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Anthropology

Anthropology allows students to reach out and touch history. Through exploration of ruins and the analysis of artifacts, the past comes to life. You will examine the origins, evolution, biological characteristics, material culture, social dimensions and dynamics of humankind. Learn the origins of societies and understand how humans have interacted with themselves and nature for centuries, shaping how we live today.

Delve deeply into the study of humans both past and present as an anthropology major. Anthropology, a field of inquiry considered the most humanistic of the social sciences and the most scientific of the humanities, is a deeply comparative and participatory discipline that prepares students for meaningful life and work in our diverse and interconnected world. The curriculum fosters an awareness of the structure and diversity of human societies, past and present, and offers a broad range of perspectives on the experiences and meanings of being human. You will be exposed to the methods of inquiry and to the special knowledge and insights of anthropology. 

How will I focus my studies?

Anthropology courses in the department teach students how to apply anthropological principles to a wide range of social questions and problems, and you will select from a list of courses to choose your own focus. You can choose to study ancient societies or spend time in the field, examining evidence of those who lived long ago. You will find answers to questions about specific cultures and study how the environment has been affected by humans.

Richie Rosencrance, Dailey, W.Va.

Majors: Anthropology and History 

RichieMay 2015 graduate Richie Rosencrance took the childhood advice he received from his dad to heart: “Son, don’t wake up every day and hate going to work.” After taking his first anthropology course from Dr. Amy Hirshman, he knew he wanted to be an archaeologist. Since graduation, Richie has worked as a field technician all over the United States: in New England working for a large civil engineering firm, in Vero Beach, FL excavating the remains of a mastodon or mammoth (with a  paintbrush!) and currently conducting an archaeological survey at elevations over 7,000 feet in the Humbolt-Toiyabe National Forest near Reno, NV. Eventually, he hopes to become a professor and teach in a field school, “showing students the wonder of the past (and how to dig properly, of course).” 

Learn more at the Anthropology site