UC Santa Barbara Anthropology: Is it a Good Program?

Hey there! I'm really interested in anthropology and I've been looking at UC Santa Barbara as a school option. Does anyone know if their anthropology program is well-regarded or has any experiences to share?

Hey! UC Santa Barbara (UCSB) has a solid anthropology program that is typically well-regarded. The Department of Anthropology offers three subfields: Archaeology, Biological Anthropology, and Cultural Anthropology. This allows students to delve into different aspects of anthropology depending on their interests. UCSB's anthropology program emphasizes both fieldwork and laboratory-based research, providing students with hands-on experience to apply what they're learning in the classroom.

Additionally, UCSB's location near the Pacific Rim, Pacific Islands, and Native American territories makes it an excellent place for students interested in the anthropology of these regions. There are various research centers and opportunities available for anthropology students, such as the Integrative Subsurface Analyses Group and Rancho Marino Reserve, as well as partnerships with museums and cultural institutions in the area.

One thing to keep in mind is that while UCSB's anthropology program may not be as prestigious as certain Ivies or highly-ranked private colleges, it still maintains a strong focus on research and faculty who are experts in their subfields. Students have the opportunity to work closely with faculty on research projects and the department fosters a collaborative atmosphere.

In summary, if you're interested in anthropology with a focus on hands-on experiences and research opportunities, UCSB could be a great fit for you. If possible, I'd recommend visiting the campus and sitting in on a few anthropology lectures to get a sense of the program and its culture. Also, you might want to reach out to current anthropology students or alumni to hear about their personal experiences. Good luck with your college search!