Applied Anthropology University of North Texas

Overview

The Applied Anthropology programme at the University of North Texas provides students with the essential skills to become effective practitioners, researchers, and administrators. This degree is specifically designed to bridge the gap between anthropological theory and the practical application of knowledge in real-world settings.

Students can choose between a traditional on-campus experience in Denton or the flexibility of the nation’s first online master’s in this field. The curriculum is structured to accommodate working professionals, with many physical classes held in the evenings to ensure accessibility for those balancing careers and education.

Why Applied Anthropology at University of North Texas?

The University of North Texas holds a prestigious reputation in this discipline, with the programme previously ranked first in the nation for best value. Students benefit from a prime location within a major urban area, providing a rich environment for applied research projects involving diverse global populations and migrants.

The faculty members are seasoned experts with extensive backgrounds in bilingual education, sustainable communities, and health. Their research spans multiple continents, including Africa, Latin America, and Europe, offering students a global perspective on issues such as food insecurity, environmental justice, and urban development.

A distinctive feature of this M.A. is the emphasis on marketable skills, including advanced teamwork, leadership, and qualitative research methods. Furthermore, students must demonstrate proficiency in a foreign language, ensuring they are well-prepared for international engagement and diverse professional environments.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 16404 per year
• National fee: USD 16404 per year
• Local fee: USD 8700 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum consists of 36 credit hours and focuses on both methodology and theory. Modules may include:

• Ethnographic and Qualitative Methods
• Quantitative Methods in Anthropology
• Migrants and Refugees
• Environmental Anthropology
• Anthropology of Education
• Anthropological Thought and Praxis I

Careers with Applied Anthropology

Graduates from the University of North Texas often pursue careers as practitioners rather than remaining solely in academia. The skills gained during the programme allow alumni to secure roles in healthcare, environmental services, and non-profit management across various sectors.

Recent graduates have found success in diverse positions such as Epidemiology Specialists, Social Scientists, and Strategic Digital Analysts. Employers include organisations like the National Weather Service, Parkland Hospital, Habitat for Humanity, and various marketing communications agencies.

The programme also prepares students for roles in public policy and urban planning. Alumni work as Outdoor Recreation Planners for the Bureau of Land Management or as Research Analysts for cultural institutions, demonstrating the broad utility of an applied anthropological toolkit in the modern workforce.