Undergraduate Programs

Anthropology - General Anthropology

Bachelor of Science – B.S. |
Undergraduate

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About the Program

Gain a deeper understanding of humanity, culture and change over time. The general anthropology degree offers a broad, four-field approach to the discipline, providing a strong foundation for graduate study or careers in education, law, social services, government or international work.

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General Anthropology

The Polytechnic Experience

Conduct archaeological excavations. Study how sociocultural factors impact our experiences with health, illness and healing. Learn skeletal biology and anatomy, then examine a human skeleton. Assess the various mediums humans use to document culture. Here, you receive a wide and enriching study of the human experience that prepares you to take on careers in countless fields.

About PolyX

Career Outcomes

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Community Development Specialist

Work to improve social, economic and cultural conditions in neighborhoods and towns. ÐÇ¿Õ´«Ã½ anthropological insights to identify community needs and implement projects like housing, education or public health initiatives.

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Public Health Analyst

Understand how social, economic and cultural factors affect health behaviors and outcomes. Design, evaluate and implement health programs that are culturally sensitive and accessible. Work with communities to improve health education, create change and support policies that promote wellness.

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Communications Specialist

Use knowledge of cultural and social nuances to craft effective communications strategies for organizations, especially those with diverse or global audiences. Work in corporate, nonprofit, or governmental sectors, designing messaging that is sensitive to cultural differences.

Community Development Specialist

Work to improve social, economic and cultural conditions in neighborhoods and towns. ÐÇ¿Õ´«Ã½ anthropological insights to identify community needs and implement projects like housing, education or public health initiatives.

Public Health Analyst

Understand how social, economic and cultural factors affect health behaviors and outcomes. Design, evaluate and implement health programs that are culturally sensitive and accessible. Work with communities to improve health education, create change and support policies that promote wellness.

Communications Specialist

Use knowledge of cultural and social nuances to craft effective communications strategies for organizations, especially those with diverse or global audiences. Work in corporate, nonprofit, or governmental sectors, designing messaging that is sensitive to cultural differences.

Courses

Cal Poly ÐÇ¿Õ´«Ã½'s General Anthropology option in the Bachelor of Science in Anthropology offers a comprehensive education across all major subfields: Sociocultural Anthropology, Biological Anthropology, Archaeology, and Linguistics. Building on a common core, this option includes advanced coursework in each subfield, providing students with a broad, "four-field" anthropology degree. It is ideal for those planning to pursue graduate studies in anthropology or related fields, as well as careers in social services, government, international organizations, education, or law. This option equips students with a well-rounded understanding of human cultures and biology, preparing them for diverse professional and academic paths.

For the most up-to-date information on courses for this program, visit the course catalog or contact an advisor.

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Financial Aid & Scholarships

CLASS Scholarships

Through the support of loyal alumni and donors, the College of Letters, Arts, and Social Sciences (CLASS) is proud to offer several scholarships based on academic interest. While these scholarships vary in the award range, CLASS is committed to every student having the opportunity to pursue an exceptional and affordable education at Cal Poly ÐÇ¿Õ´«Ã½.

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Dr. James J. A. Blair

Featured Faculty

Dr. James J. A. Blair's research employs ethnographic and historical methods to advance the fields of political ecology, science, technology and society, and settler colonial studies. His work centers on energy, water and environmental justice.
James J. A. Blair Associate Professor of Anthropology
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