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Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology

Department of Language & Cultural Studies, Anthropology & Sociology

College of Letters, Arts & Social Studies

Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology

Department of Language & Cultural Studies, Anthropology & Sociology

College of Letters, Arts & Social Studies

On-Campus

Program

120 Credit Hours

to Graduate

Full-Time, In-State Tutition

$5,010 Per Semester

Free Books

for All Students

Investigate Human Diversity in the Past and Present

Anthropology is the holistic study of human life, past and present. The anthropology program at EKU offers a student-centered, high-quality, undergraduate degree with exposure to archaeology, biological anthropology, linguistic anthropology, and cultural anthropology. Anthropology is also an applied science, meaning that anthropologists seek to apply their knowledge in order to solve human problems. Our students participate in applied research or independent research, archaeology and primate field schools, and study abroad opportunities in Spain, Denmark, Peru, and Madagascar. Gain hands-on experience and apply what you learn in the classroom to the world around you.

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Career Outlook


Corporations will continue to use anthropological research to gain a better understanding of consumer demand within specific cultures or social groups. Anthropologists also will be needed to analyze markets, allowing businesses to serve their clients better or to target new customers or demographic groups.

Archeologists will be needed to ensure that builders, museums, and other organizations comply with federal regulations pertaining to the preservation and handling of archeological and historical artifacts.

Employment of anthropologists and archeologists is projected to grow 8 percent from 2023 to 2033.

– U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

What students do with their education is as varied as students themselves. We make sure our students are prepared to compete with anyone, no matter their interests and career paths.

Job Titles Include:

  • Archaeology Field Technician
  • Cultural Resource Manager
  • Museum Technician
  • Community Organizer
  • Zoo Technician

EKU anthropology graduates work in a variety of fields.

Employers Include:

  • National Park Service
  • Cultural Resource Management
  • Zoos
  • Social Work Service Providers
  • Community Organizations and Non-Profits

The Office of Academic and Career Services is a one-stop shop for all your career and professional development needs.

Services Include:

  • Creating/updating your resume and cover letter
  • Interviewing tips and coaching
  • Career documents review
  • Job search

Why EKU?

  • Free textbooks through EKU BookSmart
  • No application fee
  • Reduced tuition for active-duty military members and their spouses
  • Extensive hands-on learning opportunities:
  • Archaeology Field School – Investigate archaeological sites within the Daniel Boone National Forest through our partnership with the U.S. Forest Service.
  • Primate Field School – Observe primates at the Lemur Conservation Foundation (LCS) in Myakka City, Florida.
  • Education Abroad – Take advantage of this high-impact practice, which gives you the chance to explore distant places and push beyond your comfort zone. Recent trips include Peru, Barcelona, and Scandinavia.
  • Participate in service learning, applied research, or other independent research opportunities with faculty members.
  • Join the Society of Student Anthropologists to build new friendships and develop leadership and outreach skills.

Minors & Certificates

Select from a wide range of minors, allowing you to explore interests or make use of prior credits. Suggested minors available for this program include:

  • Anthropology
  • Archaeology
  • Sociology
  • Spanish

View the full list of minors available.

You can also choose from numerous undergraduate certificates in specialty areas that complement and enhance your major as you work toward your degree. Suggested certificates for this program include:

  • African & African American Studies

View the full list of certificates available for completion as you earn your degree.

Curriculum & Enrollment


EKU strives to provide a meaningful and engaging curriculum that prepares our students for academic and professional success.

A minimum of 120 credits are required to graduate.

View the degree requirements:

Please review the admissions requirements before applying for this or any program. If you have questions about the program or are planning to register for classes, please speak to the program advisor.

Students may transfer up to 90 hours of credit from accredited institutions. Please note that a minimum of 30 credit hours in this degree program must be completed at Eastern Kentucky University.

Previously earned credits must be reviewed upon admission to EKU for appropriate articulation.

All applicants must provide an application and evidence of appropriate scholastic achievement through prior educational experience.

Please note that certain degree programs have special admission requirements. Admission to the University does not mean automatic admission to all degree programs.

The completed application and all required supporting documentation must be received by the University no later than:

• August 1 for fall enrollment
• December 1 for spring enrollment
• May 1 for summer enrollment

To apply for undergraduate admission to Eastern Kentucky University (EKU), submit an application at apply.eku.edu and submit any required materials electronically or by mail to:

Office of Admissions
Eastern Kentucky University
Whitlock Bldg. 112, CPO 54
521 Lancaster Avenue
Richmond, KY 40475-3154.

Enrolling & Advising Information


EKU’s College of Letters, Arts, and Social Sciences is committed to delivering high-quality enrollment and academic advising for our students. We strive to create an atmosphere of mutual trust and meaningful engagement to help students reach their academic goals and have a rewarding educational experience.

Interested in enrolling? Reach out to our college enrollment counselor today.

Photo of Kelsi Butcher

Kelsi Butcher 

College Enrollment Counselor

859-622-2705
kelsi.butcher@eku.edu


Student Stories & Features

Thomas Preston George

EKU Anthropology & Spanish Student
I love the different events that are held by the colleges. I also really enjoy the opportunities faculty give the students to involve them in the university. EKU faculty are instrumental in my status as a student right now. I would not be here without them. They make sure that I am doing okay and give me advice and council for what I need to do to succeed.

Jasper Reynolds

EKU Anthropology Student
The Primate Field School at the Lemur Conservation Foundation provided us with experience in applying analysis and observation skills, including the gathering of quantitative and qualitative data. The Field School provides a setting that allows for high levels of camaraderie and bonding between students. It allowed us to cooperate to produce innovative data that initiates exciting conversations within the world of primatology.

Upcoming Events


News & Updates

Provost’s Faculty Internship Program Welcomes New Cohort

The Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) Provost’s Faculty Internship Program develops leadership skills and complements leadership endeavors among faculty by supporting individual development while assisting university-wide academic initiatives. Established by EKU […]

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Contact Information

Department of Language & Cultural Studies, Anthropology & Sociology

521 Lancaster Avenue
Commonwealth Hall Room 1909
Richmond, KY 40475

859-622-2996
carissa.brown@eku.edu