Anthropology Majors & Minor
Our Anthropology Bachelor of Arts program provides you with the essential skills and knowledge to thrive in a globalized world. You'll develop a deep understanding of cultural diversity, learn to analyze complex social issues, and master ethnographic research methods.
With our program, you will:
- Develop In-Demand Skills: Gain expertise in research, analysis, communication, and cross-cultural understanding, highly valued by employers.
- Apply Anthropology to Real-World Problems: Explore how culture shapes our lives and learn to address social challenges in your community and beyond.
- Gain Global and Local Expertise: Study cultures from around the world and apply your knowledge to the unique context of New York City.
- Choose Your Path: Specialize in:
- Global Cultural Forms and Social Inequalities: Delve into the complexities of cultural diversity and social disparities.
- Anthropology of Law, Power, and Politics: Examine the cultural dimensions of legal and political systems
- Check out our Anthropology Four Year Advisement Plan
Contact Anthropology Major Advisor: Shonna Trinch, strinch@jjay.cuny.edu, 646-557-4403
Ever wondered why crime happens, how society defines "normal," or how we can create a more just world? Our Deviance, Crime, and Culture major delves deep into these critical questions, equipping you with the analytical and research tools to understand the complex forces shaping our communities. You'll move beyond surface-level observations to explore the intricate connections between social structures, cultural norms, and individual experiences of deviance and crime.
By the time they complete the major, students will be able to:
Interpret human behavior and institutions cross-culturally — applying anthropological insight to law, policing, and community settings in a diverse society.
Analyze power and inequality — understanding how race, gender, class, and culture shape systems of justice, social control, and institutional practice.
Design and conduct ethical qualitative research — collecting and interpreting data to inform public policy, community work, or organizational decision-making.
Communicate with clarity and cultural competence — engaging effectively with people from different backgrounds in professional, legal, and social service contexts.
Integrate theory with practice — using anthropological and social science perspectives to address real-world problems related to law, violence, and social inequality.
Exercise ethical and empathetic judgment — approaching justice work, advocacy, and research with cultural sensitivity, self-awareness, and integrity.
Contact Deviance, Crime and Culture Studies Advisor: Marta-Laura Haynes, mhaynes@jjay.cuny.edu
In today's interconnected world, understanding diverse cultures is more crucial than ever. Our Anthropology Minor offers you a unique opportunity to broaden your horizons and gain a deeper understanding of the human experience. You'll explore the rich tapestry of human variation, develop cross-cultural communication skills, and learn to appreciate the complexities of our globalized society.
Contact Anthropology Minor Advisor: Edward Snajdr, esnajdr@jjay.cuny.edu, 212-237-8262
The minor in environmental justice prepares students to work towards sustainable development and building a sustainable future. Using an interdisciplinary framework, students will learn competencies necessary for understanding and correcting injustices in our local and global communities. This minor is relevant to careers in the government, academic, private and health industries.
Contact Environmental Justice Minor Advisor: Alejandro Garcia Lozano, agarcialozano@jjay.cuny.edu