PhD Program – How to Apply

Before applying to our PhD program, click here for helpful information and consult the PhD Student Handbook to answer many of your questions about the program. You should also look into the research and backgrounds of faculty in the Anthropology program, to see if our program is a good fit for your interests. You are highly encouraged to contact faculty to discuss how your interests may intersect, prior to applying.


Other Graduate Student Resources:


Required Documents for Admission

Note that the Applied Anthropology Graduate Program strives to practice holistic admissions processes, guided by the Oregon State University Holistic Admissions Working Group.

All items below must be sent to the OSU Graduate School.

  1. OSU Application form
  2. Official transcripts showing completion (or expected completion) of a Master's degree in Anthropology or related field with anthropology coursework, and a cumulative GPA of at least 3.5.  Submit official transcripts, not web-generated printouts of your grades, to the OSU Graduate School.
  3. Three letters of reference. At least two letters should be from university professors closely associated with the applicant's work. One can be from a professional in their field of  interest.  The electronic reference letter system, located on the Graduate Admissions site, will send requests to three reference writers indicated by you on your admission application. (Recommendation letters can be typed into a text box on a web-based form, or uploaded as an attachment.)
  4. Statement of interest including a proposed Ph.D. project, of no more than 1000 words and no more than one page of bibliography. Be sure to address how OSU's curriculum and Anthropology faculty could contribute to your proposed project.
  5. A recent writing sample (term paper, chapter of an MA thesis, book review, published article, blog, etc.)
  6. A resume of academic and applied accomplishments (work experience in chosen area of research is preferred). Please limit to 2 pages total.
  7. TOEFL exam scores (for international students only)
  8. Demonstrated proficiency in a second language equivalent to that obtained at the end of a second-year university course in that language (ACTFL intermediate high)

As of June 2020, the GRE is no longer a requirement for admission to the Applied Anthropology Graduate Program (Masters or PhD) at Oregon State University.

All materials must be received at the OSU Graduate School by January 15.

Students with a Masters degree in Anthropology from Oregon State University will be considered for admission to the PhD program, but are also encouraged to apply elsewhere.