Anthropology (ANTH_BA)
The ANTH major focuses on the biological and cultural variations of human populations through archaeology, biological anthropology, and cultural anthropology. In addition to class work, students can receive practical training in laboratory and field work. Students interested in pursuing careers in academic anthropology or museum work find that our BA program is an excellent primer in current anthropological theory and methodology, and thus valuable preparation for graduate training in anthropology.
Anthropological Science B.S. (ANTHS_BS)
The Bachelor of Science degree in Anthropological Science provides the opportunity to develop a strong foundation in anthropological theory, research methods, quantification, and laboratory science. It prepares students with the skills and competencies needed to pursue graduate study or careers in professions associated with archaeology, biological anthropology, cultural anthropology, ecological anthropology and related fields. Students contemplating futures in anthropological research, biomedical, forensic, or archaeological sciences should consider this degree.
Concurrent Majors
The Anthropology majors are flexible programs that can be combined as concurrent majors with many other fields of study. Concurrent majors can be an attractive option for students, especially in today’s multicultural workplace. Anthropology students learn many skills such as communication and writing skills, observational skills, experimental design, interviewing experiences, statistical methods, and cross-cultural awareness. The concurrent major program is for students who want to combine two or more majors. Students must satisfy the basic requirements for the colleges and majors involved. Interested students should contact the Liberal Arts Academic Student Services Center in 101 Sparks Building.
Undergraduate Advising
All majors are assigned an adviser in the department. This includes students having more than one major. All majors are encouraged to take full advantage of their academic adviser, whose duties include assisting majors with course selection, career planning, and the bureaucratic complexities of a large institution.
Questions regarding the Undergraduate Anthropology Program can be directed to our Academic advisor: Katelyn Perry, krp5@psu.edu
Undergraduate Research
The Department of Anthropology encourages undergraduates to participate in research in the fields of archaeology, biological anthropology, and cultural anthropology. Students can either volunteer to work on projects or receive course credit for their participation. This is an excellent way for students to gain “hands-on” experience in anthropological research and to apply concepts learned in the classroom.
Students can find labs looking for research assistants here or contact individual faculty members for opportunities to participate in ongoing research. Projects are worked out between students and faculty members. Students receiving course credit typically enroll in ANTH 494.
Students interested in pursuing careers in academic anthropology or museum work find that our BA program is an excellent primer in current anthropological theory and methodology, and thus valuable preparation for graduate training in anthropology.