Anthropology (BS)

Anthropology is the study of the origins and diversity of human biology and culture. Anthropologists study the evolution and adaptations of the human species through the four major subdivisions of the discipline: archaeology, biological anthropology, linguistic anthropology, and cultural anthropology. The major provides training in all areas of anthropology for the liberal arts major with an interest in global awareness, cultural diversity, human evolution and adaptation, prehistory, and an understanding of human behavior. Application of the discipline in real-world scenarios is stressed.

Current Catalog Year

2024-2025

Degree

Bachelor of Science

Major / Total Credits

39 / 120

Locations

Mankato

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Program Requirements
Degree Plan

Program Requirements

Prerequisites to the Major

ANTH 101 Introduction to Anthropology 4 credits

This course surveys human biological and cultural diversity through time and space. You will learn about questions like: how did humans evolve? and how do anthropologists collect and interpret information about human beings and their ancestors?

Prerequisites: none

Goal Areas: GE-05, GE-08

Diverse Cultures: Purple

Major Common Core

ANTH 210 Introduction to Archaeology 4 credits

A comprehensive examination of modern archaeological theory methods and activities, focusing on American archaeology. Emphasis will be given to data collection, data analysis, and museology. Lab included.

Prerequisites: none

Goal Areas: GE-03, GE-10

ANTH 220 Human Origins 4 credits

An introduction to the study of human biological evolution and variation. This course focuses on evolutionary theory, mechanisms of evolutionary change, and the fossil record of human evolution. Lab included.

Prerequisites: none

Goal Areas: GE-03

ANTH 230 Peoples and Cultures of the World 4 credits

This introduction to cultural anthropology covers cultural diversity and organization by examining several examples in detail. Both anthropological methodology and theory will be important parts of this course.

Prerequisites: none

Goal Areas: GE-08

Diverse Cultures: Purple

ANTH 240 Language and Culture 4 credits

Language provides not only communication but identification of oneself and one's group. Humans are extremely sensitive to language, dialect, jargon, and slang. An understanding of language and its relationship to culture is basic to any understanding of human beings.

Prerequisites: none

Goal Areas: GE-05, GE-08

Diverse Cultures: Purple

ANTH 300 Introduction to Anthropology Methods 4 credits

This course examines the methodologies of all four fields of Anthropology. Students will gain practical experience in various methods that professionals utilize on a regular basis within the discipline. Discussions of the issues surrounding various anthropological methods will be part of this course.

Prerequisites: ANTH 101

ANTH 438W Anthropological Theory 4 credits

Examination of the intellectual history of anthropology from its nineteenth century roots to today's current theoretical trends. Students will learn about the major schools of thought in anthropological theory and practice critical examination of their applications.

Prerequisites: none

ANTH 475 Senior Thesis 3 credits

A faculty-supervised, student-designed capstone project for the major. Students will take ANTH 475 after completing ANTH 300. The nature of the student's thesis will be determined jointly by the student and their advisor. The capstone project is a written thesis involving writing, laboratory work, fieldwork or various combinations. Students must present completed thesis in a public forum.

Prerequisites: ANTH 300