Bachelor of Arts
in Anthropology

Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology

Program Overview

Discover the Depth of Human history as an anthropology major

Embark on your intellectual adventure with an anthropology degree from Youngstown State University. Our globally focused Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology program immerses you in the study of human biological, cultural, and archaeological history. 

Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology

Our bachelor’s in anthropology courses provide a comprehensive exploration of this exciting and impactful field. The curriculum covers both theoretical and applied aspects of anthropology, equipping you with a critical understanding of human cultural and biological variations and how they came to be. 

As an Anthropology major, you’ll engage in hands-on fieldwork, from local archaeological digs to study abroad programs in places like Guatemala and Belize. You’ll explore advanced technology, such as ground-penetrating radar and 3D printing, and study fascinating artifacts from our extensive collections. 

Additionally, you can enhance your anthropology degree by choosing from several minors, allowing you to specialize in areas that align with your unique interests and career goals. 

Add a specialized minor to your BA in anthropology

Expand your expertise by adding a minor in a specialized area to your anthropology degree. Choose from minors in:

  • Biological Anthropology
  • Cultural Anthropology
  • General Anthropology
  • Archaeology
  • Forensic Anthropology

 

Each minor provides specialized knowledge and skills, enhancing your understanding of distinct anthropological fields. These focused areas of study complement your BA in Anthropology and prepare you for a wide range of professional opportunities, making your education at YSU even more versatile and impactful.  

Speak to a Faculty Member

Loren Lease, Ph.D

Professor, Chair

lrlease@ysu.edu

 

Matt O’Mansky, PH.d

Associate Professor

Meomansky@ysu.edu

"What does it mean to be human? In the Anthropology department at YSU, you'll explore this question every day and the answers might just surprise you! I have read about remote societies, examined human bones, and event ascended ancient temples - all in the pursuit of an answer. Whether you're interested in the emergence of Homo sapiens of what causes civilizations to rise and fall, YSU has a class for that."
Marble statue of the ancient Greek Philosopher Plato.
Ravyin Gorrell
Alumni, 2025

Why The BA In Anthropology From YSU?

Our bachelor’s degree in anthropology offers a comprehensive and engaging program designed to ignite your curiosity about human history and culture. As a Youngstown Anthropology major, you’ll benefit from: 
  • Renowned faculty: Learn from passionate experts who provide a dynamic learning environment through engaging lectures, stimulating discussions, and hands-on experiences. 
  • Diverse academics: Our anthropology courses cover global cultural connections, biological aspects of humanity, and archaeological studies, equipping you with versatile skills for careers in anthropology and related fields. 
  • Immersive learning: Participate in faculty-led expeditions to places like Guatemala and Belize, engage in our Bahamas Field School for excavation and lab analysis, or assist in forensic anthropology with local law enforcement. 
  • Dedicated support: YSU’s Office of Career Exploration and Development offers comprehensive support for career planning and job search strategies. Our advisors also help with international field schools and competitive graduate school placements. 
  • Prime location: Youngstown provides access to museums, historical societies, and volunteer opportunities within the Mahoning Valley. Nearby attractions include the Cleveland Natural History Museum (home to the Hammann-Todd Skeletal Collection), Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, and Pittsburgh Zoo (ideal for primate data collection).

What can you do with a bachelor's in Anthropology?

The job outlook for our BA in Anthropology graduates is strong, with growing demand in public health, international business, and cultural resource management. Our anthropology courses prepare you for diverse careers in these sectors, as well as for advanced study at the graduate level. 

Our anthropology degree graduates leverage their knowledge and skills in critical thinking, research, and cultural understanding for wide-ranging roles—from positions with the National Park Service to assisting law enforcement as death investigators. 

Archaeology is another common career path for our Anthropology majors, with alumni working as archaeologists in both field and laboratory settings. Others have become zookeepers or primate specialists, applying their understanding of biological anthropology to animal care and conservation. 

In the corporate and nonprofit sectors, our Anthropology graduates excel in communications and public relations, project management, and consulting. They also work as advocates and environmental specialists, demonstrating the versatility of YSU’s bachelor’s degree in anthropology.  

BA in Anthropology: What You'll Study

Start Your Journey of Human Discovery at YSU

Our bachelor’s in anthropology program features a comprehensive curriculum that provides a broad understanding of human cultures, biological variation, and archaeological practices. You will participate in hands-on laboratory work, analyze human skeletal remains, explore ancient civilizations, and learn to use cutting-edge technology in archaeological research. Our anthropology courses blend theoretical knowledge with practical skills, preparing you for careers in anthropology and related fields or graduate-level study. 

Discover the fascinating world of human history and culture with YSU’s Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology. Gain the expertise to thrive in exciting careers in anthropology and beyond. Join us today and start your path to a rewarding future in this impactful field. 

Scholarships for Anthropology Majors

Each year, thousands of dollars in scholarships are awarded to students enrolled in the Beeghly College of Liberal Arts, Social Sciences and Education (BCLASSE). Scholarships come from a variety of sources, vary in amount, and are available to both incoming and current BLCASSE students.