The minor in Biological and Medical Anthropology will provide students with a comprehensive overview of the anthropological study of human health and the biological and behavioral variation in the human lineage. It emphasizes anthropology's unique biocultural perspective by focusing on adaptation, variation, and a holistic understanding of global health, disease, and well-being. Students will learn foundational theory and research methods used to examine human-environmental interactions. Courses will also introduce students to cutting-edge theory and methods used to understand diet, health, and disease risk in anthropology. The Biological and Medical Anthropology minor is especially relevant for those planning careers in the health and medical professions.
Student learning outcomes for this program are as follows: 1. Develop an awareness of the relevance of anthropological perspectives to research in environmental, life, and health sciences; 2. Cultivate an awareness of connections between biology, society, and culture with respect to health and disease. 3. Effectively read and synthesize scholarly literature in order to develop scientific literacy, 4. Develop communication skills consistent with student's academic or professional goals, and 5. Provide students a pathway to study medical and biological anthropology as part of their academic careers.