This a joint degree combining a JD with a PhD in Anthropology. The Anthropology Graduate Program emphasizes the training of PhD candidates. A PhD certifies that the holder has been trained to perform independent research at a professional level of competence in at least one of the major subfields of Anthropology:
- Anthropological Archeology
- Biological [Physical] Anthropology
- Cultural Anthropology
- Linguistic Anthropology
Each program of study and research is individualized and the timing for completion varies. Total years to a degree has ranged from 5 years for transfer students to 9 years for students with an MA degree and/or additional fieldwork.
At the time of matriculation, students work together with the Graduate Group (GG) Chair to determine an appropriate advisor. Advisors work with students on a regular basis in order to determine the shape of their program each semester. The general schedule provided on the Anthropology PhD website can be used as a template for planning purposes.
The Department of Anthropology at the University of Pennsylvania will not accept applications for the PhD program during the 2020-21 admissions cycle. The School of Arts of Sciences made this difficult decision in order to focus resources on supporting current students during the COVID-19 pandemic and ensure that there is adequate resourcing to support future cohorts of Penn graduate students.
The program may be able to accept applications for the PhD program during the 2021-22 admissions cycle.
The program will continue to accept MA applicants during the 2020-21 admissions cycle.
Interested students should apply for admission to both the Department of Anthropology and the Law School. Students should note on both applications that they have applied for the other.
In the event of admission to both programs, Anthropology will be the secondary department and funding will come from the Law School. There may be a rare case where a student who already has been accepted into the PhD program may apply for admission to the Law School and to the Dual Degree Program in their first year of study.
For more information, admitted or current JD students should contact Amanda S. Aronoff. Applicants or prospective applicants to the Law School should contact contactadmissions@law.upenn.edu.