M.A. in Anthropology
The University of Tulsa, a respected private research institution in the United States,...
M.A. in Anthropology
Tulsa, Oklahoma
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The University of Tulsa, a respected private research institution in the United States, offers a robust M.A. in Anthropology program designed to cultivate critical thinking and analytical prowess in students aspiring to understand our multicultural world. With a low student-faculty ratio (5:1) and a nearly 100% placement rate for its graduates, the program emphasizes a comprehensive understanding of human cultures, societies, and behaviors, drawing from the four traditional subfields of anthropology: archaeology, cultural anthropology, biological (physical) anthropology, and linguistics. This broad approach ensures graduates are well-versed in the complexity of human history and contemporary global issues, preparing them for diverse careers or further academic pursuits.
Curriculum: The M.A. in Anthropology program at the University of Tulsa typically requires 30 credit hours for a thesis option or 36 credit hours for a non-thesis option. Core coursework aims to provide a strong foundation in anthropological theory and method. While the program broadly covers the four subfields, there's a particular focus on archaeology and biological anthropology, allowing for in-depth specialization. Examples of courses include Human Osteology, Qualitative Methods in Anthropological Research, Cultural Resources Management, Analysis of Lithic Artifacts, and Quantitative Analysis in Anthropology. The curriculum encourages the development of strong critical thinking, reading, and writing skills, culminating in an original research project for thesis-track students.
Research Focus: The University of Tulsa's Anthropology department boasts a dynamic research environment, supported by state-of-the-art laboratories and extensive collections. Faculty research spans diverse geographic regions, including North America (with a strong emphasis on the southeastern US and Oklahoma), Europe, the Middle East (Jordan, Israel, Cyprus), and Asia (China). Key research areas include archaeology, paleoanthropology, zooarchaeology, Native American studies, ecological archaeology, lithic analysis, human-environment interactions, chipped stone morphometrics, use-wear and materiality, human behavioral ecology, and population dynamics. Students have access to unique resources like a large lithic raw material collection (the largest in the U.S.), a Near Eastern lithic collection, a Southeastern United States artifact collection, and teaching collections encompassing paleoanthropological casts, human osteology, and zooarchaeological specimens. Specialized instruments like a Sensofar S-Neox confocal and interferometry microscope, laser scanners, and a scanning electron microscope further enhance research capabilities.
Industry Engagement: The M.A. in Anthropology program at the University of Tulsa is highly applied, preparing graduates for a range of professional careers. Alumni find success in various sectors, including cultural resource management (CRM) firms, government agencies (e.g., Osage Nation Historic Preservation Office, Muscogee (Creek) Nation Historic and Cultural Preservation, Oklahoma Department of Transportation, U.S. Department of the Interior), museums, and educational institutions. Students have ample opportunities to engage in practical projects and assist faculty in ongoing archaeological research in both domestic and international settings. Internships can be arranged at institutions like the Gilcrease Museum, providing invaluable hands-on experience and networking opportunities within the field. This strong industry connection ensures graduates are well-equipped with the skills demanded by contemporary anthropological and archaeological roles.
Global Perspective: The very nature of anthropology at the University of Tulsa inherently fosters a global perspective, as it involves the comprehensive study of humanity across diverse cultures and throughout history. The faculty's research interests span multiple continents, providing students with exposure to a wide array of cultural contexts and archaeological sites. The program encourages students to participate in fieldwork projects globally, further broadening their understanding of human experiences in different environments. This international outlook prepares graduates to be culturally sensitive professionals capable of addressing complex global challenges, whether through academic research, cultural preservation, or international development. The curriculum also emphasizes cross-cultural diversity, promoting a deeper understanding of human behavior and societal structures worldwide.
Location
Tulsa, Oklahoma
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 27858
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 70% or above in their bachelor's degree.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 or 7.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 80 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 56 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 105.
The University of Tulsa (TU) in the United States offers a variety of scholarship opportunities to support international students in their academic journey. Attracting talented students from around the world, TU provides both merit-based and need-based scholarships to help reduce the financial burden of higher education.
