In this program, you’ll uncover what it means to be human by studying both history and biology. You’ll also gain expertise in data analysis and research design, focusing on human evolution, archaeology and the broader field of anthropology. By mastering the scientific method, you’ll learn to formulate and test hypotheses, gather data through observation and excavation, and analyze it using statistics.
Beyond building technical skills, this degree encourages you to ask profound questions about humanity. You’ll explore what defines us — our cultures, beliefs, social behaviors, evolution and biology — and connect with the lives of people from both the recent and distant past. Through this journey, you’ll seek to understand how human behavior has evolved and continues to change, gaining a deep insight into what it truly means to be human.
The skills you’ll develop as an anthropology major
As an anthropology major, you’ll develop a unique set of skills that are valued across fields. You’ll learn to “think like an anthropologist,” honing your ability to manage, evaluate and interpret large amounts of data with an analytical mindset. You’ll also gain a broad, holistic perspective that allows you to appreciate our place in nature and understand the history of human societal change. This deep understanding of human behavior, combined with the ability to grasp nuance and ask important questions, will prepare you for success in science, medicine, business and more. Additionally, ASU offers a variety of hands-on research opportunities to undergraduate anthropology students.
The differences between a BA and BS in anthropology
When choosing between a BS and a BA in anthropology, it’s important to consider your interests and career goals. If you’re drawn to the scientific and mathematical aspects of the field, including evolutionary anthropology, bioarcheology or specialized areas of archaeology, the BS degree will be a good fit. On the other hand, if you're more interested in exploring human behavior through archaeology or sociocultural anthropology, or if you prefer a general overview of the field without focusing on a specialty, the BA degree will be ideal for you.
Both the BA and BS programs can be completed as part of an Accelerated Master’s program. When accepted, you can earn a master’s degree in as little as one year after completing your undergraduate degree. This opportunity saves you time and money while giving you advanced knowledge in your field. Applicable master’s degrees include:
Arizona State University’s online Bachelor of Science in anthropology explores the essence of humanity by combining studies in history, biology and intensive scientific coursework. You’ll develop skills in data analysis, research design and statistical methods, preparing you for a wide range of careers in health research, foreign service, business, education and more. As you dive into human origins, cultures and behaviors, you’ll gain a broad, comprehensive perspective that is increasingly valued in today’s globalized world.
In this program, you’ll engage in science- and mathematics-based courses that deepen your understanding of humanity. You’ll take calculus and upper-division statistics, equipping you with the quantitative skills needed to analyze complex data. Alongside these, your broad anthropological coursework will teach you how to ask critical questions about the human species, exploring our evolution, cultures and behaviors through a scientific lens.
The School of Human Evolution and Social Change faculty includes four members of the National Academy of Sciences, nine Fellows of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences and nine Regents, Foundation or President’s Professors. Noteworthy faculty include:
- Anne Stone — Geneticist who helped unlock Neanderthal DNA
- Donald Johanson and William Kimbel — Discovered the Lucy fossil
- Jane Buikstra — Invented the field of bioarchaeology
- Kaye Reed — Discovered the oldest fossil of the genus Homo
ASU's School of Human Evolution and Social Change is one of the largest and most diverse anthropology programs in the country. Scale is a major asset as students can take classes and work with faculty in any part of the school. We offer an array of popular courses, taught by the same leading faculty who teach in person. As leaders in online instruction, we continually work to improve the quality of the student experience.
in anthropology research expenditures
nationally for publications in top-tier anthropology journals
internationally for publications in top-tier anthropology journals
countries across six continents where our unit has a research presence
objects in our research collections
No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.”