Bachelor of Arts - Anthropology - Indigenous Anthropology

Anthropology is the study of humans, past and present, and what they think and do. Anthropology embraces a holistic perspective—the big picture—when examining human phenomena, seeking to understand human ideas and behavior as they are influenced by biological, ecological, economic, social, political, cultural, and religious factors and realities.

The Bachelor of Arts - Anthropology major at California State University San Marcos is an applied, collaborative, and interdisciplinary course of study that engages students directly with the interests and efforts of local communities. The Anthropology major takes into primary consideration the special role of Cal State San Marcos in the north San Diego county region and the opportunities for community-based research and fieldwork.

The California State University San Marcos anthropology students gain hands-on field research experience through participation in long-term and ongoing anthropological and archeological research among some of San Diego County’s diverse communities. The Anthropology major’s enhanced learning experiences gained through field research are based on collaborative partnerships with community organizations and agencies. The program distinguishes itself through long-term collaborative research projects that enhance their learning experiences, promote the interests of local communities, and practice complementary exchange between the University and the community. Through an engaged and innovative curriculum that responds to state and regional needs, the anthropology program trains them in qualitative and quantitative research methods that include ethnography, participant observation, ethnographic film, social documentation, ethnomedicine, ethnobotany, survey, and applied archaeology.

Students who graduate with a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology will be able to: