PhD in Anthropology in Ithaca United States | Cornell University

Our graduate program in Anthropology focuses on sociocultural and archaeological anthropology, while biological anthropology is mainly offered at the undergraduate level. The department integrates humanistic and social science perspectives through cutting-edge ethnographic studies, viewing culture as an active, evolving phenomenon and anthropologists as advocates for cultural diversity. While we have particular expertise in Asian regions (East, South, and Southeast), our research also spans the Americas, Europe, and Africa. The Anthropology program maintains close connections with regional studies departments and collaborates with interdisciplinary programs like Asian American Studies, Latina/o Studies, Indigenous Studies, and Gender/Sexuality Studies. We primarily accept Ph.D. applicants due to limited funding and career opportunities for terminal M.A. degrees. Nearly all admitted Ph.D. students receive five years of financial support for on-campus study, with opportunities for additional research funding through Cornell or external grants (NSF, Fulbright, etc.). Typically, students earn their Ph.D. within seven years and secure faculty positions at leading institutions worldwide.