Welcome to the Department of Anthropology
The Anthropology program at SF State prepares students for success in graduate programs as well as for leadership positions in the nonprofit sector, the private sector and government. Our graduates have gone on to become teachers, researchers, film producers, policy advocates, attorneys, museum professionals and university professors. Courses at the B.A. and M.A. level provide opportunities to engage real-world problems and develop real-world skills.
Our degrees will be temporarily suspended as of Spring 2027 and no new students will be admitted until revisions are complete. Our faculty and staff are here supporting admitted students with degree completion and career planning. Please welcome our new Academic Office Coordinator, Diana Rumjahn, and our new Department Chair, Dr. Dawn-Elissa Fischer.
Why Study Anthropology at San Francisco State University?
Anthropology includes studies in the sciences, social sciences, humanities and creative arts.
Our students take courses on diverse societies and social justice, human biology, primate behavior, historic and prehistoric art and artifacts, and anthropological filmmaking. View our Program Overview for more information.
Our faculty maintain active research programs and creative work projects while being committed to student success through their instruction, advising, and professional development mentoring. Meet our faculty and Find advising.
Our students regularly participate in undergraduate research projects within and outside the department. We have annual awards to support student extracurricular experiences in research projects and field schools.
We also have a great Anthropology Student Association, a student-run social and networking organization with an eclectic range of interests and activities.