Program Overview

Anthropology Program Overview

The Master of Arts in Anthropology program is designed to provide students with a broad knowledge in advanced anthropology and the opportunity to conduct creative and independent research. The program covers a diverse range of specializations within the four traditional fields of anthropology.

Program Details

• Degree Type: Master of Arts
• Location: Bellingham, face to face
• Total Credits: 45

Curriculum and Research Areas

The program allows students to study under faculty with specialties and interests in the following areas:

• Medical Anthropology
• Biological Anthropology
• Engaged and Collaborative Anthropology
• Cultural Anthropology
• Archaeology
• Linguistic Archaeology

Program Goals

• Provide structured training in the academic core, appropriate specialization courses, and experience conducting advanced independent research
• Prepare students for a variety of professional careers utilizing anthropology (e.g., social services, international corporations, cultural resource management, technology, forensics, public health)
• Prepare students for Ph.D. programs or other advanced degrees

Application Requirements

• All applicants must complete the Graduate School's application and pay the application fee.
• Upload an unofficial transcript from each institution attended. If admitted, provide official transcripts.
• Additional application materials include:
  • Three (3) Letters of Reference
  • Selection of at least one potential advisor from the departmental faculty
  • Statement of Purpose: An essay informing the application reviewers of who you are and what you want to research, including your experiences, motivation, and research interest.

Statement of Purpose Guidelines

The statement of purpose should address at least the following:

• What is your specific research focus, research question, or research interest?
• Why are you pursuing an M.A. in Anthropology, and why do you think the program at Western Washington University suits you in particular?
• Which Anthropology faculty could advise your research, and why?
• What are your plans after completing the M.A.? The statement should be no longer than 1000 words (approximately four double-spaced pages).

Application Deadline

February 1

Program Structure

The program typically takes two years to complete, divided by a summer of research. A major professor and two other faculty members serve to direct and advise each graduate student in research and writing a thesis. Faculty in related departments may serve on thesis committees, enabling graduate students to pursue interdisciplinary research.