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The anthropology program is part of the Social Sciences, Policy, and Culture Department. Anthropology’s diverse subject matter of “human beings in all times and places” reflects the discipline’s interest in human culture dating from the Paleolithic past to contemporary times; from exotic, distant societies to the myriad subcultures of the Western world; from the biological bases of human behavior to our most elaborate cultural creations; and in the interaction of diverse peoples from colonial to modern contexts. Grounded in the practical realities of daily life and direct ethnographic research, anthropological methods are applicable cross-culturally. Perhaps anthropology’s greatest strength, however, is the perspective it promotes: an understanding and appreciation of cultural diversity, human universals, and the dynamic potential of human culture.

Cultural anthropology equips students for living and working in all human societies. Anthropological skills, knowledge, and perspectives can make people more effective advocates, mediators, and translators in contexts that involve different cultural philosophies and organizational diversity. In our global world, training in cultural anthropology provides an effective basis for careers in human service, education, public health, international and community development, public administration, business, and many others.

Archaeology examines material remains to understand and explain past and present human behavior. Archaeologists excavate and analyze the tools, textiles, pottery, and other artifacts of prehistoric peoples to reconstruct ancient cultures. They also investigate the cultural interaction between Western and nonwestern societies. A major branch of contemporary archaeology deals with preserving knowledge of our country’s past through cultural resource management and historic preservation.

Coursework and curriculum in the anthropology program emphasize practical application of skills to a variety of issues. Students are encouraged to seek internships and practica placements that match their specific interests to fully develop their anthropological skills and to gain experience that will further their career goals. The program’s close and supportive relationship with local groups and organizations provides a basis for meaningful student involvement in problem solving. Practical experiences culminate in a senior capstone designed and carried out under faculty supervision.

Pursuing an Anthropology Major, Minor, or Certificate

Students are encouraged to indicate their interest in an anthropology major, minor, or certificate at the first possible opportunity. Advisors are assigned to best support students’ individual interests and career goals. Regular meetings with the advisor will ensure that degree requirements are met efficiently and full use is made of program opportunities.

Certificate in Applied Cultural Anthropology

The Applied Cultural Anthropology Certificate program prepares students for careers in fields in which cross-cultural or global perspectives are emphasized. Students learn how to examine culturally related problems and policies, prepare research designs, and collect and analyze data. To qualify for the certificate, students must also meet the requirements for a bachelor’s degree (not necessarily in anthropology) at SOU. For certificate details, see the Applied Cultural Anthropology Certificate .

Certificate in Cultural Resource Management

The Cultural Resource Management Certificate program prepares students for careers in the management and preservation of prehistoric and historic cultural sites located on public and private lands. Emphasis is on methods and the development and implementation of research designs. To qualify for the certificate, students must also meet the requirements of a bachelor’s degree (not necessarily in anthropology) at SOU. For certificate details, see the Cultural Resource Management Certificate .

Program Requirements

Programs

Major

• •  Anthropology, BA or BS

Minor

• •  Anthropology Minor

Certificate

• •  Applied Cultural Anthropology Certificate
• •  Cultural Resource Management Certificate