Anthropology B.A.

Anthropology is the study of humankind in all its forms, past and present, using a holistic and global perspective. It comprises four primary subfields: archaeology, biological anthropology, linguistic anthropology, and sociocultural anthropology, all of which are uniquely linked by the concept of culture.

Anthropology combines a set of theories and methods that foster an understanding of human biological and cultural variability. It allows students to learn about the scientific, social, political, and historical perspectives on human variation and human evolution. It challenges them to examine their own beliefs, and come to their own conclusions, about the implications in today's world of biological and cultural variation, including how false narratives are used to oppress certain groups. Fundamentally, anthropology tackles questions at the heart of societal tensions: how does identity relate to the biological and cultural factors that have shaped humans as a species and that continue to shape populations and individuals? Most importantly, anthropology as a reflexive discipline also examines its own legacy. Many of our classes examine the impact of colonialism, racism, and other actions and ideologies that serve to justify and perpetuate inequality.

The B.A. degree encourages students to study the biological, social, and cultural facets of humans and societies across the globe to achieve a sophisticated understanding of both the cultural diversity and the biological unity of our species. It fosters the growth of unique observational and critical thinking skills, emphasizing the primary role that culture plays in identity, relationships, and decision-making. Students pursuing this degree are expected to take 24 credits in a foreign language or to show foreign language competency. This CLA requirement aligns with anthropology’s focus on appreciating cultural variability through engagement with cultures other than our own.

Students planning a professional career in anthropology generally specialize in one of its four sub-fields. While a career in academia can provide exciting research and teaching opportunities, the anthropology B.A. is useful in many other fields, including business and environmental consulting, state and local government, and the non-profit sector. The attractiveness of the anthropology degree to employers reflects the outstanding research and writing skills that students acquire in this major, their deep knowledge of the role of culture in society, and the unique observational and critical thinking skills they possess.

A B.A. in Anthropology also provides excellent preparation for professional schools in medicine, public health, nursing, and law. This degree offers a holistic education that, regardless of the job attained after graduation, provides a perspective on humanity that inspires a lifetime of engagement with the issues of importance to our globalized society.