Northern Arizona University

What you'll study

The degree is built on core anthropological perspectives—cultural anthropology, archaeology, biological/physical anthropology and linguistic anthropology—while specialising in the study of organisations, institutions and workplace cultures. Typical modules and topics include:

• Introduction to Cultural Anthropology – foundations in culture, identity and social organisation.
• Ethnographic Methods – participant observation, qualitative interviewing, fieldnotes and ethical practice.
• Organisational Anthropology – theories of organisations, culture in the workplace, institutional ethnography and power relations.
• Qualitative and Mixed Methods – coding qualitative data, designing mixed-method projects and integrating statistical description.
• Applied Anthropology and Practicum – applied projects with community partners or organisations, including client-facing research and recommendations.
• Research Design and Capstone – independent or group research project that applies ethnographic methods to an organisational question.
• Electives and Interdisciplinary Options – courses in business, communication, human resources, information systems, psychology or public policy to complement organisational focus.

The programme typically combines classroom seminars, hands-on fieldwork, internships and a capstone research project. Students learn how to produce and present ethnographic reports, translate qualitative findings into actionable recommendations, and work ethically with organisational stakeholders.

Entry requirements

Applicants to Northern Arizona University for an undergraduate anthropology programme are expected to hold a high-school diploma or equivalent and to have completed college-preparatory coursework (for example, English and mathematics). NAU considers applications holistically; successful applicants typically demonstrate a solid academic record, relevant extracurricular interests and clear interest in social sciences or applied research.

• High-school academic transcript showing completed core subjects.
• Personal statement or essay outlining interest in anthropology and organisational topics; prior experience in volunteering, work or research is helpful.
• Transfer applicants should provide college transcripts and descriptions of completed coursework; credit may be awarded for relevant college-level classes.
• International applicants must provide evidence of secondary-school completion and meet English-language proficiency requirements.

Because institutional admissions policies can change, prospective students should consult Northern Arizona University’s official admissions pages or speak with an admissions adviser for the most current application steps and documentation requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates with training in organisational anthropology move into roles where understanding culture, behaviour and organisational systems is valuable. Typical career paths include:

• User experience and design research – using ethnographic methods to inform product and service design.
• Organisational development and human resources – culture change, diversity and inclusion initiatives, and employee experience roles.
• Consulting and management – advising organisations on strategy, change management and stakeholder engagement.
• Public sector and non-profits – programme evaluation, community engagement and policy research.
• Market and social research – qualitative research roles in private-sector research firms.
• Further study and academia – postgraduate research (MA, MSc or PhD) in anthropology, organisational studies, sociology or related disciplines.

The programme’s emphasis on applied methods and internships helps graduates demonstrate practical experience sought by employers in business, technology, government and non-profit sectors.

Why study at Northern Arizona University

Northern Arizona University offers undergraduate anthropology teaching with opportunities for close faculty mentorship and practical field experience. Students benefit from small-class discussion formats for seminars and methods courses, access to faculty with applied and community-oriented research interests, and the chance to build interdisciplinary skills through electives in business, communication and public policy.

Being based in Flagstaff and the broader Arizona region provides a diverse social and cultural landscape for ethnographic work and internships with local organisations, government agencies and community groups. NAU’s support services for undergraduates—academic advising, career services and internship placement—help students translate anthropological training into workplace skills and career pathways.