Applied Anthropology (MS)

Summary

The program is designed to provide an advanced education with an opportunity to develop skills within the field. Applied Anthropology utilizes anthropological methods and theories to solve practical problems. The program is centered on a dedication to a four-field approach that provides a strong foundation for our students while they pursue specialization within one of the four fields. Graduates of our Master’s program find work in the public and private sectors or go on to further their education in PhD programs across the country.

Catalog Year

2024-2025

Degree

Master of Science

Major Credits

30

Total Credits

30

Locations

Mankato

Career Cluster

People and Cultures

Apply

Program Requirements

Common Core

A brief intensive hands-on introduction to an anthropological topic usually as it applies to a particular issue or skill. Topics vary but might include: Understanding that race is not a scientific concept; combating racism and ethnocentrism; participant observation methods; culture shock; cultural diversity and communication; forensics; cultural resource conservation.

Prerequisites: none

A comprehensive historical overview of the major theoretical schools of thought in anthropology. Special emphasis given to assumptions, methods of data collection and analysis, and major issues surrounding each theoretical perspective.

Prerequisites: none

An advanced seminar examining the ways anthropologists pratice anthropology. The course explores theoretical foundations and issues related to the professional practice of anthropology and focuses on developing necessary skills for sound professional practice.

Prerequisites: none

Practical field experience, usually under the supervision of some off-campus professional.

Prerequisites: none

* ANTH 601 must be taken twice (A and B) in different semesters, once in Fall and once in Spring for a total of 6 credits. 601A is only offered Fall semesters and 601B is only offered Spring semesters.
* ANTH 586 requires a minimum of 2 credits.
* ANTH 697 requires a minimum of 3 credits.

Research/Methods Course(s)

Advanced review of major qualitative and quantitative methods used in anthropological research. Course is also intended to aid students in the preparation of the thesis proposal.

Prerequisites: none

Unrestricted Electives

Choose 10 Credit(s).

* No more than 10 credits of individual study, fieldwork, internship, or laboratory counts toward electives.

Capstone Course

Choose 3 - 6 Credit(s).

Preparation of an alternate plan paper or applied project under supervision of the student's graduate advisor. Prerequisite: must be enrolled in the MS program in Anthropology.

Prerequisites: none

Preparation on the master's thesis.

Prerequisites: none

Degree Plan

The Degree Plan is a model for completing your degree in a timely manner. Your individual degree plan may change based on a number of variables including transfer courses and the semester/year you start your major. Carefully work with your academic advisors to devise your own unique plan.
* Please meet with your advisor on appropriate course selection to meet your educational and degree goals.

First Year

Fall - 9 Credits

A comprehensive historical overview of the major theoretical schools of thought in anthropology. Special emphasis given to assumptions, methods of data collection and analysis, and major issues surrounding each theoretical perspective.

Prerequisites: none

Spring - 6 Credits

A comprehensive historical overview of the major theoretical schools of thought in anthropology. Special emphasis given to assumptions, methods of data collection and analysis, and major issues surrounding each theoretical perspective.

Prerequisites: none

Second Year

Fall - 9 Credits

Advanced review of major qualitative and quantitative methods used in anthropological research. Course is also intended to aid students in the preparation of the thesis proposal.

Prerequisites: none

Spring - 6 Credits

An advanced seminar examining the ways anthropologists pratice anthropology. The course explores theoretical foundations and issues related to the professional practice of anthropology and focuses on developing necessary skills for sound professional practice.

Prerequisites: none

Practical field experience, usually under the supervision of some off-campus professional.

Prerequisites: none

Third Year

Fall - 3 Credits

Preparation on the master's thesis.

Prerequisites: none

Spring - 1 Credits

Preparation on the master's thesis.

Prerequisites: none

Policies

Admission

Prospective students should submit their application through the GradCAS system. The Department of Anthropology requires applicants to have a bachelor's degree from an accredited university and to submit three letters of recommendation; a personal statement that describes your previous training in anthroplogy, the direction and areas of interest you wish to pursue in graduate work, and your educational objectives; a writing sample of 10-15 pages (not including references); and a resume.

Additional requirements for international applicants include a minimum TOEFL iBT score of 61 or a minimum IRLTS score of 5.5, as well as a credential evaluation prepared by a National Association of Credentials Evaluation Service member.

Anthropology attracts people from a wide variety of backgrounds, so we welcome applicants from any field. Students who do not have the equivalent of at least an undergraduate minor in Anthropology may need to take some undergraduate core courses before taking the Master's seminars.