Anthropology

Are you interested in anatomy and forensic investigation? Do you envision a career in archaeology, managing excavations and interpreting material culture? Or are you drawn to studying human behavior, growth and health across diverse cultural contexts? East Carolina University’s Master of Arts (MA) program in anthropology provides advanced training necessary to achieve a successful career in these paths and more.

Students receive rigorous academic preparation combined with practical training in one of several areas of specialization. With their expertise in forensics, Middle Eastern archaeology, bioarchaeology, primatology, coastal and environmental studies, and medical anthropology, our faculty provide students with many opportunities for research and professional development. Our biocultural expertise is uniquely strong, making us a great place to explore the dynamic relationship between biology and culture in shaping human behavior and variation, both within and across populations. The MA is our only graduate degree, meaning that all MA students receive regular and proactive mentoring toward career-focused practicum, internship or thesis research experiences.

ECU Advantage

The program is designed with flexible degree pathways that allow students to tailor their training to individual career goals. Students may complete a thesis, pursue an internship, or target advanced coursework to build applied skills. Across all tracks, students receive intensive training in field and lab methods, research design and possible career pathways while working closely with faculty. Our first-to-second year retention rate averages over 90%, and most of our students complete the MA within two academic years.

ECU's MA graduates are well prepared for professional positions in cultural resource management, forensics, public health, community development, research analysis (including quantitative analytics) and related fields. We also maintain a strong record of preparing students for admission to competitive doctoral programs. Our active, supportive alumni base offers additional opportunities for student engagement and networking.

The Department of Anthropology is housed in Flanagan Hall, which provides dedicated classroom, laboratory and graduate office space, as well as a student lounge, kitchen and departmental library. These facilities support both independent and collaborative work, ensuring students have access to the resources needed for advanced study. In addition to multiple teaching and research assistantship opportunities, our students benefit from particularly low in-state tuition charges.

ECU's program places a strong emphasis on experiential learning. Students can benefit from:

• Graduate assistantships and competitive tuition remissions for out-of-state students.
• Summer field schools in archaeology, primatology and medical anthropology.
• International opportunities in bioarchaeological research in Israel and Jordan.
• Forensic casework and body recovery operations conducted in collaboration with local law enforcement.
• Community-based research initiatives in cultural and medical anthropology, including projects that contribute directly to regional health improvement.

The program combines specialized field and lab training with a robust academic foundation and opportunities for applied research. Through a combination of coursework, field experience and faculty mentorship, our students gain the skills they need to advance in a broad array of career paths, or to pursue advanced academic study in anthropology and related fields.