Stanford University

Overview

The Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology: Culture and Society at Stanford University offers a comprehensive exploration of how cultural norms, social structures, and power dynamics shape human experiences across various contexts and historical periods. This program emphasizes the study of human diversity through both cultural and biological lenses, equipping students with the research skills necessary to analyze issues of inequality, identity, and social transformation.

What you'll study

Core focus: The curriculum integrates foundational courses in cultural and social anthropology with practical training in research methodologies. Students have the opportunity to deepen their knowledge through electives that address contemporary challenges related to health, language, technology, and urban life.

Example courses include:

• Theory of Culture and Social Anthropology
• Methods and Evidence in Anthropology
• Hip Hop, Youth Identities, and the Politics of Language
• Cultural Studies
• Urban Culture in Global Perspective
• South Asia: History, People, Politics

Learning organization:

• Foundations: Introductory courses that establish core anthropological concepts.
• Methods: Classes focused on the techniques anthropologists use to gather, interpret, and assess data.
• Applied electives: Options that explore specific geographical regions, societal issues, or interdisciplinary themes.

Capstone/thesis: Confirm whether this major includes a senior thesis or capstone project as a culminating academic experience.

Entry requirements

Stanford University employs a holistic admissions process, meaning that there is no singular GPA or standardized test score that guarantees acceptance. Specific academic requirements may vary, so prospective students should consult Stanford's current admissions guidelines.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Anthropology: Culture and Society program are well-prepared for a variety of career paths. They may pursue roles in education, social services, public policy, international development, or cultural resource management. Additionally, the analytical and research skills acquired through this program can lead to opportunities in research, advocacy, and community organizing.