Anthropology is the study of human culture. In order to properly understand any culture one must have a firm understanding of the pre-historical and historical development of that culture. Cultures are shaped by the physical environment in which they reside so a primary focus of cultural development includes an understanding of physical processes and their effects on the human condition. In this respect, Anthropology is a broad social science discipline which links physical and human perspectives. Such topics as human genetics, the origin and evolution of the human species, the rise and fall of civilizations, the development of languages, the development and spread of religions, and the diversity of cultures are all topics addressed within the discipline of Anthropology. The degree program provides a background in biological anthropology, linguistics, archaeology, and cultural anthropology suitable for direct employment or graduate school.
Anthropology graduates find employment in many areas such as museums, aid agencies, local and regional businesses, government, forensics, and education. The program also offers opportunities in local, regional, and international field and laboratory research. The archaeological field school provides hands-on experience relative to excavation and archiving. The Anthropology, Geography, and Earth Science (AGES) Department offers both a bachelors degree program in addition to a minor.
