Anthropology, BA
Anthropologists study cultures — both tribal and urban, current and past — looking specifically at how a culture’s use of art, language and traditions as well as its behavioral and biological features make them human.
Program Intro
CBU’s program focuses on how anthropology can be applied in the real world to solve actual, human problems. Our faculty are skilled, experienced anthropologists who will ready students for careers and graduate degrees, and we also offer internships to provide the experience needed to work in the field.
*16-17 courses, depending on chosen concentration
Why Study Anthropology at CBU?
Gain a holistic view of human behavior
Students learn traditional anthropology application and research methods in a distinctly Christian program, considering the human as physical, psychological and spiritual. We do not compromise the discipline but include a distinct faith element which helps us more clearly understand human behavior from a creation perspective.
Be mentored by experienced anthropologists
Our faculty are skilled, experienced anthropologists who are dedicated to students’ academic and professional success. They spend time with students one-on-one and partner with them for activities and learning through the Anthropology Club. We absolutely love our students. We are able to invest in them individually because we are a small major and our classes are mostly discussion based.
Work in the field
We have just begun a unique partnership with the Riverside Metropolitan Museum where our students will work with them exclusively to redesign their museum in the coming years while learning about museum studies and artifact preservation. We often go to anthropology-discipline specific conventions all over the U.S. and sometimes in Canada.
What You'll Learn
Students graduating with a bachelor’s degree in anthropology will demonstrate the following:
- To articulate the theories, concepts and terms of the four fields in anthropology: cultural, biological, archeology, linguistics
- To apply anthropology concepts to explain cultural and societal experiences and recognize the limitations of personal experience in understanding cultural phenomenon
- To use qualitative analyses including ethnography to understand social institutions, rituals, and cultural contexts of behavior
- Conduct and write a review that summarizes part of the anthropology literature, applying fundamental strategies such as a thesis focus, an informative middle and an effective conclusion resulting from effective drafting, revising, and editing
- Understand and demonstrate academic integrity, including honor code requirements within university, community and professional settings
- Apply ethical standards of the profession of anthropology to research and practice
- Understand the Christian worldview and apply Biblical values and moral/ethical principles to research and practice
- Demonstrate sensitivity to issues of social diversity and exhibit respect for socially diverse groups
- Work collaboratively and respectfully with individuals with diverse backgrounds
Program Details
ANT 430: Culture and Personality
This course focuses on the interaction between personal patterns of behavior and social influences, paying particular attention to media influence and a history of social and psychological perspectives.
ANT 460: Religion and Culture
This course examines an anthropological approach to religion and magic, and its relationship to symbolism, myths, sacred spaces, and rituals.
ANT 450: Family and Gender Studies
Focusing on a diversity of family systems, both modern and historic, students will explore the tangible roles family and gender play in everyday life throughout the world.
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Cultural Anthropology Concentration
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Psychological Anthropology Concentration
- Forensic Psychology Concentration (Optional)
- Industrial and Organizational Psychology Concentration (Optional)
- Life Span Development Concentration (Optional)
- Medical Anthropology Concentration (Optional)
- Sports Psychology Concentration (Optional)
Julie Goodman-Bowling, Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Anthropology
Chair, Division of Family & Culture in the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences; Program Coordinator, Anthropology
Office Phone: 951-343-4468
E-mail: jgoodman@calbaptist.edu
Office Location: James 139
H. Bruce Stokes, PhD
Professor of Behavioral Science
Major Representative, Behavioral Sciences and Christian Behavioral Sciences
Office Phone: 951-343-4269
E-mail: hbstokes@calbaptist.edu
Office Location: W.E. James Building, Room 133
I am a middle school Spanish teacher and every day I interact with students, parents, and teachers from a variety of cultural backgrounds, and I truly believe I have more empathy and understanding with them because of my years studying anthropology at CBU.
Becca Shoup '17
Middle School Spanish Teacher
I feel that my whole life has changed and I have grown in every aspect. I was able to land the job I have now thanks to my behavioral science background so I am glad that I am able to put my BA to good use.
Keren Sandoval '17
Child Counselor, All God's Children Group Home
Career Possibilities
Employment of anthropologists and archaeologists is projected to grow 4 percent from 2022 to 2032, about as fast as the average for all occupations, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Anthropology majors can also apply their field of study to a variety of other careers. Some careers listed below may require further education.
- Relief and Development Worker
- Ethnologist
- Travel Writer
- International Business Consultant
- International Business Liaison
- Market Researcher
- Cross-Cultural Facilitator
- Anthropologist
- Teacher
- Urban Planner
- Tourism or Heritage Worker
- Medical Field Worker
Related Programs
Next Steps
Join our community. At CBU, you’ll be challenged to become an individual whose skills, integrity, and sense of purpose glorify God and distinguish you in the world.