51½ñÈÕ´ó¹Ï

Explore human cultures, societies, and origins with 51½ñÈÕ´ó¹Ï’s Anthropology program. This program helps students understand people across time and around the world through courses in archaeology, biological and physical anthropology, cultural anthropology, and linguistic anthropology. Students build strong critical thinking, communication, and analytical skills. Graduates are prepared to continue their studies at a four-year university or pursue careers in areas such as archaeology, museum studies, cultural resource management, community outreach, and international development.

What is Anthropology?

Anthropology is a social science that studies human beings and the full range of human experiences in the past and present. Students explore four major areas of the field:

• Cultural Anthropology – the study of living peoples’ ways of life
• Biological/Physical Anthropology – the study of humans and nonhuman primates as biological organisms, both in the past and in the present
• Archaeology – the study of past cultures through the excavation and examination of artifacts
• Linguistic Anthropology – the study of language and communication and how they change over time

Anthropologists use methods such as fieldwork, interviews, observation, and data analysis to understand cultural diversity and human behavior.

Is Anthropology right for Me?

Anthropology may be a good fit if you are curious about people, cultures, and how societies form and change. Students who enjoy this field often have:

• Cultural curiosity
• Strong critical thinking skills
• Empathy and interest in social issues
• Clear communication skills
• Open-mindedness
• An interdisciplinary approach to learning

Students who want to understand cultural differences and make positive contributions to their communities often find anthropology a rewarding path.

Anthropology Degree

The Anthropology Associate in Arts for Transfer degree gives students a strong foundation in human biology, human culture, archaeology, and the study of cultural change. The degree prepares students to transfer to CSU campuses that offer bachelor’s degrees in anthropology and related fields.

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 in Arts for Transfer can lead to entry-level roles in a variety of fields. Examples include:

• User experience and design
• Urban sustainability and planning
• Medical anthropology support roles
• Tourism and cultural interpretation
• Museum and collections work
• Cultural resource management
• Environmental educator
• Park ranger or naturalist
• Archivist or records assistant
• Nonprofit program coordination
• Community outreach
• Archaeological field technician
• Research assistant roles

Students who wish to advance further in the field may pursue a bachelor’s degree or graduate studies to qualify for specialized or higher-level positions.

Beyond BC

Transfer to a University

51½ñÈÕ´ó¹Ï'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: