
Anthropology
Apply for AdmissionWhy Study Anthropology?
Anthropology, the science of humankind, explores what it means to be human from the broadest possible perspective. An anthropological perspective is essential to thriving personally and professionally in our 21st century globalized world.
Because of its study of culture and human behavior, anthropology is a social science; in its study of human physical traits, anthropology is a biological science.
To investigate human behavior, anthropologists collect and analyze data from every type of society, past and present. From this wide perspective, anthropology helps us understand other peoples and thereby enables us to better understand ourselves.
A Broad Global Understanding
Anthropology, the science of humankind, explores what it means to be human from the broadest possible perspective. An anthropological perspective is essential to thriving personally and professionally in our 21st century globalized world.
Because of its study of culture and human behavior, anthropology is a social science; in its study of human physical traits, anthropology is a biological science.
To investigate human behavior, anthropologists collect and analyze data from every type of society, past and present. From this wide perspective, anthropology helps us understand other peoples and thereby enables us to better understand ourselves.
In the Classroom
The Department of Anthropology at º£½ÇÉçÇø turns the traditional classroom inside out by emphasizing experiential learning.
We offer an excellent range of courses that expose students to all facets of anthropology, including cultural anthropology, archaeology, human evolution, forensics, linguistics, medical anthropology, magic and religion, lost civilizations, and modern and ancient cultures of California and the world.
Tutoring is Available for all Classes!The drop-in tutoring hours for Anthropology students are variable, please ask your professor for the latest information. |
Studying in Silicon Valley
In the heart of global innovation, Silicon Valley is where technology meets culture — and where boundaries are reimagined every day. Here, people aren’t just building new tools; they’re transforming the way we connect, communicate, and understand one another.
As our world grows increasingly interconnected, the need for cultural insight has never been greater. Anthropology provides the lens to make sense of it all — helping you understand people, systems, and societies in a time of rapid change. Employers seek graduates who can think critically, adapt globally, and bridge the human side of technology. You are the next generation of anthropologists — ready to shape a smarter, more connected world.
What can you do with a degree in Anthropology?

A major in Anthropology can prepare you for:
- User Experience Researcher
- Field Archaeologist
- Laboratory Assistant
- UX Researcher
- Museum Technician
- Teacher
- Analyst
- Community Development Specialist
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Experiential Learning & Community Engagement
Click on each section below to learn more about our fieldwork certificate, career pathways, and community engagement.
The Certificate of Achievement in Archaeological Field Work prepares students for entry-level positions in Cultural Resource Management (CRM), a leading employment sector in archaeology. Completion of an archaeological field school is a standard requirement for professional employment in the field and is also expected for admission to many graduate programs worldwide.
This certificate provides hands-on training in both field and laboratory settings, allowing students to actively participate in archaeological research. Coursework develops essential professional skills, including survey and excavation methods, mapping and site documentation, artifact identification, processing, and analysis.
The program also emphasizes ethical practice and community engagement. Students explore concepts such as Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK), Indigenous archaeology, and community-based participatory research, integrating these perspectives into their field and laboratory work.
Upon completion, students are formally recognized for completing a rigorous fieldwork program and are well prepared to pursue employment opportunities with Cultural Resource Management firms across the country.
Our faculty and students are actively conducting research and learning about social science research methods in the community.
Applied anthropology is the process of doing anthropology to serve the public.
A critically important aspect of the student experience at Foothill Anthropology has been to use the much needed anthropological perspective as a way to inform people about their world.
Community outreach and K-12 education has been a hallmark of our recent work. Our Anthropology in Action program has begun to connect with local grade schools and we are working to develop many new avenues for integrating with the community, such as working with local businesses to improve cultural competence and joining with public health institutions to improve their understanding of medical anthropology.
Degrees & Certificates
View list below for programs offered at Foothill. Then select program map for a possible schedule that fulfills program and college requirements.
For program requirements and full course listings, view .
- Archaeological Field Work, CA
Ways to Experience More!
At Foothill, we offer many opportunities to get involved outside the classroom.
Gain real-world experience through paid internships with mission-driven nonprofit organizations. Build professional skills, connect coursework to careers, and work with community partners across the region.
Travel, study, and gain real-world experience through Foothill’s faculty-led global programs. Explore new cultures, earn academic credit, and participate in service learning, research, and study abroad around the world.
Related Programs and Degrees
