Program: Foundations of Anthropological Knowledge Certificate
Program Description
For those who lack sufficient foundational knowledge in anthropological method and theory, the CSUN Foundations of Anthropological Knowledge curriculum provides excellent preparation for entry into the master’s degree program in Anthropology. Students will complete coursework in general anthropological method and theory, as well as topical work selected in consultation with the graduate advisor. A minimum of 6 units earned in this certificate program can be used to satisfy the degree requirements of the CSUN Master of Arts in Anthropology (additional units from the certificate, up to the entire 15 units, may apply to the degree depending on the topical courses selected).
Program Requirements
A. Requirements for Admission to the Certificate Program
- B.A. in any field from an accredited college or university.
- Cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher.
- Department application cover sheet.
- A one-page written statement by applicant indicating research and career objectives.
- Resume or curriculum vitae.
- One letter of recommendation from an individual who can evaluate the applicant’s potential for success in postbaccalaureate studies.
Students with a cumulative GPA lower than 3.0 may be admitted into the program under one of the following conditions: (a) A score at or above the 50th percentile on two of the three portions of the aptitude test of the Graduate Record Exam; or (b) Exceptional cases that may not meet all the given requirements for admission will be considered by the graduate committee on petition by the applicant. Specific reasons for must be offered in the applicant’s personal statement. It is highly recommended that applicants speak with the graduate advisor prior to application to receive guidance on documentation to submit to optimize making their case.
B. Course Requirements
Minimum of 15 units of approved coursework in Anthropology. Specific required coursework consists of:
1. Core Course (3 units)
ANTH 500 Foundations of Anthropological Theory and Method (3)
2. Methods (3-4 units)
Choose one of the following in consultation with the graduate advisor:
ANTH 445/L Human Osteology and Lab (3/1)
ANTH 473 Theory and Method in Archaeology (3)
ANTH 474 Quantitative Methods in Anthropology (3)
ANTH 475 Ethnographic Research Methods (3)
ANTH 476A-Z Topics in Anthropological Methods (3)
ANTH 518/L Lab Methods in Archaeology and Lab (2/1)
ANTH 519 Seminar in Archaeological Theory and Method (3)
ANTH 574 Advanced Quantitative Methods in Anthropology (3)
ANTH 575 Advanced Ethnographic Research Methods (3)
3. Topical Electives (9 units)
Three elective courses chosen in consultation with the graduate advisor.
Total Units for the Certificate: 15-16
Contact
Department of Anthropology
Chair: Kimberly Kirner
Sierra Hall (SH) 232
(818) 677-3331
Program Learning Outcomes
Students receiving a Foundations of Anthropological Knowledge Certificate will be able to:
- Analyze human experiences and the causes and consequences of cultural diversity across space and time from an anthropological perspective.
- Analyze the evolutionary process particularly as it relates to primate and specifically hominin evolution.
- Analyze biological and behavioral variation among human and nonhuman primates in context.
- Discuss and analyze the foundational concept of culture and core theories in anthropology and their applications to the field.
- Independently conceptualize, collect, describe, analyze, interpret and communicate anthropological evidence according to generally accepted professional practice and ethics.
- Examine how anthropology can be used to engage in contemporary issues and can be applied toward addressing social problems.