COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master’s in Anthropology program at the University at Albany offers a comprehensive and research-focused curriculum centered on the four major subdisciplines of anthropology. Students explore archaeology, where they study ancient cultures through material remains such as tools and artifacts; biological anthropology, which examines human evolution, health, and behavior; linguistics, focusing on the relationship between language and culture; and cultural anthropology, which investigates modern social issues through ethnographic research methods like interviews and observation. This broad approach ensures students gain a well-rounded understanding of human diversity across time and space.The program provides two academic pathways: a general sequence and a cognate field sequence, each requiring a minimum of 30 credits. In the general sequence, students complete at least 24 credits in anthropology, including proseminars in physical anthropology, archaeology, linguistics, and ethnology, along with additional coursework in selected subdisciplines. Students may demonstrate proficiency through departmental examinations, which can allow for flexibility in course requirements while still meeting credit minimums. Supporting courses of up to six credits in related disciplines may also be included to broaden academic knowledge.The cognate field sequence offers a more specialized approach, requiring at least 18 credits in anthropology across two subdisciplines, along with a minimum of eight credits in a defined cognate field such as historical archaeology, ethnomedicine, or primitive art. This field must be formally approved by the department.A key component of both pathways is the research requirement, where students must complete a research seminar and produce either a research project paper or a master’s thesis. Overall, the program combines interdisciplinary coursework with intensive research training, preparing students for professional careers or advanced academic study in anthropology and related fields.