Anthropology Department

Graduate Program Admissions

How to Apply to Our Graduate Program

The Anthropology Department accepts applicants for graduate study for the Fall semester only. Completed applications are due January 10th.

Due to the number of students applying to our MA Program in Anthropology, as well as the MA degree in Museum Studies Option, the Department seldom accepts students whose grade point average is lower than 3.0 in their last 60 semester units (or 90 quarter units) of undergraduate work. We no longer require Graduate Record Exam (GRE) scores.

Applicants must either have a baccalaureate degree or, if the degree is expected by the time of admittance, must be in good academic standing at the institution they are attending. The degree granting institution must be accredited by a regional accrediting association. If, however, a prospective graduate student is a graduate of a non-accredited institution that is judged by the Office of Graduate Studies to be acceptable, the student may apply for admission under special circumstances.

Applying to the Anthropology Graduate Program

All items below are to be submitted to the Cal State Apply online application. 

Application form and additional information is available at the Graduate Studies web page

  1. Set up a Cal State Apply account  
  2. Select our program for your application  
  3. Fill out the four quadrants of the application: personal information, academic history including all postsecondary transcripts, supporting information including at least two letters of recommendation, and program-specific materials (see below). 
  4. The Department of Anthropology requires a statement of purpose that is at least one page in length but not exceeding two pages and includes: 
    1. A brief autobiographical sketch
    2. A statement of your goals and specific subfield interest in anthropology and our graduate program
    3. Why and how Chico State can help you achieve your goals
    4. Any other information that may serve to distinguish you from other applicants
  5. The Anthropology Department also requires one copy of your updated Curriculum Vitae or resume and a writing sample (i.e. term paper, publications). 
  6. When you are ready to complete your application, be sure to have the following: your social security number (if you have one), your citizenship status (both citizens and noncitizens are able to apply), a credit card or PayPal account for application fees, and your annual income.

Note: Although the Anthropology Department has an early January deadline, please be aware that applications will not be reviewed until mid January.

Applicants will be notified of their admission status by late spring.

Questions?

Please direct any questions to Anthropology Graduate Coordinator.