Master's Degree in Anthropology

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Why Choose NDSU for Your Master's in Anthropology?

NDSU's Anthropology program offers a wide range of research opportunities, allowing you to explore your specific interests within the field.  Whether you're passionate about archaeology, cultural anthropology, biological anthropology, or linguistic anthropology, you'll find a supportive community and ample resources here. Our program boasts a dedicated and experienced faculty who are active in their respective areas of specialization. They're committed to helping you succeed in your academic journey and research endeavors. We encourage hands-on learning experiences. Whether it's archaeological digs, ethnographic fieldwork, or lab research, you'll have the chance to apply your knowledge in real-world settings.

 

What You Can Achieve

A Master's in Anthropology from NDSU can open doors to a wide range of career paths. You may choose to pursue a Ph.D. and become an academic or researcher, work in cultural resource management, international development, public policy, museums, or even go on to a career in healthcare, public health, or forensics.

How to Apply

For full consideration for admission, assistantships and tuition waivers, a complete application must be submitted to the Graduate School by February 1st. All applications are considered for a Fall semester start date.

Materials required for the online application to the master's program include:

  • Transcripts
  • A statement of purpose indicating your reasons for pursuing graduate study, specifying your specific research interests/area of focus for study, and your background preparation in that area. Mention any relevant skills or experience that you have acquired and which faculty you wish to work with
  • Three letters of recommendation are required from persons familiar with your academic achievement and future potential
  • International students must also submit one of the following test scores: Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), and the Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic)

If you have additional questions regarding the master's program, contact Dr. Kristen Fellows, Graduate Committee Coordinator 

 

Degree Requirements

The master's degree (M.A. or M.S.) in Anthropology credit requirements consists of a minimum 30 credits (for the thesis option) or 35 credits (for the paper option), of which 16 must be didactic credits (e.g., these would include NDSU courses numbered 601-689 or 700-789).

Core requirements include the following:

  • A theory-oriented Anthropology course (such as Anth 680)
  • A methods-oriented Anthropology course (such as Anth 650)
  • Additional coursework to finish the 30 credit requirement (24 credits for thesis, 26 for paper)
  • A research-based thesis or comprehensive study paper
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