Central Washington University

What you'll study

This programme combines core anthropological theory and methods with targeted training in organisational ethnography, applied research design and qualitative analysis. You will study how culture shapes workplaces, institutions and design processes, and learn to translate ethnographic insights into actionable recommendations for businesses, non‑profits and public agencies.

• Core theory: contemporary social and cultural theory, histories of the discipline, and critical approaches to organisations and power.
• Research methods: ethnographic field methods, participant observation, interviewing, visual methods and ethics in applied research.
• Analytic techniques: qualitative data analysis, grounded theory, coding, and mixed‑methods approaches where appropriate.
• Organisational specialism: organisational ethnography, workplace culture, change and implementation, cross‑cultural management, and design anthropology.
• Applied practice: practicum or internship with an external partner, practised client engagement, and preparation of professional reports and presentations.
• Capstone options: master’s thesis or applied project/portfolio that demonstrates original research and practical application in organisational contexts.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree in anthropology or a related social science or professional discipline. Relevant work and research experience in organisational settings is viewed favourably.

• Completed undergraduate degree with transcript; departments typically look for evidence of strong academic preparation in research methods and writing.
• Statement of purpose outlining research interests, relevant experience, and career goals focused on organisational or applied anthropology.
• Letters of recommendation (usually two or three) from academic or professional referees who can speak to research potential and suitability for graduate study.
• Examples of previous academic writing or a research portfolio may be requested to assess readiness for graduate‑level research.
• International applicants will need to meet the university’s English language proficiency requirements.
• GRE scores are not commonly required but check the department’s admissions page for any programme‑specific testing policies.

Career prospects

Graduates with training in organisational anthropology are employable across a wide range of sectors where deep qualitative insight into people and institutions is valued. Career pathways typically include:

• Organisational development and change management roles in private and public sectors.
• User experience (UX) and customer insights research in technology, product design and service industries.
• Management and strategy consulting, particularly firms that blend qualitative research with business analytics.
• Policy analysis and programme evaluation for government agencies and non‑profits.
• Market and consumer research roles in marketing agencies and in‑house research teams.
• Academic careers, including progression to PhD study in anthropology, sociology or related fields.

Why study at Central Washington University

Central Washington University offers a personalised graduate experience with small classes and close mentoring from faculty who have expertise in applied and cultural anthropology. The department emphasises hands‑on training in field methods and professional practice, with opportunities for practicum placements and collaborative projects with community and organisational partners in the Pacific Northwest.

Students benefit from a campus environment that supports interdisciplinary work, access to regional case studies—ranging from rural communities to regional business and public institutions—and resources for professional development. The programme is well suited to students looking for practical skills in ethnographic research combined with the academic grounding needed for further scholarship or applied careers.