They pursue that interest by studying: the wide range of contemporary human societies; by interpreting the past through the material records left by earlier civilizations; by piecing together the biological development of human beings through the fossil record; and by recording and analyzing many of the undocumented languages of the world’s remaining tribal peoples. All of these activities involve what anthropologists call ‘fieldwork.’

Fieldwork is research that is undertaken outside of the college classroom, often in an environment that is both beautiful and challenging. The anthropology program at Cleveland State University includes fieldwork as well as laboratory analysis as central parts of the curriculum.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

The first question that anyone asks an anthropology major is, “What can you do with a degree in anthropology?” While there are few employers in Cleveland who advertise for anthropologists, the training in social science methods and the acquisition of a thorough understanding of global human diversity that are part of the program of study in anthropology are qualifications that strengthen the resume of any job seeker.

Some Cleveland State University graduates in anthropology pursue further study in anthropology. Some even go on to earn their doctorates. The department has two faculty members who earned their bachelors’ degrees in anthropology from Cleveland State. Other graduates pursue graduate study in related areas such as sociology, communications, linguistics, and urban studies. Some anthropology majors obtain secondary-level certification in social studies. Graduates with an interest in archaeology can pursue employment through contract archaeology firms in the private and public sectors. One Cleveland State graduate began her own contract archaeology firm in southern Ohio.