We are delighted about your interest in the Anthropology PhD program at the University of Wisconsin-Madison!
Students interested in pursuing degrees in anthropology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison will find themselves members of a vibrant intellectual community. The university is an important crossroads where a diversity of debate and intellectual exchange can be found. The department is actively involved in this diverse community and regularly invites renowned scholars from all over the world to give talks and hold seminars. When a new student is admitted to the department that student also becomes a colleague to a diverse group of scholars. The department recognizes that the methods, perspectives, and theoretical orientation originating in anthropology have now invigorated many other disciplines. This blurring of the borders between disciplines has created a rich cross- fertilization. The department encourages students to take part in this process, by taking courses and attending talks offered by other sections within the department and by finding intellectual community, scholarly events, and coursework in other departments.
The primary focus of the Department of Anthropology is on the doctoral degree. A master’s degree is awarded in the process of pursuing the Ph.D., but students are not admitted for the sole purpose of obtaining a master’s degree. The Department of Anthropology offers prospective graduate students the opportunity to pursue study within one of three major subfields of contemporary anthropology: archaeology, biological anthropology, and cultural anthropology. Students may also pursue an intersectional degree in any two sections.
To learn more about our graduate program, please explore the information in the tabs below. To get a better sense of the department as a whole, please explore all of the department’s webpages using the links at the top of this page.
You may also wish to contact the Anthropology Graduate Program Manager, Erika Petrie at anthrograd@mailplus.wisc.edu, for information about the program or the Anthropology Director of Graduate Studies, Professor Amy Stambach at amy.stambach@wisc.edu, for information on connecting to your specific interests in Anthropology. Connect with current Anthropology graduate students to learn about their experience in our program.
- Admissions
- Graduate Program Handbook
- UW Graduate School Policies and Procedures
- Additional Resources
Fields of Study at the UW-Madison Department of Anthropology
Archaeology
Archaeology is the investigation and analysis of the remains from past cultures, uncovered through excavation.
Biological Anthropology
Biological Anthropology is the study of human evolution and the roots of the biological and genetic diversity found among contemporary peoples.
Cultural Anthropology
Cultural Anthropology is the comparative study of society, politics, economy, religion, and culture, whether in historical times or in our contemporary moment.
Intersectional Degree Program
We offer an Intersectional Degree Program for students who combine interests in two of the major subfields. While there are important differences among the three sections within the department, there also are significant overlaps. We encourage students to explore the similarities and to benefit from the different approaches that characterize the three sections.
Application for Graduate Study in Anthropology
Current UW Graduate Students Apply here
The application deadline is December 1 for the following fall semester. All documents and test scores must be complete and submitted by December 1 for your application to be deemed complete for review and consideration.
WE DO NOT ACCEPT APPLICATIONS FOR SPRING OR SUMMER ADMISSIONS
Things to Submit Online for Graduate Admissions
Transcripts Undergraduate grade point averages (GPA), one transcript (may be unofficial for purposes of departmental review for admissions) from each previously attended university with the application. Applicants accepted to a program will be sent an email by the Graduate School asking for official transcripts with instructions on how they must be sent.
Statement of Purpose This statement should identify your specific areas of interest and reasons why they are of interest. Also, explain how and why you aspire to advance knowledge in the field of Anthropology. An explanation of why you feel our department is the best place for you to pursue these interests.
Three (3) Letters of Recommendation When applying online through the graduate school a recommendation request can be sent by email to each of your references. The email will include your name with a link to each department’s electronic recommendation form. The request can be sent at any time providing you meet department deadlines. You can change references or send a reminder through your application. We recommend that you contact your references ahead of time, so that they can expect your request for recommendation. After you have submitted your application, you and your department can view receipt of your recommendations through the online status system.
- Supplemental Application Materials – Complete and submit electronically as supplement during online application. Download the supplemental application checklist. Indicate the faculty that you are interested in working with and your major interests within anthropology. Use the faculty specialty listing to inform your selection. Be as specific as possible in your selection and list three or four options. Include a list of anthropology and cognate courses you have taken or will take before attending UW-Madison.
- Official GRE scores Applicants are not required to submit their GRE scores. Applicants can submit their GRE scores as supplemental materials. If you wish to submit your scores, they are requested by the applicant and submitted electronically to UW-Madison institution code 1846 by Educational Testing Service. Copies, faxes and PDFs are considered unofficial.
- English Proficiency Requirement International degree-seeking applications are required to prove English proficiency. Refer to the Graduate School Requirements page for specific information about this requirement.
Optional
- A list of any honors gained as an undergraduate, such as Phi Beta Kappa membership, scholarships, etc., include with your online application.
- Curriculum vitae, include with your online application.
- Writing Samples such as research-based papers or other documents relevant to your credentials; reprints of any professional publications; include with your online application.
- Applicants can submit their GRE scores as supplemental materials.
For questions about the Graduate School admissions process call: 608.262.2433. For program specific questions, contact the Anthropology Graduate Program Manager at 608.262.2869 or anthrograd@mailplus.wisc.edu.
For International Students
International Student Services
Graduate Program Manager
The Anthropology Graduate Program Handbook summarizes the degree and course requirements and departmental policies and procedures for the PhD program. The Anthropology graduate handbook is updated on a regular basis with program updates and any policy changes implemented by the Anthropology Program or the Graduate School. Anthropology Program information and requirement details are also at the Anthropology Graduate Guide Pages.
*The handbook table of contents is clickable and will navigate you to a specific section of the document.
Department of Anthropology Grad Studies Handbook — Version 4 of AY2023-2024 — published January 2024
Department of Anthropology Grad Studies Handbook — Version 2 of AY2023-2024 — published October 2023