Graduate Degree Programs

The Anthropology Department offers the following programs at the graduate level:

Masters in Visual Anthropology (MVA) 

An intensive program combining academic coursework and hands-on training in ethnographic documentary techniques, including researching, shooting, and editing a documentary (usually 20 to 30 minutes long) using digital media. The program is offered in collaboration with Media Arts + Practice at the USC School of Cinematic Arts.

Please note: We are pausing MVA admissions in 2023 in order to make curricular revisions.

Doctorate in Anthropology (PhD)

The USC Dornsife Anthropology Department’s newly envisioned PhD program offers a strong foundation in the history, theory and practice of anthropology, while enabling students to develop a practice-based and formally innovative dissertation. Working closely with faculty from within Anthropology, students are encouraged to partner with faculty across the university’s other units and professional schools to craft a plan of study tailored to the student’s research project.