Overview

Earn your Anthropology degree your way. Cal State East Bay offers flexible learning options, allowing students to complete the BA in Anthropology fully online or through a combination of online, hybrid, and in-person courses.

Anthropology explores what it means to be human, examining societies, cultures, languages, and environments across time and around the world. At Cal State East Bay, students develop a deeper understanding of human diversity, cultural change, and the connections between people and their environments.

Our dynamic program introduces students to five areas of anthropology:

Biological Anthropology: Human evolution and biological diversity.
Archaeology and Museum Studies: Past societies, material culture, and cultural heritage.
Linguistic Anthropology: Language, communication, and cultural identity.
Sociocultural Anthropology: Human societies, beliefs, and social relationships.
Environmental Anthropology: Relationships between people and the natural world.

Students can explore multiple areas or develop an individualized course of study with guidance from faculty.

Hands-On Learning and Research

Our program combines classroom learning with practical experience. Students have opportunities to collaborate with faculty on research projects exploring Indigenous architecture, foodways, and ecological stewardship.

Students can also gain experience in museum collections, exhibition design, and public interpretation through the Clarence E. Smith Museum of Anthropology, the department's teaching and exhibition space.

These experiences help students develop valuable skills in research, cultural analysis, communication, and problem-solving.

Career Opportunities

An Anthropology degree prepares students for careers across the public, private, and nonprofit sectors. Graduates develop transferable skills that are valuable in fields such as:

Museums and Cultural Heritage: Archaeology, museum curation, cultural resource management, and historic preservation.
Education and Research: Teaching, academic research, and public education.
Government and Public Service: Public policy, urban planning, immigration services, and international development.
Health and Community Advocacy: Public health, housing advocacy, and community organizations.
Business and Technology: User experience (UX) research, market research, and organizational research.
Environmental and Social Justice: Environmental advocacy, sustainability, and community-based initiatives.

The BA also provides a strong foundation for graduate study in anthropology, the social sciences, humanities, health professions, and law.

Anthropology Program Advising

Our Anthropology program provides personalized faculty advising to help students plan their coursework, explore academic interests, and prepare for their careers. Prospective and current students are encouraged to contact Dr. Marks-Block to discuss their academic goals and degree options. Advising appointments are available in person, by Zoom, or by phone.

Dr. Tony Marks-Block
Associate Professor and Anthropology Program Advisor
Email: tony.marksblock@csueastbay.edu
Phone: (510) 885-3164
Office: Meiklejohn Hall 4036

How Can Your Advisor Help?

Whether you're a new student, transfer student, or current Anthropology major, faculty advising can help you:

Develop a personalized degree plan and stay on track for graduation.
Understand major requirements and select courses that match your interests.
Explore internships, research opportunities, and career pathways.
Prepare for graduate school or professional programs.
Connect with university academic and student support services.

Why are there several people listed as my advisor in Bay Advisor?

Many History majors have additional advisors for specific programs they may be participating in. All students also have designated General Education/Breadth advisors to guide students. The General Education/Breadth Advisor for History majors is Dr. Sharla Blank. Her email address is sharla.blank@csueastbay.edu.