Program Overview

The general objective of this graduate program is the preparation of students who are able to work as proficient, well-rounded professionals upon award of their degrees. Thus, graduate students in Anthropology are required to master specific subject matter in the discipline and to demonstrate originality and independent creativity in appropriate areas of research. Anthropology graduate students are encouraged to develop breadth, as well as specialized depth, in the field. They are also expected to gain experience in teaching and in other professional activities, including presenting and publishing their research.

Students beginning graduate work in anthropology are expected to be conversant with the field as evidenced by successful completion of introductory course work in at least three of the four subfields of anthropology, plus at least two advanced undergraduate courses in different subfields. Students admitted without this minimum of preparation will be expected to remove any deficiencies before being granted full graduate standing.

The Department of Anthropology distributes its own guide to graduate admissions. To obtain a copy write to the Director of Graduate Admissions at the Department of Anthropology. Inquiries about our graduate program may also be directed by email to sbellor@anthro.umass.edu. Further information may be found on the department’s website: https://www.umass.edu/anthropology/.