Anthropology

  • BA
  • Major
  • Minor
Student paints a garden sign with the Munsee language word for "carrot."

The Anthropology program invites curious minds into an exploration of what makes us human – our origins, cultural practices, languages, belief systems, and social structures. Drawing from all four subfields (cultural, physical, archaeological, linguistic) plus applied anthropology, students develop a nuanced, interdisciplinary understanding of human behavior and global issues, preparing them to engage with a rapidly evolving world.

The curriculum offers several tracks, including community development, K-6 teacher certification, combined BA / MS Sustainability Sciences and minors in Anthropology, Archaeology and Urban Humanities.

Students get hands-on learning experience via fieldwork, lab excavation, applied research, internships and more. Graduates emerge from the Anthropology program equipped to drive change in many sectors including education, nonprofits, museums, public policy, cultural resource management, environmental planning and more.

Here, engaged, global-minded students will find a launchpad for careers that make a real-world impact and give deeper meaning to our shared human story.

Become a Teacher

Students can major in Anthropology with Elementary Education Certification and then be qualified to teach grades K-6 in New Jersey Public Schools. A minimum of 120 semester hours of coursework is required for the baccalaureate and will be combined with an additional 60-61 credits for the teacher certification.

Anthropology Major with Teacher Certification K-6

Get a unique edge as a K-6 teacher with an Anthropology degree and help to foster cultural awareness, empathy, and strong communication skills in your classroom. Anthropology encourages interdisciplinary thinking, blending social studies, history, science, and language—key areas in elementary education. With training in observation and human development across cultures, anthropology graduates are well-prepared to recognize student needs, encourage curiosity, and connect learning to real-world experiences. This holistic, human-centered perspective enhances both teaching and classroom dynamics.

See the curriculum.

Combined Programs

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Anthropology BA/Sustainability Science MS

The Combined BA Anthropology/MS Sustainability Sciences program allows high-achieving students to earn both degrees in just five years. Designed for Anthropology majors ready for advanced study, the program enables seniors to begin graduate coursework and explore topics for a master’s thesis or applied internship. Students gain valuable knowledge in sustainability, environmental studies, and management while expanding their professional skills. By completing select graduate “swing” courses at the undergraduate tuition rate, students benefit from a cost-effective pathway to an MS degree and enhanced career opportunities.

Related Programs

 

Student at Turtleback Zoo, observing a swimming otter

Class at Turtle Back Zoo

Students in the applied 400-level course Primate Behavior and Ecology learn about the behavior, biology, evolution, ecology, and conservation of our closest relatives, the non-human primates. This course is held both on campus and at the Turtle Back Zoo in West Orange.

 

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Department of Political Science, Law, History and Anthropology

The Department of Political Science, Law, History and Anthropology brings together disciplines dedicated to understanding people, power, culture and society across time and around the world.