What is a Terminal Master’s Degree?
A terminal master’s degree is the highest degree needed to qualify for careers in a profession without earning a PhD. Career options in anthropology with a terminal master’s degree vary across subdisciplines but generally fall under the rubric of “applied anthropology,” meaning the use of anthropological concepts and methods to address real-world problems. UF Anthropology offers two terminal master’s degrees: a Master of Arts in Anthropology and, starting in Fall 2026, a Master of Science in Archaeology.
What is the Terminal Master of Arts in Anthropology?
UF Anthropology launched the terminal Master of Arts in Anthropology in 2023 to serve the growing demand for professionals in public archaeology, specifically in Cultural Resource Management (CRM). Accompanying this new degree option is a Certificate in Public Archaeology to distinguish it from other specialties in applied anthropology. Additional graduate certificates are under development (e.g., biocultural heritage, primatology) but for now UF Anthropology is fully equipped to serve students seeking careers in public archaeology. For those students, the new terminal Master of Science in Archaeology supersedes the existing MA-with-certificate option.
What is the Terminal Master of Science in Archaeology?
A Master of Science (MS) in Archaeology is a specialized degree designed to prepare students for careers in public archaeology. Beyond the many opportunities in CRM, public archaeology entails careers in government, museums, nonprofit organizations, and more. Students pursuing an MS in Archaeology are expected to take primarily courses in archaeology, although they may earn credits in other anthropology courses or cognate courses (e.g., geology). There are no required courses for the MS in Archaeology but students are encouraged to apply for the Certificate in Public Archaeology (https://anthro.ufl.edu/graduate-certificates/) if they intend to pursue careers in public archaeology, particularly in CRM.
Can I get a PhD after receiving a Terminal MA or MS degree?
Recipients of the MA or MS degree seeking a PhD degree in Anthropology may apply for that degree at UF or elsewhere, fulfilling all application requirements and deadlines. MS in Archaeology students may first be required to complete an MA in Anthropology before undertaking doctoral studies.