MA in Anthropology - Applied Community and Economic Development, Illinois State University

24 Months

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About this course

This program offers a variety of graduate degrees including M.A. and M.S. in Sociology and Anthropology, as well as a Graduate Certificate in Social Aspects of Aging. The degrees are designed to provide in-depth understanding in social sciences, with options to focus on specific areas like Sociology, Anthropology, and Aging. Each program emphasizes research, with requirements such as thesis projects and specialized coursework. The curriculum is tailored to prepare students for careers in research, community development, or further academic pursuits, combining coursework, electives, and practical internships, especially within sequences like Applied Community and Economic Development.

Why this course is highly recommended

This program is well-suited for students aiming to deepen their understanding of social sciences with opportunities to focus on specialized areas. The inclusion of sequences like the Applied Community and Economic Development, and the chance to work on thesis or capstone projects, makes it ideal for those seeking practical, research-oriented experiences. Additionally, the program’s flexibility to accommodate previous international or domestic service experience and its partnership with diverse departments enhance its applicability for a wide range of professional goals.

Specialisation

Students can specialise in areas like Sociology or Anthropology, with concentrations such as Biological Anthropology, Cultural Anthropology, Historical Archaeology, Japanese Studies, and Prehistoric Archaeology. The programs also include a focus on applied fields like community and economic development, tailored for students with relevant experience such as Peace Corps service. The Anthropology program allows for individualized concentrations, emphasizing elective courses and specific research interests.

Course fees

Application fees

1st year tuition fees

14.60L

Living cost

Degree requirements

For the Sociology M.A./M.S., students need to complete a total of 38 hours, including coursework, a thesis, and electives, with specific courses like SOC 440, SOC 466, SOC 471, SOC 472, and SOC 493A01. The Anthropology degrees require 30 hours in one of several concentrations, involving coursework, electives, and a thesis. The Applied Community and Economic Development sequences involve additional core courses and an internship. The Graduate Certificate in Social Aspects of Aging requires 12 hours of coursework including seminars and electives, with practical experience credits.

English language test

DUOLINGO

105

IELTS

6.5

TOEFL

PTE

Want to learn more about the admission process, eligibility criteria, and acceptance rates for international students? Visit the Illinois State University admission page for complete details.

Career prospects

Graduates of these programs can pursue careers in social research, community development, cultural resource management, or further academic research. The applied sequences prepare students for roles involving policy, economic development, or international work, especially with a background in specific concentrations like archaeology or anthropology. The emphasis on research, internships, and practical training also supports careers in social services, government agencies, or NGOs.

FAQs

Can students apply graduate courses taken during undergraduate studies to their master's program?

Yes, high achieving students who graduated with a degree in ISU's Accelerated Anthropology undergraduate program can apply up to 12 hours of approved graduate courses towards both degrees.

Are internships a part of the applied sequences?

Yes, the Applied Community and Economic Development sequences include an 11-month internship arranged through the Stevenson Center.