among U.S. Anthropology Programs in Research Funding and Spending according to the NSF HERD Survey. Learning objectives include demonstrating a strong grasp of anthropological theory and methods, conducting independent research, showing awareness of human diversity, and developing the academic foundation for PhD studies or related professional roles. Students pursuing the thesis option (Plan A) must complete a minimum of 30 semester credits, culminating in a research project and defense. The non-thesis option (Plan B) requires a minimum of 35 credits, focusing on a broader distribution of courses and a portfolio defense to demonstrate comprehensive understanding.
Curriculum
The program offers two plans: Plan A (Thesis) requiring a minimum of 30 credits and Plan B (Non-Thesis/Portfolio) requiring a minimum of 35 credits. Both plans involve core courses, methods courses, electives within and outside of Anthropology, and thesis or portfolio work.
- Year 1 / Core Requirements
- Development of Anthropological TheoryANTH 500
- Methods Course (selected in consultation with advisor)
- Elective outside student's subfield (500-700 level)
- Elective from a department outside Anthropology
- Elective Courses (integrated with program of study)
- Additional Credits for Independent Study or Thesis Work (Plan A)
- Additional Credits for Independent Study (Plan B)ANTH 695
Careers
The MA in Anthropology prepares graduates for advanced doctoral studies or for a variety of non-academic careers.
- Doctoral Program Entry
- Non-academic Careers in Anthropology-related fields
Frequently asked questions
- What are the admission requirements for the MA in Anthropology program?
- Prospective students must refer to the Graduate and Professional Bulletin for comprehensive general graduate admission requirements. Specific departmental requirements should also be consulted.
- How can I fund my studies in the MA in Anthropology program?
- Funding opportunities include Graduate Teaching Assistantships, which cover tuition and provide a stipend for highly qualified candidates. Competitive grants and scholarships are also available for graduate research.
- What is the duration of the MA in Anthropology program?
- The program can be completed with a minimum of 30 semester credits through the thesis option (Plan A) or a minimum of 35 credits through the non-thesis/portfolio option (Plan B).
- What are the tuition fees for international students in the MA in Anthropology program?
- International student tuition fees are typically higher than resident tuition. Specific rates vary by program and credit hours and can be found on the CSU Graduate Tuition pages.
- What career paths are available after completing the MA in Anthropology?
- The MA in Anthropology prepares graduates for advanced doctoral studies or for non-academic careers in anthropology-related fields.
- When is the application deadline for the MA in Anthropology program?
- Applications are typically due six months prior to the intended first registration, as published by the Graduate School.
Entry requirements
General Graduate Admission RequirementsRefer to the Graduate and Professional Bulletin for comprehensive requirements.
Highly qualified candidates may be eligible for graduate teaching assistantships covering tuition and providing a stipend. Incoming students are automatically considered. Seed grants and research scholarships are available on a competitive basis.
Fees
Tuition (international)Please refer to the CSU Graduate Tuition pages for specific details as rates vary by program and credit hours. International student tuition is typically higher than resident tuition.
Tuition (home)Please refer to the CSU Graduate Tuition pages for specific details as rates vary by program and credit hours. Colorado resident tuition is lower than non-resident tuition.
LivingEstimated expenses for graduate students are available on the CSU Financial Aid website.
Tuition and fees vary based on residency status, credit hours, program of study, and year of study. Opportunities for financial support include graduate assistantships, scholarships, and other aid.
How to apply
1. Submit Online ApplicationComplete the online application for admission.
2. Appointment of AdvisorAn advisor should be appointed before the first registration.
3. Selection of Graduate CommitteeSelect your graduate committee before the start of your fourth regular semester.
4. Filing of Program of StudyFile your official program of study (GS Form 6) before the start of your fourth regular semester.
5. Final ExaminationSchedule and complete your final examination (thesis defense or portfolio defense) according to Graduate School deadlines.
Scholarships
Graduate Teaching AssistantshipsCovers tuition and provides a monthly stipend
Anthropology Scholarship EndowmentVaries
Student Research ScholarshipsVaries
Frequently asked questions
What are the admission requirements for the MA in Anthropology program?
+
Prospective students must refer to the Graduate and Professional Bulletin for comprehensive general graduate admission requirements. Specific departmental requirements should also be consulted.
How can I fund my studies in the MA in Anthropology program?
+
Funding opportunities include Graduate Teaching Assistantships, which cover tuition and provide a stipend for highly qualified candidates. Competitive grants and scholarships are also available for graduate research.
What is the duration of the MA in Anthropology program?
+
The program can be completed with a minimum of 30 semester credits through the thesis option (Plan A) or a minimum of 35 credits through the non-thesis/portfolio option (Plan B).
What are the tuition fees for international students in the MA in Anthropology program?
+
International student tuition fees are typically higher than resident tuition. Specific rates vary by program and credit hours and can be found on the CSU Graduate Tuition pages.
What career paths are available after completing the MA in Anthropology?
+
The MA in Anthropology prepares graduates for advanced doctoral studies or for non-academic careers in anthropology-related fields.
When is the application deadline for the MA in Anthropology program?
+
Applications are typically due six months prior to the intended first registration, as published by the Graduate School.