Graduate Program
Join our department’s vibrant anthropological research community by applying to our Master of Arts Program. Our MA in Anthropology offers a flexible and dynamic program designed to accommodate the needs of recent graduates as well as working professionals. Half of the required courses are either asynchronous or scheduled later in the day, allowing students to balance their academic pursuits with professional and personal commitments. Our program fosters an inclusive learning experience that supports diverse career goals and schedules. Join us in San Diego, where world-class research meets the beauty and diversity of one of the most inspiring places on Earth.
As part of their training, graduate students in our program can choose from 35 courses (500-level and above) tailored to the research specialties of our faculty. Students also have the chance to participate in faculty-led fieldwork and gain hands-on experience in one of our department’s eight laboratories, the SDSU Archeological Collections Facility, or the South Coastal Information Center. As part of the application process, prospective students are encouraged to identify and contact our faculty members whose research aligns with their career goals and interests.
Our M.A. program prepares students for:
- Teaching positions in Anthropology
- Doctoral training in Anthropology and allied fields (e.g., Geography, Public Health,
Primate Conservation Biology, etc.)
- Professional careers in public and private sectors and non-profit organizations (e.g.,
cultural resource management, urban planning, program evaluation, administration,
healthcare, marketing, and sustainable resource management and economic development
How to Apply
- Step 1: Submit the Cal State Apply application ( opens October 1, deadline February 1 ).
- Step 2: Send official transcripts to Graduate Admissions (deadline February 15).
- Step 3: Complete the Anthropology M.A. Program application in Slate - statement of purpose, transcripts, three letters of recommendation, writing sample, and CV (deadline February 15).
Ready to see the fine print?
Admissions requirements, deadlines, and the application steps live in Program Resources
- along with program requirements, funding, and forms for after you're admitted.
Questions? Contact Graduate Advisor Dr. Nicole Mathwich (AL-486) at [email protected].