Catalog Year

2023-2024

Degree

Master of Science

Credits

30

Locations

Mankato

Anthropology (MS)

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.

 

GRADUATE ADMISSIONS

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 graduate programs.

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In GradCAS, you will need to provide the following:

  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited.
  • A personal statement that describes your previous training in anthropology, 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).
  • Three letters of recommendation.
  • International students must provide proof of English proficiency.

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

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).

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

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

Elective Course in Major * 3 credits

Elective Course in Major * 3 credits

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

Elective Course in Major * 3 credits

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

Elective Course in Major * 3 credits

Elective Course in Major * 3 credits

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