Undergraduate Program Overview

The Department of Anthropology offers a BA in Anthropology and an Anthropology Minor. Our undergraduates study humans using an interdisciplinary four-field approach which includes archaeology, biological anthropology, linguistic anthropology, and cultural anthropology. Our faculty teach a diverse curriculum that centers skill-building, hands-on learning, and real-world application of anthropological ideas, exploring human nature both in the past and present. The BA prepares students to step into a variety of career paths in industry, government, corporate sectors, healthcare, non-profits, and academia. 

Anthropology is composed of four subfields: Archaeology, Biological Anthropology, Cultural Anthropology, and Linguistic Anthropology. Students who major in Anthropology can curate their coursework to be broadly proficient in all four or choose to specialize in one or two subfields.

Archaeology is the study of human societies and cultural change by recovering remains of cultural artifacts, architecture, and landscapes. Students learn a number of technical skills through the study of archaeology such as GIS mapping, spatial analysis, surveying, and excavation. Students also learn to engage lawfully and ethically with interested and impacted communities.

Biological anthropology focuses on the study of humans as a species and our place in nature. Students learn how to explain human biological variation using genetics, physiology, anatomy, paleontology, and osteology, while also considering the sociocultural context that shape and inform interpretations of that variation. Students develop strong skills in basic science research, forensics, quantitative data analysis, and science communication.

Cultural anthropology is the study of the worlds’ cultures with a focus on how people create meaning, organize their society and lives, and navigate social relationships. Students learn how to investigate this systematically through ethnographic research (e.g., interviews, participant observation). Students gain strong skills in cultural analysis and culturally-informed communication.

Linguistic anthropology is the study of language and how it is used in order to understand culture. Students explore topics like how many languages there are, how those languages are distributed across the world, and their contemporary and historical relationships. Using everything from everyday conversations, digital communication, or political language, students learn how to investigate language variation, why variations exist, how variations are used, and what they mean when they are used in various contexts. Students develop skills in communication analysis, intercultural communication, and qualitative research. Linguistic anthropology provides essential information for program development, policy formation, and practical solutions to everyday language and cultural issues. 

In the Department of Anthropology at ºÚÁÏÍø, we help students understand the many pathways anthropology can lead to by helping tailor their coursework and experiences around their unique interests to encourage them to engage deeply with issues that inspire them. Our program provides the training for analytical tools, field experience, and critical perspectives necessary to make meaningful impact. 

If you want to explore how Anthropology can serve your career goals and/or interests as a major or minor, please contact the Anthropology Academic Advisor.

 

Undergraduate Program Learning Objectives

Knowledge 

  1. Demonstrate knowledge of the history of anthropological theories and their current application across the sub-disciplines: Archaeology, Biological Anthropology, Cultural Anthropology and Linguistic Anthropology.
  2. Comprehend the origins and significance of human biological, linguistic and cultural diversity in contemporary and past societies.

Skills 

  1. Apply anthropological concepts, ethics, and methods to the description and analysis of both qualitative and quantitative data.
  2. Apply anthropological theories and methods to solve problems in the workplace and in our communities.
  3. Demonstrate advanced analytical skills by formulating anthropological questions, identifying bias, constructing original arguments, and evaluating diverse forms of data.

Values and Practices 

  1. Affirm and sustain the cultural, biological, linguistic, and environmental diversity in local communities and global contexts.
  2. Demonstrate the discipline’s commitment to respecting and affirming human dignitiy and equal rights of all peoples.