Graduate Student FAQs

Our program is founded on a four-field (archaeological, biological, cultural, and linguistic anthropology) approach to the study of humanity. We offer rigorous theoretical and methodological foundations in anthropology. Because of our department’s small size our graduate students are able to enjoy close mentorship and advisement with faculty. Our students are able to conduct original thesis research in archaeological, biological and cultural anthropology as well as develop interests within our applied anthropology discipline.

Atlanta is the major southeastern hub in the United States. As a major metropolitan area, graduates are able to find access to post-Masters gainful employment in applied anthropology. While still in the MA program, the city provides for our students a multicultural context conducive to anthropological research as well as urban opportunities for professional internships at the Carter Center, the Center for Disease Control, CARE, the Atlanta Zoo, museums, human service organizations, and community development with immigrant and refugee populations. Because of the great network of higher education institutions, our students are given access to academic programs at Emory University, GA Tech, and the Atlanta University Center.

Diverse! Georgia State has a very large and very diverse student body. The anthropology department is no different. Our graduate students come to Atlanta from all over the country. The students we are looking to add to our department, the ones who seem to thrive in this environment exhibit the following characteristics: they are well-grounded in the Liberal Arts, seek to understand the human condition, are academically prepared, creative, and diligent, are interested in lab, field, or scholarly research, and seek a career in academic or applied anthropology.

The M.A. program is designed to be completed in two years for full-time students. During the first year, all students are required to demonstrate competence in the basic theories and methods of anthropology through completion of a four-course core curriculum. This includes training in the use of qualitative and quantitative methods to develop critical perspectives on sociocultural issues. Additional course work is completed in consultation with the faculty. During their second year, students are expected to develop their own areas of interest and expertise within the broader framework of the program. Students are encouraged to take advantage of resources in other departments and schools at Georgia State University, and of neighboring institutions such as Emory University, Georgia Institute of Technology, the Atlanta University Center, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Medical College of Georgia.

Yes! Our department offers Graduate Assistantships (GAs) to a number of graduate students each year. The GA includes a $2,000 stipend per semester, as well as a tuition waiver. Students holding GAs also have a 10% discount at the University Bookstore. The GA does not cover the mandatory student activity fees and health insurance costs.

Apply online through the College of Arts and Sciences website. Paper applications are no longer accepted.

March 1 – for fall semester for funding priority
April 1 – for fall semester
November 1 – for spring semester
We do not admit graduate students beginning in the summer term.

For general inquiries email us at [email protected] or call our main line: 404-413-5156