How to Apply
Before You Apply
Admissions Requirements
- Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution
- Minimum 3.0 GPA on bachelor's and any post-baccalaureate coursework
- Good standing at the last institution attended
- English proficiency (if applicable): TOEFL 80 iBT / 550 PBT, IELTS 6.5+, Duolingo 105+, or PTE 58+
Application Steps & Deadlines
| Step | What's Required | Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Cal State Apply | Common application + nonrefundable fee | February 1 |
| 2. Official Transcripts | Sent to Graduate Admissions Office | February 15 |
| 3. Department Application (Slate) |
Statement of purpose, transcripts, 3 letters of recommendation, writing sample, CV (see below for specifics) |
February 15 |
The program application via Slate will require the following items:
- Statement of Purpose (500–750 words). In this statement, clearly articulate your research interests and professional goals and explain how they have developed through your academic and professional experiences. Identify at least one specific area of inquiry you hope to pursue during your MA program, and explain why this program is well-suited to support that work. Additionally, identify at least one faculty member in the department who you envision as your faculty mentor. Explain how that faculty member’s research aligns with your interests and briefly explain how their work connects to your own academic goals; this might include specific projects, publications, or methodological approaches that resonate with you. You are encouraged to contact potential faculty mentors in advance of applying to discuss your research interests and potential fit with their areas of expertise. Your statement should demonstrate not only what you want to study, but why this department, and this potential mentor, are the right fit for your intellectual development.
- Copies of transcripts from all colleges and universities attended. These do not need to be sent directly from the college or university – photocopies and digital copies are acceptable. Note: This is in addition to the transcripts that you submit to Graduate Admissions (Step 3).
- Copies of TOEFL or IELTS (only for international applicants) test scores. Photocopies and digital copies are acceptable. Note: This is in addition to the scores that you submit to Graduate Admissions (Step 4).
- Three letters of recommendation – Applicant must provide names and email addresses for recommenders. Recommenders will be invited to complete the recommendation electronically.
- A writing sample that demonstrates your writing skills.
- A current CV.
See the Slate Quick Start Guide and the SDSU Graduate Admissions website for full instructions.
Once You're Admitted
Program Requirements
Minimum 30 graduate units with a 3.0 GPA: two core courses (ANTH 700, 710); one methods course; five 500/600/700-level electives (at least 3 units at 600/700-level, max 9 units outside Anthropology); ANTH 797; ANTH 799A (Thesis); and the foreign language/statistics/GIS/programming requirement.
Financial Support
- Internal scholarships: Norton Allen Scholarship, Pitt Warner Endowed Anthropology Scholarship, Sonek Memorial Fund
- Out-of-state tuition waivers (case-by-case, limited availability)
- Graduate Assistant / Instructional Student Assistant (GA/ISA) positions, advertised each semester
- General financial aid via the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships.
Questions? Contact Graduate Advisor Dr. Nicole Mathwich (AL-486) at [email protected].