Anthropology is the study of humans in the broadest sense: biological, sociocultural, and historical. Most undergraduates in anthropology at UCSB select this major because of the opportunity it affords them to acquire a sound liberal education, even if they do not intend to become anthropologists. However, the professionally oriented student will also find the curriculum fully suitable. The aim of the anthropology major is threefold: (1) to prepare for graduate school those students who wish to work professionally in anthropology; (2) to prepare students for careers in secondary education or in social work; and (3) to provide a background in behavioral studies for students who desire a broad education in either the biological or the social sciences. Students interested in cultural anthropology focus on ethnology and archaeology. Students interested in the study of human evolution and biological adaptation to the environment take biological anthropology. Students may declare the major after completing two anthropology courses. An overall 2.0 grade-point average is required. All major courses must be completed on a letter-graded basis. The Department of Anthropology’s staff undergraduate advisor assists students regarding major requirements as well as other curriculum matters. A faculty advisor is also available for academic and career counseling. Students interested in pursuing advanced degrees in anthropology should consult with the departmental graduate program assistant. A full discussion of the graduate program appears in the graduate program description, below. Students pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Anthropology who are also considering a California Teaching Credential should contact the credential advisor in the Gevirtz Graduate School of Education as soon as possible.

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