San Diego State University Anthropology Department - what's it like?

Yo! I'm super interested in studying anthropology in college and I've been looking into San Diego State University. Can anyone give me some insight into the anthropology department there? Like, how are the courses, professors, and opportunities for research or fieldwork?

Hey there! It's awesome that you're interested in studying anthropology at San Diego State University (SDSU). While I haven't attended SDSU myself, I can give you some general info about the anthropology department.

Courses: The program at SDSU offers a solid variety of courses covering different subfields of anthropology such as cultural anthropology, biological anthropology, archaeology, and linguistic anthropology. You'll have the opportunity to explore various topics, including ethnicity, gender, globalization, and languages.

Professors: The department is recognized for its dedicated and experienced faculty who have both practical and teaching experience in the field of anthropology. Many of the professors have done extensive field research, published academic papers, and presented at conferences. While each professor will have their teaching style, you can check websites like RateMyProfessors to get a better idea of what students think about the professors in the anthropology department at SDSU.

Research Opportunities: SDSU has a commitment to research, and the anthropology department is no exception. Students have the chance to get involved with faculty research projects or pursue their independent research, often under the mentorship of a professor. Keep an eye out for opportunities by regularly checking the anthropology department's website or talking to your professors.

Fieldwork: Fieldwork is an important aspect of studying anthropology. At SDSU, the department offers a few opportunities for students to participate in field schools, internships, or study abroad experiences related to anthropology. These opportunities can be invaluable for gaining practical experience and getting a feel for real-world anthropological work.

One of the notable centers within the department is the South Coastal Information Center (SCIC), which carries out archaeological research, cultural resource management, and offers internships. These internships can provide valuable experience in archaeology, GIS, report writing, and lab work, among others.

Overall, SDSU's anthropology department seems to be a well-rounded program that offers a strong foundation in the discipline, passionate professors, and opportunities for practical experience. While it's important to do your research and speak with current students or alumni to get an insider's perspective, SDSU's anthropology department appears to be a great place to explore your passion for anthropology. Good luck!