PhD in Anthropology
Photographer: Meredith Forrest Kulwicki
Conduct original research. Advance knowledge. Shape the field.
The PhD in Anthropology at the University at Buffalo prepares students for advanced research, teaching and applied careers in anthropology. Through close faculty mentorship, interdisciplinary training and sustained original research, you will develop the skills needed to make meaningful contributions to the discipline. Students pursue doctoral study in archaeology, biological anthropology cultural anthropology or medical anthropology while engaging with the full breadth of anthropological thought.
Anthropology at UB is built around rigorous research, collaboration and intellectual curiosity. Graduate students join an active scholarly community that values interdisciplinary thinking and hands on inquiry.
At UB, you will:
- Work closely with faculty mentors from the start of the program
- Design research that draws across subfields and related disciplines
- Participate in fieldwork, laboratory research and community-based projects
- Engage with a supportive and intellectually engaged graduate cohort
- Prepare for academic, research-driven and applied professional careers
The department’s field projects and specialized laboratories support research across regions, methods and theoretical approaches, helping students build strong and adaptable scholarly profiles.
The PhD in Anthropology combines advanced coursework, comprehensive training in theory and methods and sustained original research. Students develop a strong foundation across anthropology while building depth in a primary subfield.
Doctoral students work closely with advisors and committees to shape research agendas that reflect their intellectual interests and professional goals. The program culminates in the completion of an original dissertation that makes a significant contribution to anthropological knowledge.
The official graduate course catalog is the sole authoritative source for all degree requirements, policies and milestones.
PhD students pursue advanced study in one primary subfield while engaging with the broader discipline.
Areas of study include:
Research often draws on interdisciplinary perspectives and may involve fieldwork, laboratory analysis, archival research, ethnography or mixed methods approaches. Students are encouraged to integrate theory, method and practice in ways that support innovative and impactful scholarship.
Through advanced training and original research, PhD students develop the skills needed for scholarly leadership and professional success. Graduates of the program are prepared to:
- Apply anthropological theory and methods with depth and rigor
- Formulate research questions and hypotheses grounded in disciplinary knowledge
- Use qualitative and quantitative analytical methods appropriately
- Conduct fieldwork and or laboratory research at an advanced level
- Communicate research findings effectively through oral presentations
- Produce clear, persuasive and professional scholarly writing
These outcomes prepare students for academic careers as well as roles that require advanced research, analysis and communication skills.
Graduates of the PhD in Anthropology pursue careers in a wide range of settings. Alumni are prepared for:
- University teaching and research positions
- Museums and cultural heritage institutions
- Government and policy roles
- Public health and medical research settings
- Consulting, nonprofit and community-based organizations
- Research and analysis roles across sectors
The program emphasizes transferable skills that support long-term career flexibility, including research design, critical analysis, project management and professional communication.
If you are ready to deepen your understanding of anthropology and develop the research skills needed for advanced study or applied work, the MA in Anthropology at UB offers a flexible and supportive graduate experience.
See PhD Program Metrics
We are happy to help you explore whether this program is the right fit.
