Anthropology Program
The Anthropology program at Â鶹´«Ã½ offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to understanding the human condition, past and present. Through the integration of historical, cultural, and biological perspectives, Â鶹´«Ã½s gain valuable insights into human diversity, adaptation, and social change.
Why Study Anthropology?
Anthropology at WMU provides Â鶹´«Ã½s with the tools to critically examine cultural and biological change, social inequality, and human diversity. Through engaging coursework, field experiences, and hands-on research Â鶹´«Ã½, Â鶹´«Ã½s will:
- Broaden their appreciation of human diversity and its historical and contemporary context.
- Develop skills in critical analysis, oral and written communication, and research methodologies.
- Prepare for careers or graduate studies in fields such as archaeology, cultural anthropology, biological anthropology, public policy, education, health sciences, and more.
Program Highlights
The Anthropology program fosters an academic environment of liberal thinking and interdisciplinary collaboration. Students benefit from:
- World-class faculty who bring expertise in archaeology, biological anthropology, and cultural anthropology.
- Field experiences that provide hands-on learning Â鶹´«Ã½ locally and globally.
- Courses and research Â鶹´«Ã½ that explore critical topics such as social inequality, cultural diversity, and human evolution.
Areas of Study
Archaeology
Archaeology at WMU focuses on the material and symbolic dimensions of human history, from prehistoric times to the modern world. Students explore topics such as:
- Ethnohistory and historical archaeology.
- Social archaeology, including class, gender, and ethnicity dynamics.
- Public archaeology and heritage tourism, including the Fort St. Joseph Archaeological Project.
Biological Anthropology
Biological anthropology examines the biological and cultural evolution of humans and other primates. Areas of focus include:
- Anthropological genetics, primatology, and paleoanthropology.
- Skeletal biology and bioarchaeology, with applications in health, diet, and human behavior.
- Comparative anatomy and human variation.
Cultural Anthropology
Cultural anthropology investigates human beliefs, behaviors, and material culture. Research topics include:
- Medical anthropology, environmental anthropology, and food and culture.
- Social stratification, globalization, and marginalized communities.
- Geographic research areas, including East Africa, Latin America, and Asia.
Field Experience
Field experiences are integral to the Anthropology program, providing Â鶹´«Ã½s with hands-on learning Â鶹´«Ã½.
- Archaeological Field Schools: Engage in excavations at sites like Fort St. Joseph in Niles, Michigan.
- Cultural Anthropology Fieldwork: Work on individualized research projects in collaboration with faculty.
- Biological Anthropology Research: Participate in projects on skeletal biology, primate behavior, and more.
Students also have access to funding Â鶹´«Ã½ for independent research projects through the College of Arts and Sciences.