Merit-Based Scholarships: International students admitted to TU are automatically considered for merit-based scholarships based on their academic achievements, standardized test scores, and overall application strength. These scholarships can significantly offset tuition costs, with awards ranging from partial tuition waivers to full scholarships. The university looks for outstanding academic records, leadership qualities, and extracurricular involvement when awarding these scholarships.
International Student Scholarships: TU offers specific scholarships aimed at international students, including renewable awards that encourage academic excellence throughout the duration of the degree program. Some scholarships are designated for particular fields of study or for students demonstrating strong community involvement.
Graduate Assistantships and Fellowships: Graduate international students may apply for assistantships and fellowships that provide tuition remission and stipends in exchange for teaching or research responsibilities. These positions not only offer financial support but also valuable professional experience within the university environment.
An M.A. in Anthropology from the University of Tulsa provides graduates with a highly versatile skillset, preparing them for a diverse range of career paths both within and beyond traditional anthropological fields. The program's emphasis on critical thinking, research methodologies, cross-cultural understanding, and data analysis makes its graduates highly sought after by various sectors. The University of Tulsa boasts a nearly 100% placement rate for its anthropology master's graduates, with over 75% securing positions directly related to anthropology or archaeology.
Archaeologist (Cultural Resource Management - CRM): This is a primary career path for graduates with the University of Tulsa's strong focus on archaeology. CRM firms are frequently contracted for environmental impact assessments and compliance, requiring skilled archaeologists to identify, evaluate, and mitigate the impact on cultural resources before construction or development projects.
Cultural Resources Manager: Beyond fieldwork, some graduates ascend to management roles within CRM firms or government agencies (e.g., state historic preservation offices, tribal historic preservation offices like the Osage Nation Historic Preservation Office or Muscogee (Creek) Nation Historic and Cultural Preservation). They oversee projects, manage teams, and ensure regulatory compliance.
Museum Curator/Collections Manager: With access to world-class collections at the University of Tulsa and potential internships at institutions like the Gilcrease Museum, graduates are well-prepared for roles in museums. They research, manage, and interpret artifacts, develop exhibitions, and contribute to public education.
Forensic Anthropologist (Consultant/Researcher): Specializing in biological anthropology, graduates can work with law enforcement agencies or medical examiners to identify human remains, analyze skeletal trauma, and assist in criminal investigations. This often involves a strong research component, sometimes in university or museum settings.
Government Analyst/Specialist: Various government agencies at local, state, and federal levels employ anthropologists. Roles can include cultural liaison officers, research analysts, policy advisors, or specialists in areas like natural resource management, public health, or international development (e.g., U.S. Department of the Interior, Oklahoma Department of Transportation, Army Corps of Engineers).
Community Development Specialist/Non-profit Program Manager: The in-depth understanding of human cultures and societal dynamics gained from an anthropology degree makes graduates valuable assets for non-profit organizations and NGOs focused on community development, social justice, human rights, or international aid. They design and implement programs that are culturally sensitive and effective.
Market Researcher/Consumer Behavior Analyst: In the corporate world, anthropologists apply ethnographic research methods to understand consumer preferences, cultural trends, and human behavior in relation to products and services. Their insights help businesses develop more effective marketing strategies and products.
University Professor/Instructor (Community Colleges): While a Ph.D. is typically required for full professorships, M.A. graduates can find teaching opportunities at community colleges or as adjunct instructors, sharing their knowledge of anthropology with undergraduate students.
Archivist/Librarian (Special Collections): Anthropology graduates possess excellent research and organizational skills, which are highly beneficial in roles involving the preservation and organization of historical documents, records, and ethnographic materials, often found in university archives or specialized libraries.
Heritage Preservationist: Working for organizations dedicated to preserving historical sites, cultural landscapes, and traditional practices. This can involve documentation, conservation, and advocating for the protection of cultural heritage.
