BA in Anthropology
The BA in Anthropology at the University at Buffalo helps you understand how people live, change and find meaning in a complex, global world. You will study human behavior and culture across time and place while building skills that translate to many careers. At UB, a flagship public research university in an affordable, welcoming city, you will learn in small classes with dedicated faculty and gain hands-on experience that prepares you for what comes next.
The BA in Anthropology is a flexible choice for curious students who want to explore culture, health, language, communities or human evolution. With adaptable degree pathways, the program complements other majors and minors while building skills that support careers in health, education, public service, research and community work.
At UB you benefit from:
- Faculty who are active researchers and accessible mentors
- An affordable, welcoming campus in the City of Good Neighbors
- Opportunities to learn in labs, field sites and local communities
- A degree that supports double majors, joint majors and double degrees
You'll develop strong, transferable skills that open doors to many paths after graduation.
As an anthropology major, you will:
- Study all four subfields of anthropology
- Learn in small, faculty-taught classes
- Build a schedule that supports double majors or pre-professional goals
- Prepare for graduate school, medical or dental school, teaching or community-focused careers
Many students pair anthropology with majors in biological sciences, public health, psychology, linguistics, international studies or social studies education.
The BA in Anthropology builds a broad and practical understanding of the human experience. Graduates of the program will be able to:
- Demonstrate knowledge of core concepts, theories and methods in cultural anthropology, biological anthropology and anthropological archaeology
- Understand and interpret the diversity and complexity of human experience
- Develop global awareness and insight into cultures around the world
- Design and conduct research, including posing questions, gathering evidence, analyzing sources and building arguments
- Think critically and read analytically
- Communicate clearly in writing and speaking, supporting ideas with evidence
- Organize and present research in meaningful ways
These skills help students navigate complex environments and work effectively with people from many backgrounds.
Your coursework builds a foundation across the discipline while giving you room to follow your interests.
Foundational courses
You begin with introductions to cultural anthropology, archaeology and human evolution, then move into advanced work in anthropological theory and a senior seminar that brings your learning together.
Statistics and analysis
All students complete one statistics course to strengthen analytical and research skills. Options may include courses such as "Introduction to Statistics and Computing," "Psychological Statistics" or "Statistical Methods."
Electives and applied learning
You choose a range of anthropology electives that reflect your interests. Topics may include culture and health, museums, religion, environmental anthropology, primate behavior or archaeological field methods. Many students also pursue field schools, lab courses or independent research.
For complete requirements and policies, refer to the official course catalog.
Anthropology is built to fit your interests now, while giving you options for later. Whether you want to explore more than one field or prepare for graduate school, these paths help you shape a degree that works for you.
Double majors
Love two subjects? You can major in both (like Anthropology and Communication) and graduate with one degree. You'll complete all the requirements for each.
Joint majors
Want something more streamlined? A joint major lets you blend coursework from two programs without doubling up on everything. It's a smart choice.
Double degrees
If you're up for a challenge, you can pursue two separate types of degrees—like a BA in Anthropology and a BS in Chemistry—and graduate with both and on time!
Combined degrees
Earn a bachelor’s and master’s degree in less time. These programs let you dive deeper into your field and get a head start on grad school or your career.
The BA in Anthropology develops skills employers value across many sectors, including:
- Critical thinking and analysis
- Understanding of culture and human behavior
- Clear written and oral communication
- Ability to work effectively with people from different backgrounds
Graduates pursue careers in community organizations, public health, education, museums, nonprofits, government and business. Many also continue on to graduate or professional programs in anthropology, law, medicine, public health or education.
If you are curious about people, culture and communities, the BA in Anthropology at UB offers a flexible path to explore your interests and prepare for what comes next.
Connect with the Anthropology Undergraduate Office to talk about the BA in Anthropology, double majors, joint majors or double degrees. Advisers can help you plan a path that fits your goals.
