About
Our Impact
Today, USF is recognized as a leading program in Applied Anthropology, with a long-standing
reputation for innovation, impact, and excellence in training. Our program has helped
define the field and continues to set the standard for integrating anthropological
knowledge with real-world practice.
Our undergraduate program has trained thousands of students since the department鈥檚
founding and these have gone on to successful careers in a wide range of fields. Whether
pursued as a major, double major, or minor, anthropology students develop valuable
skills in critical thinking, research, communication, and cultural analysis. Our graduates
go on to top graduate programs as well as careers in fields as varied as public health,
education, business, technology, government, and nonprofit organizations. 
The strength of our graduate programs is reflected in the success of our alumni. With
more than 800 M.A. and Ph.D. graduates worldwide, USF-trained anthropologists are
making an impact both inside and outside academia. While many hold faculty and research
positions at universities, a significant number apply anthropological methods in professional
settings鈥攁ddressing complex challenges in medicine, social services, technological
development, cultural resource management, tourism, heritage stewardship, education,
public health, international aid, emergency management, and beyond.
Our faculty are internationally recognized leaders in their fields, conducting innovative
research that addresses pressing global and local issues. The department has a strong
record of external funding, including support from the National Science Foundation
and other prestigious organizations. Faculty and students alike have earned numerous
honors, including Fulbright awards, reflecting the quality and reach of our scholarship.
Together, our community of scholars and practitioners continues to advance applied anthropology and prepare students to make meaningful contributions in a rapidly changing world.