Anthropology asks the question: What does it mean to be human? We answer this fundamental query with a global perspective on the human condition as students explore both the similarity and diversity of human experience. Through courses that cover a wide range of societies throughout the world, we investigate the human condition, past and present. Introductory courses provide an overview of the fields of anthropology: social and cultural anthropology, archeology, physical anthropology and linguistics. More advanced courses provide the opportunity for students to pursue intensive study of particular topics in cross-cultural perspective. The department emphasizes critical thinking and writing skills and encourages close faculty/student contact in seminar courses and at the upper level. Students, in consultation with their academic adviser, have the opportunity to take courses in other departments that complement specific foci in anthropology.
At this time of increasing globalization, anthropology provides students with a broad overview of diverse peoples and cultures. Majors are therefore well prepared to live in a rapidly changing world. The major both prepares students for graduate-level studies and serves as a foundation for a wide range of careers. With backgrounds in anthropology, our students become teachers, social workers, public policy experts, forensic investigators, health practitioners, primatologists, international business executives, and community and economic development specialists, as well as pursuing various other careers.
To declare a major in anthropology, students must have completed at least one introductory level anthropology course at the 400 or 500 level with a grade of C or better.