Program: Foundations of Anthropological Knowledge Certificate

The Foundations of Anthropological Knowledge Certificate program is designed for individuals who lack sufficient foundational knowledge in anthropological method and theory. This program provides excellent preparation for entry into the master's degree program in Anthropology.

Program Description

The program offers coursework in general anthropological method and theory, as well as topical work in three of the core subfields of anthropology: archaeology, biological anthropology, and sociocultural anthropology. Up to nine units of credit earned in this certificate program can be used to satisfy the degree requirements of the CSUN Master of Arts in Anthropology or the CSUN Master of Arts in Public Archaeology.

Program Requirements

A. Requirements for Admission to the Certificate Program

• B.A. in any field from an accredited college or university.
• Students with a cumulative undergraduate GPA lower than 3.0 must score at or above the 50th percentile on two of the three portions of the aptitude test of the Graduate Record Exam.
• Department application cover sheet.
• A one-page written statement by applicant indicating research and career objectives.
• Resume or curriculum vitae.
• One letter of recommendation from an individual who can evaluate the applicant's potential for success in postbaccalaureate studies.

B. Course Requirements

Minimum of 15 units of approved coursework in Anthropology. Specific required coursework consists of:

1. Core Course (3 units)

ANTH 500 Foundations of Anthropological Theory and Method (3)

2. Methods (3-4 units)

• ANTH 445/L Human Osteology and Lab (3/1)
• ANTH 473 Theory and Method in Archaeology (3)
• ANTH 474 Quantitative Methods in Anthropology (3)
• ANTH 475 Ethnographic Research Methods (3)
• ANTH 518/L Lab Methods in Archaeology and Lab (2/1)
• ANTH 519 Seminar in Archaeological Theory and Method (3)
• ANTH 574 Advanced Quantitative Methods in Anthropology (3)
• ANTH 575 Advanced Ethnographic Research Methods (3)

3. Archaeology Breadth (3 units)

• ANTH 427 Archaeology of North America (3)
• ANTH 428 Archaeology of Mesoamerica (3)
• ANTH 429 Archaeology of South America (3)
• ANTH 449 Historical Archaeology (3)
• ANTH 527 Advanced North American Archaeology (3)
• ANTH 549 Advanced Historical Archaeology (3)

4. Biological Anthropology Breadth (3 units)

• ANTH 421 Primatology: Morphology, Behavior and Social Organization (3)
• ANTH 423 Human Behavior: Evolutionary Perspectives (3)
• ANTH 453 Human Paleontology (3)

5. Sociocultural Anthropology Breadth (3 units)

• ANTH 424 The Supernatural in the Modern World (3)
• ANTH 425 Culture, Health and Healing (3)
• ANTH 430 Environmental Anthropology (3)
• ANTH 451 Economic Anthropology (3)

Total Units for the Certificate: 15-16

Program Learning Outcomes

Students receiving a Foundations of Anthropological Knowledge Certificate will be able to:

1. Analyze human experiences and the causes and consequences of cultural diversity across space and time from an anthropological perspective.
2. Analyze the evolutionary process particularly as it relates to primate and specifically hominin evolution.
3. Analyze biological and behavioral variation among human and nonhuman primates in context.
4. Discuss and analyze the foundational concept of culture and core theories in anthropology and their applications to the field.
5. Independently conceptualize, collect, describe, analyze, interpret and communicate anthropological evidence according to generally accepted professional practice and ethics.
6. Examine how anthropology can be used to engage in contemporary issues and can be applied toward addressing social problems.

California State University Northridge

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Overview:

California State University Northridge (CSUN) is a public university located in Northridge, California. It is part of the 23-campus California State University system. CSUN offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines.

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Services Offered:

CSUN provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:

Academic Advising & Tutoring:

Support services to help students navigate their academic journey.

Student Services & Support:

Resources for student well-being, including counseling, health services, and disability support.

Athletics:

Opportunities to participate in intercollegiate sports.

Housing & Dining:

On-campus housing options and dining services.

Health & Wellness:

Programs and resources to promote student health and well-being.

Safety & Security:

Campus security measures to ensure student safety.

University Student Union:

A central hub for student activities, events, and organizations.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

CSUN offers a vibrant and diverse campus experience with numerous opportunities for student engagement. Students can:

Join Clubs & Activities:

Participate in a wide range of student organizations and clubs.

Engage in Community-Engaged Learning:

Gain practical experience through community service and outreach programs.

Study Abroad:

Expand their horizons by studying at international partner institutions.

Attend Events and Activities:

Enjoy a variety of cultural, social, and academic events on campus.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Diverse and Inclusive Community:

CSUN fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment for students from all backgrounds.

Strong Academic Programs:

Offers a wide range of high-quality academic programs across various disciplines.

Affordable Education:

Provides a relatively affordable education compared to other universities.

Location:

Located in the San Fernando Valley, offering easy access to Los Angeles and its surrounding areas.

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Academic Programs:

CSUN offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various colleges, including:

College of Arts, Media and Communication

College of Business and Economics

College of Education

College of Engineering and Computer Science

College of Health and Human Services

College of Humanities

College of Science and Mathematics

College of Social and Behavioral Sciences

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Other: