Online Bachelor of Science in Anthropology
Arizona State University’s online Bachelor of Science in anthropology explores the essence of humanity by combining studies in history, biology and intensive scientific coursework. You’ll develop skills in data analysis, research design and statistical methods, preparing you for a wide range of careers in health research, foreign service, business, education and more. As you dive into human origins, cultures and behaviors, you’ll gain a broad, comprehensive perspective that is increasingly valued in today’s globalized world.
Quick facts
Next start date: 07/02/2025
Total classes: 40
Weeks per class: 7.5
Total credit hours: 120
Learn what it means to be human
In this program, you’ll uncover what it means to be human by studying both history and biology. You’ll also gain expertise in data analysis and research design, focusing on human evolution, archaeology and the broader field of anthropology. By mastering the scientific method, you’ll learn to formulate and test hypotheses, gather data through observation and excavation, and analyze it using statistics.
Beyond building technical skills, this degree encourages you to ask profound questions about humanity. You’ll explore what defines us — our cultures, beliefs, social behaviors, evolution and biology — and connect with the lives of people from both the recent and distant past. Through this journey, you’ll seek to understand how human behavior has evolved and continues to change, gaining a deep insight into what it truly means to be human.
The skills you’ll develop as an anthropology major
As an anthropology major, you’ll develop a unique set of skills that are valued across fields. You’ll learn to “think like an anthropologist,” honing your ability to manage, evaluate and interpret large amounts of data with an analytical mindset. You’ll also gain a broad, holistic perspective that allows you to appreciate our place in nature and understand the history of human societal change. This deep understanding of human behavior, combined with the ability to grasp nuance and ask important questions, will prepare you for success in science, medicine, business and more. Additionally, ASU offers a variety of hands-on research opportunities to undergraduate anthropology students.
The differences between a BA and BS in anthropology
When choosing between a BS and a BA in anthropology, it’s important to consider your interests and career goals. If you’re drawn to the scientific and mathematical aspects of the field, including evolutionary anthropology, bioarcheology or specialized areas of archaeology, the BS degree will be a good fit. On the other hand, if you're more interested in exploring human behavior through archaeology or sociocultural anthropology, or if you prefer a general overview of the field without focusing on a specialty, the BA degree will be ideal for you.
Will my diploma say ‘online’?
No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.”
Anthropology BS courses
In this program, you’ll engage in science- and mathematics-based courses that deepen your understanding of humanity. You’ll take calculus and upper-division statistics, equipping you with the quantitative skills needed to analyze complex data. Alongside these, your broad anthropological coursework will teach you how to ask critical questions about the human species, exploring our evolution, cultures and behaviors through a scientific lens.
The jobs you could get as an anthropology major
As an anthropology major, you'll develop skills that are valued across various fields, including health research, foreign service and education. This program also provides a strong foundation for those interested in pursuing advanced degrees in anthropology or attending medical school. With an anthropology background, you’ll be in high demand as a researcher or analyst, equipped with the ability to manage, evaluate and interpret large amounts of data. Employers increasingly seek professionals trained in anthropology for their broad, holistic knowledge and perspective. Potential career paths include, but aren’t limited to:
Anthropologist/Archeologist
Anthropology Professor
Compliance Manager
Investment Fund Manager
Regulatory Affairs Manager
Sociologist
Sociology Professor
Learn from experts in human history and biology
The School of Human Evolution and Social Change faculty includes four members of the National Academy of Sciences, nine Fellows of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences and nine Regents, Foundation or President’s Professors. Noteworthy faculty include:
- Anne Stone — Geneticist who helped unlock Neanderthal DNA
- Donald Johanson and William Kimbel — Discovered the Lucy fossil
- Jane Buikstra — Invented the field of bioarchaeology
- Kaye Reed — Discovered the oldest fossil of the genus Homo
Learn from experts in human history and biology
The School of Human Evolution and Social Change faculty includes four members of the National Academy of Sciences, nine Fellows of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences and nine Regents, Foundation or President’s Professors. Noteworthy faculty include:
- Anne Stone — Geneticist who helped unlock Neanderthal DNA
- Donald Johanson and William Kimbel — Discovered the Lucy fossil
- Jane Buikstra — Invented the field of bioarchaeology
- Kaye Reed — Discovered the oldest fossil of the genus Homo
How to apply
first-year student
You’re considered a first-year student for application purposes if you’ve never attended college or have fewer than 12 transferable credit hours.
Don't meet admission requirements?
You can still gain general admission to most online programs at ASU through Earned Admission. Through this pathway, you can demonstrate your ability to succeed at ASU by completing online courses with a 2.75 GPA or higher.
To begin, submit an application to ASU. An enrollment coach will reach out with more information if Earned Admission is right for you.
*Some programs may have higher admission requirements. You must meet all program requirements to be admitted.
Don't meet admission requirements?
You can still gain general admission to most online programs at ASU through Earned Admission. Through this pathway, you can demonstrate your ability to succeed at ASU by completing online courses with a 2.75 GPA or higher.
To begin, submit an application to ASU. An enrollment coach will reach out with more information if Earned Admission is right for you.
*Some programs may have higher admission requirements. You must meet all program requirements to be admitted.
Join a school focused on human history and change
ASU's School of Human Evolution and Social Change is one of the largest and most diverse anthropology programs in the country. Scale is a major asset as students can take classes and work with faculty in any part of the school. We offer an array of popular courses, taught by the same leading faculty who teach in person. As leaders in online instruction, we continually work to improve the quality of the student experience.
#1
in anthropology research expenditures
#1
nationally for publications in top-tier anthropology journals
#4
internationally for publications in top-tier anthropology journals
40
countries across six continents where our unit has a research presence
Tuition calculator
Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.
Tuition calculator
Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.
