Anthropology - Applied Anthropology
Bachelor of Science – B.S.
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Undergraduate
About the Program
Build a deep understanding of human diversity and use it to make a real-world impact. The applied anthropology option blends theory with hands-on training in research and cultural analysis, preparing you to tackle social issues, analyze human behavior, translate insights into solutions and communicate effectively across diverse communities.
The Polytechnic Experience
Explore how culture shapes art, health, and society through anthropological research. Engage in community projects, nonprofit work, and policy development, gaining practical experience that makes a real-world impact.
Career Outcomes
Courses
Cal Poly Pomona's Applied Anthropology option in the Bachelor of Science in Anthropology offers a comprehensive study of humanity's cultural and biological heritage, from ancient origins to modern diversity. Students will begin with a core curriculum covering the four main subfields: Sociocultural Anthropology, Biological Anthropology, Archaeology, and Linguistics. The Applied Anthropology option then focuses on practical applications, preparing students to address contemporary social issues through anthropological methods. This program equips students with a broad understanding of human diversity while allowing them to tailor their education to specific career goals.
Associate Professor of Anthropology
Amy Dao
"I am a medical anthropologist whose research focuses on how concepts of care shape economic life. My most recent project examined how the implementation of universal health insurance coverage in Vietnam was mediated by kinship relations, risk perceptions, and temporal frames. I conducted research on the variety of actions people took to obtain health care as the country's health...
What is the Difference?
Applied Anthropology vs. General Anthropology
We offer both applied anthropology and general anthropology as separate degree focuses. The general option is a traditional “four-field” anthropology education that allows deeper study in sociocultural anthropology, biological anthropology, archaeology, and linguistics. It prepares you for post-graduate study or careers that benefit from a broad understanding of humanity, including social, governmental, or international service, primary or secondary education, or law. Applied anthropology supplies a base in the four subfields, then offers coursework to understand culture, technology, business and research methods from an anthropological perspective. It highlights the use of anthropology to solve real-world problems and is a fit for careers in health, community engagement, disaster response and more. Either option is an ideal launch platform for career opportunities across industries!
