Anthropology graduates earn a median $25,194 Across 465 US programmes, two years after finishing
See the degree grade →The Bachelor’s in Sociology and Anthropology at CUNY combines sociological theory and methods with cultural and biological approaches from anthropology to analyse human societies, cultures and institutions. It suits students who want practical research skills, fieldwork experience and preparation for careers or further study in public policy, social research, community work or applied anthropology.
This interdisciplinary degree introduces core concepts from sociology and anthropology and trains you in qualitative and quantitative research methods. Typical first-year modules cover foundational topics such as introduction to sociological theory, cultural anthropology, social statistics and methods of social research. In subsequent years you will study subjects such as urban sociology, race and ethnicity, gender and sexuality, political anthropology, economic anthropology, medical anthropology, and visual or digital ethnography.
Practical components are emphasised: coursework usually includes ethnographic fieldwork, participant observation, interviewing, survey design and statistical analysis using common software packages. Many programmes require a senior seminar or capstone project in which students design and complete an independent research project. Electives allow you to focus on areas such as migration and diaspora, criminal justice, public health, museums and heritage, or language and culture. Opportunities for internships with community organisations, government agencies, NGOs and cultural institutions in New York City are commonly integrated into the curriculum.
Applicants are normally expected to hold a secondary school qualification comparable to a US high school diploma. Typical admissions criteria include a satisfactory high school transcript and evidence of preparedness for university-level work; specific grade or GPA expectations vary by CUNY college. Standardised test requirements (SAT/ACT) may be optional or considered depending on the college; consult the specific CUNY campus for current policies.
Transfer students should have completed college-level coursework with a minimum cumulative GPA determined by the receiving college; articulation agreements within the CUNY system can facilitate transfer of credits. Applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate English proficiency (for example, through recognised tests such as TOEFL or IELTS) unless exempt by prior study in English. Some colleges may request a personal statement, letters of recommendation or an interview as part of the selection process.
Graduates with a degree in Sociology and Anthropology are equipped for a wide range of roles in the public, private and non-profit sectors. Common career paths include social researcher, policy analyst, community outreach coordinator, case worker, market researcher, human resources specialist, and roles in public health, education, cultural heritage and museum work. The degree also provides excellent preparation for graduate study in sociology, anthropology, public policy, social work, law or public health.
In an urban context such as New York City, graduates often find employment with municipal agencies, advocacy organisations, research institutes, community-based organisations, and cultural institutions. Employers value the programme’s emphasis on research skills, cross-cultural understanding, data analysis and ethical fieldwork experience.
CUNY offers access to one of the world’s most culturally diverse urban laboratories for studying society and culture. The university’s multiple campuses across New York City provide unique opportunities for local fieldwork, internships and partnerships with city agencies, non-profits and museums. Students benefit from faculty who conduct active research on contemporary urban issues and from relatively small seminar sizes in upper-level courses.
As a public university system, CUNY emphasises affordability and pathways to professional advancement, including transfer-friendly policies and links to graduate programmes. The breadth of disciplines across CUNY enables interdisciplinary study—students can combine sociology and anthropology with related subjects such as history, public health, urban studies, or media studies. Extensive library holdings, research centres and community-engaged learning initiatives support student research and professional development throughout the degree.
Shortlist scholarships and plan your application — free guidance from our advisors.