Committed to Understanding Humanity
Anthropology is the study of what it means to be human—culturally and biologically, in both the past and present. At the University of San Diego, students learn from engaged faculty who bring vital research and teaching expertise into the classroom. The program emphasizes the complexity of human and primate diversity across time and place, with a focus on applying this knowledge to current global challenges. Faculty mentorship and hands-on opportunities that include local and international fieldwork to help students connect academic learning with real-world experience.
Explore Curriculum
Anthropology graduates build strong communication and critical thinking skills for careers in public health, education, cultural resource management, museums, nonprofit work and related fields. Many pursue graduate study in anthropology, law, medicine or the social sciences.
Inside our classes
Anthropology in Action
New Class Fall 2026
Ethical True Crime
This Fall, USD students can take a new Anthropology course exploring the true crime genre through a critical lens. Moving beyond entertainment, students will examine how storytelling shapes perceptions of justice, bias, and victimhood, with attention to communities disproportionately impacted by violence.
Hear From Our Anthropology Community
Where USD Anthropology Grads Work
Anthropology graduates are well-prepared for careers and graduate school in international business, resource management, environmental concerns, teaching, educational administration, public service and archaeology.