College of Arts and Sciences
Anthropology
College of Arts and Sciences
Anthropology
Explore the Human Story at NMSU
At New Mexico State University, our anthropology program invites you to delve into the rich tapestry of human existence. Anthropology is a multidisciplinary field that bridges the social sciences, natural sciences, and humanities, offering a comprehensive understanding of humanity. Whether you're fascinated by ancient civilizations, diverse cultures, human biology, or language, our program provides the tools and knowledge to explore these areas in depth.
Join us at NMSU to uncover the complexities of human societies and prepare for a future where you can make a positive impact in a diverse and interconnected world.
Admission Deadlines
There are no fixed deadlines*
- Total classes: 40
- Total credit hours: 120
- Cost per credit hour: $223.58**
Delivery Format
In-person
Career Pathways
An anthropology degree from NMSU opens doors to a wide range of career opportunities that make a real impact. Our graduates are equipped with critical thinking, research, cross-cultural communication, and analytical skills—highly valued across sectors.
- Cultural Resource Management Specialist
- Forensic or Biological Anthropologist
- Archaeologist
- University Professor or Lecturer
- Museum Curator or Archivist
- Medical Anthropologist
- Diplomatic or Foreign Service Officer

Degree questions, answered
Have questions about the Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology? Fill out our inquiry form.
Explore Humanity Across Time and Culture: NMSU’s Comprehensive Anthropology BA Program
The undergraduate anthropology major takes a holistic and comparative approach to the study of humanity in all places and times. It is spans the natural and social sciences, and challenges students to develop advanced skills in communication, critical thinking, and qualitative and quantitative research methods.
Engage in hands-on experiences through our archaeological field school and contribute to meaningful research projects that address contemporary global issues such as climate change, health disparities, and cultural preservation.
The discipline of anthropology is often divided into different subfields:
- Archaeology
- Biological Anthropology
- Cultural Anthropology
- Linguistic Anthropology
- Medical Anthropology
Archaeological Field School
Every summer, NMSU archaeologists offer 6-week archaeological field school classes to provide students with critical job skills and a unique research experience.
Scholarships Available
Get up to 100% of tuition covered with the New Mexico Opportunity Scholarship.**
The undergraduate anthropology major takes a holistic and comparative approach to the study of humanity in all places and times. It is spans the natural and social sciences, and challenges students to develop advanced skills in communication, critical thinking, and qualitative and quantitative research methods.
Students must complete all university degree requirements, which include: General Education requirements, Viewing a Wider World requirements, and elective credits to total at least 120 credits with 48 credits in courses numbered 300 or above.
Upper-division core courses in archaeology, biological anthropology, cultural anthropology, anthropological theory, and a capstone class focused on professional development are required in addition to a one year proficiency in a foreign language or equivalent/placement.
Take classes like:
- ANTH 1115G - Introduction to Anthropology
- ANTH 1140G - Introduction to Cultural Anthropology
- ANTH 1160G - World Archaeology
- ANTH 301 - Cultural Anthropology
- ANTH 315 - Introduction to Archaeology
- ANTH 355 - Biological Anthropology
The bachelor's degree in anthropology with a concentration in culture and language supports anthropology majors who wish to develop a focus in cultural anthropology, linguistics, and foreign languages that develops the knowledge, skills, and abilities to navigate an increasingly globalized world. The concentration provides coursework that underpins successful international study abroad experiences, which enables students to gain cross-cultural experience needed for employment in transnational and international organizations and agencies. There's a second language requirement for this degree.
Students must complete all university degree requirements, which include: General Education requirements, Viewing a Wider World requirements, and elective credits to total at least 120 credits with 48 credits in courses numbered 300 or above.
Take classes like:
- ANTH 399 - Professionalism and Practice in Anthropology
- LING 2110G - Introduction to the Study of Language and Linguistics
- ANTH 305V - Contemporary Native Americans
- ANTH 330V - Magic Witchcraft and Religion
- ANTH 360V - Food and Culture Around the World
- ANTH 362V - Environmental Anthropology
Ready to take the next step?
Request Information
Scholarships and Financial Aid
At NMSU, we strive to offer competitively priced tuition to keep your tuition costs affordable. If you need financial aid, we’re ready to work with you to determine the best ways to finance your education.
Financial assistance includes loans, grants, and scholarship opportunities. To apply, use NMSU’s convenient Scholar Dollar$ one-stop scholarship application, which serves all students in the NMSU system.
NMSU students are also eligible for loans and grants. The first step in applying for financial aid is to complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Learn more about financial aid opportunities at NMSU.
Contact Financial Aid
Phone: 1-888-729-6678
Email: financialaid@nmsu.edu
Accreditation
New Mexico State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Specialized accreditation from other accrediting agencies is also granted for some programs. NMSU’s accreditation ensures that your education meets high-quality standards and that your credits are transferable.