BA in Anthropology in Fresno United States | California State University, Fresno

Anthropology examines all aspects of humanity across different cultures and historical periods. Unlike other social sciences that may focus narrowly on contemporary societies or specific institutions, anthropology takes a holistic approach, studying human societies as interconnected systems. It aims to comprehend the complete human experience by examining how various elements of society interact.

This wide-ranging perspective is evident in anthropology's four main branches. Biological anthropology investigates human biology, including evolution, genetics, and primate studies. Cultural anthropology analyzes diverse cultural practices to identify both universal patterns and unique traditions. Archaeology uncovers ancient human history through material remains, reaching far beyond written records. Linguistic anthropology studies language's structure and its crucial influence on human behavior. These subfields are unified by their shared focus on culture, which serves as the foundation of anthropological inquiry.

Our program pursues three key objectives:

to equip students with knowledge about human diversity throughout history and geography, preparing them for effective cross-cultural engagement,
to develop versatile critical thinking skills applicable to numerous professional paths, and
to train students in applying anthropological principles to both practical and academic pursuits.
The anthropology major and minor programs systematically introduce all four subfields. The major includes a core sequence that builds from fundamental concepts to advanced theories, incorporating hands-on fieldwork experience. Electives allow specialization in particular areas for graduate study or career preparation. The minor provides a concise yet comprehensive overview, ideal for students in any field requiring cultural awareness and interpersonal skills.