Susquehanna University

What you'll study

The programme blends core anthropological training—cultural theory, ethnography and qualitative methods—with specialised courses that apply those approaches to organisations, institutions and workplaces. Students take a sequence of foundational courses in cultural anthropology, anthropological theory and research methods before moving into applied and topical modules.

• Core subjects: Introduction to Cultural Anthropology, Anthropological Theory, Qualitative Research Methods, Ethnographic Fieldwork.
• Organisational and applied modules: Organisational Anthropology, Workplace Ethnography, Corporate Culture and Change, Applied Anthropology in Business and Non‑profits, Leadership and Institutional Practice.
• Research and practical experience: Research Design, Senior Capstone or Thesis, Internship/Practicum with local businesses, NGOs or public agencies to apply ethnographic methods in real organisational settings.
• Related electives: Economic Anthropology, Visual Anthropology, Globalisation and Work, Digital Culture and User Experience, Quantitative Methods for Social Scientists.

The degree is structured within Susquehanna’s liberal arts curriculum: students combine their major sequence with General Education requirements and may pursue interdisciplinary study with departments such as Business, Psychology and Communication. Small seminar classes, close faculty mentorship and opportunities for field placements and study abroad are central to the learning experience.

Entry requirements

Admission is at the undergraduate level. Typical applicants will present a secondary school diploma or equivalent with a competitive academic record. Susquehanna reviews applications holistically; schools normally expect a mix of college‑preparatory subjects. Prospective students should submit transcripts, a personal statement and school recommendations.

Standardised tests may be optional depending on the applicant’s profile; international applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests or approved alternatives. Successful applicants often show evidence of curiosity about people and organisations, relevant extracurricular engagement or work experience, and an interest in qualitative research.

Career prospects

Graduates with training in organisational anthropology have adaptable skills valued across sectors: qualitative research, cultural analysis, interviewing and participant observation, report writing and presentation. Common career paths include:

• Human Resources and Organisational Development
• Diversity, Equity and Inclusion specialist roles
• Corporate or independent culture and change consultants
• User experience (UX) and customer research in private sector firms
• Market and social research for consultancies and think tanks
• Programme and operations roles in non‑profits and NGOs
• Public sector and policy analysis
• Further academic study: master's or doctoral programmes in anthropology, sociology, organisational studies or related fields

Internships and the senior capstone support transition to employment or graduate study by providing applied experience and a portfolio of research projects.

Why study at Susquehanna University

Susquehanna is a small, residential liberal arts university that emphasises close student–faculty relationships and experiential learning. Anthropology students benefit from small seminar classes, personalised advising and faculty who supervise independent research and capstones.

The university encourages interdisciplinary collaboration, allowing students to combine organisational anthropology with courses in business, psychology, communication and information design. Susquehanna also supports hands‑on learning through community partnerships, internships and study abroad options that expand opportunities for workplace ethnography in local and international settings.

Career services and alumni networks assist with internship placements and job searches, while the campus culture prioritises mentorship and opportunities to practice applied research before graduation.