Master of Arts in Anthropology

The Anthropology master's program emphasizes broad training in four fields of anthropology (archaeology, biological anthropology and human evolution, cultural anthropology and applied anthropology), while offering students some flexibility in degree planning and requirements. The master's in Anthropology is particularly well-suited for students who want to enter a Ph.D. program in anthropology but may not have the preparation necessary to enroll in such a program directly, teach in the community colleges, or establish a career in a field that utilizes anthropological methods, theory and/or data. All students in the program are required to take seminars in sociocultural anthropology, archaeology, physical anthropology and anthropological theory. In addition, students take elective courses to fit with their area of specialization. They complete their degrees either by passing a series of comprehensive exams or by writing a thesis. Those who want to teach anthropology at the community college level are encouraged, but not required, to choose the comprehensive exam alternative. Students who plan to enter a Ph.D. program in Anthropology are strongly encouraged to write the thesis. Students who plan other anthropology-related careers (e.g., museum work, public folklore, etc.) will decide between the examination and thesis alternatives in consultation with the graduate advisor.

Have a four-year baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution
Be in good academic standing at the last college or university attended
Have satisfied one of the following conditions:
Have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 in all undergraduate units
Have a minimum GPA of 2.5 in the last 60 semester/90 quarter units from all post-secondary institutions
Hold an acceptable post-baccalaureate degree earned at a regionally accredited institution and:
Have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 in all units attempted as an undergraduate, or
Have a minimum GPA of 2.5 in the last 60 semester/90 quarter units attempted from all post-secondary institutions attended.
All OFFICIAL transcripts for any college or university courses you have completed in original language of issue. Your records must include official verification of degree completion.
Official English translations of all academic records.

Completion of minimum University requirement for admission to graduate standing.
Either (a) B.A. in Anthropology with coursework that includes introductory courses in archaeology, biological anthropology and sociocultural anthropology, anthropological theory (equivalent to ANTH 303), and anthropological methods (equivalent to ANTH 473 or ANTH 475). Students with a cumulative 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. Or (b) Completion of the CSUN Certificate in Foundations of Anthropological Knowledge or the Certificate in Foundations of Archaeological Knowledge with a GPA of 3.3 or higher.
Two-page written statement by applicant indicating research and career objectives.
Resume or curriculum vitae.
Two letters of recommendation from individuals who can evaluate the applicant's potential for success in graduate studies.
Demonstration of research and writing skills. Applicants must submit to the graduate committee a sample research paper, written in English, and preferably one that was completed as part of the baccalaureate degree requirements, such as a senior thesis or other research paper done in an upper division undergraduate or graduate course. Because of the importance of research and writing to the graduate program, the committee needs to be assured of applicants abilities and promise in these areas.
Exceptional cases that may not meet all the given requirements for admission will be considered by the graduate committee on petition by the applicant. Specific reasons for the waiver of any of the requirements must be offered in the applicant's personal statement.

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