Overview

Anthropology is the study of human beings and human behavior at all times and places. It is interconnected with other fields that study parts of human behavior, such as archeology, history, linguistics, and sociology. In contrast, anthropology takes a more holistic and inclusive perspective. It studies and compares all types of cultures and uses all means available to come closer to the lived experience of the people who compose those cultures. Its aim is to interpret and understand the parallels and contrasts between societies of all kinds, and to find out how the members of these societies see themselves and their roles.

The major subfields of anthropology are cultural anthropology, archeology, anthropological linguistics, and biological anthropology. Cultural anthropology studies the development and functions of cultures. Archeology studies the objects and artifacts left behind by past societies. Anthropological linguistics studies the role of language in society and culture. Biological anthropology studies human behavior from an evolutionary perspective. All involve both field work and theory.

Course Details

Duration: Three to four years (full-time study); six to eight years (part-time study)

Difficulty: Advanced

Entry Requirements: Undergraduate degree or equivalent general education

Course Description

Core Curriculum

The core topics introduce the field of anthropology and give students the skills and understanding to choose and pursue their interests in the specialized topics. The Director of Studies will make adaptations based on student ability and schedule. On completing the core, students will be able to independently read the historical and academic literature. The core topics are:

History of Anthropology
Introduction to Cultural Anthropology
Introduction to Linguistic Anthropology
Introduction to Archeology
Introduction to Biological Anthropology
Research Methods
Human Evolution
Field Work*

* Field work must be decided in partnership with a Director of Studies and may come with an additional fee.

Specializations

Specializations should be discussed with the Director of Studies. On completing specializations, students will be able to independently read advanced literature and conduct a final project in that topic. Some suggested specializations are:

Cultural Anthropology
Introduction to Evolutionary Biology
Linguistics
History of Art
Anthropology of Governance and Environment
Culture and Human Behavior
Culture and Health

Final Project

The final project in anthropology consists in one or more papers written on an area of specialization. The paper should take the form of a report on field work conducted by the student, or a dissertation elaborating an original argument, interpretation, or perspective on a field work report, method, or theory. All final projects should be discussed with the Director of Studies, who will assist in choosing an appropriate focus and method. Advanced students may be advised to submit their paper for publication in an appropriate academic journal.

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