BA Anthropology

Anthropology is the study of human cultural, social, and biological diversity from the distant past to the present day and around the world. The undergraduate major in Anthropology introduces students to key topics and approaches in three broad areas, also known as subfields: (1) the evolution of human and nonhuman primates, including the evolutionary biology of living people; (2) the archaeological study of human societies and cultures; (3) social, cultural, and linguistic dimensions of human life. In addition to gaining a broad understanding of these complementary areas of Anthropology, majors develop advanced skills in one or more subfields and may elect to pursue a formal concentration in archaeological, biological, or sociocultural anthropology, or in medical anthropology and global health (see Concentrations). Whatever their path through the major, students learn ways of understanding and engaging with humanity that emerge from the sciences, social sciences, and humanities, and they often complete synergistic coursework in other departments and programs. All students write a senior essay, often based on independent research, and many go on to careers that incorporate anthropological perspectives.