University of Memphis

What you'll study

The programme builds from foundational courses in the four fields of anthropology—cultural, archaeological, linguistic and biological—towards specialised coursework in organisational and applied anthropology. You will study core topics such as cultural theory, ethnographic methods, qualitative research techniques, research design and ethics. Organisational Anthropology modules focus on topics like workplace culture and identity, organisational change, leadership and power, cross‑cultural management, and the anthropology of work.

Typical modules and learning activities include:

• Introductory courses in cultural anthropology and anthropological theory to ground later study.
• Ethnographic methods, qualitative interviewing, participant observation, and analytic approaches for studying groups and institutions.
• Organisational Anthropology or applied anthropology courses that explore the culture of organisations, institutional ethnography, change processes and practice‑based interventions.
• Research methods and statistics for social sciences, emphasising mixed methods and data interpretation relevant to organisations.
• Electives that allow cross‑disciplinary study in management, communication, psychology, information studies or public policy.
• Capstone or senior seminar where students complete an independent research project, practicum or internship with a local business, NGO or public agency.

The degree typically follows a four‑year structure that blends general education requirements with major courses, skill‑building labs and opportunities for fieldwork or internships in organisational settings.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised secondary school qualification and meet the University of Memphis general admissions standards. Emphasis is placed on a strong record in social studies and demonstrated writing ability. Standardised tests (such as the SAT or ACT) may be considered according to the university's current admissions policy; applicants should check whether submission is optional or recommended.

Transfer students are assessed on college transcripts and completed credit; those transferring in with an interest in organisational anthropology should aim to bring in coursework in social sciences, research methods or communications where possible. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through an accepted qualification or test if their prior education was not conducted in English.

Career prospects

Graduates with a background in organisational anthropology are well placed for careers that require cultural insight, qualitative research skills and the ability to interpret human behaviour within institutional contexts. Typical career paths include:

• Organisational development and change consultancy
• Human resources, talent management and diversity, equity & inclusion roles
• User experience (UX) research and design, customer insight and market research
• Public sector and non‑governmental roles focused on programme design and community engagement
• Management and business strategy roles that value ethnographic and qualitative perspectives
• Research and academic progression to graduate study in anthropology, organisational studies, or related social sciences

Career development is supported by internships, practicum placements and the University of Memphis’ local business and public‑sector links that help students gain applied experience.

Why study at University of Memphis

The University of Memphis offers a department-level environment where anthropology is taught alongside related social science disciplines, enabling interdisciplinary study relevant to organisational contexts. Students benefit from faculty with applied research interests, opportunities for community and workplace fieldwork in the Memphis metropolitan area, and access to resources for research training and internships. The programme’s emphasis on ethnographic methods and practical placements prepares students to translate anthropological insight into actionable strategies for organisations, public agencies and design teams.