Anthropology
Anthropology is a broad discipline which includes physical anthropology the study of humans as biological animals; cultural anthropology the study of humankind in a cultural perspective; archaeology the recovery and interpretation of ancient human biological and cultural remains; and linguistics the study of language in culture and society.
The UNCG Department of Anthropology strives for excellence in research, teaching, and service. We are firmly committed to the pursuit of anthropological knowledge while engaging our students in a productive, humanistic, and applicable exploration of human experience. We seek to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to accomplish their personal goals whether they seek advanced, graduate study or the practical application of anthropological knowledge in the workplace.
Through their teaching and research, the faculty is committed to:
- Fostering the critical learning skills necessary for students to integrate theory with practical application.
- Incorporating students into new and ongoing research efforts as a way of nurturing creative problem-solving skills through hands-on experience.
- Promoting active and responsible community engagement on both local and international levels through participation in ongoing research projects.
- Engendering a clearer understanding of foundational anthropological themes such as the value of human diversity, cultural tolerance, understanding and respect.
- Developing and implementing new and realistic solutions to health, economic and political problems, through direct interaction with local and international agencies and communities.
The Program
The general undergraduate major provides for extensive study in cultural anthropology, archaeology, linguistics, and physical anthropology. Majors who develop a particular interest in one of the subdisciplines may pursue a concentration in that area up to a maximum of 60 hours. Majors have opportunities to develop mentoring relationships with members of the faculty on current research projects as well as fieldwork projects. Internships in various agencies are also available. Anthropology as a major prepares individuals to pursue many avenues of career development. It is the basis for a career as a professional anthropologist. Combined with other courses of study as double majors, anthropology enhances career possibilities and professional development. For example, there are increasing opportunities for anthropologists to work in government agencies and business. In such settings, the knowledge which they have may be applied to the solution of human problems. Through the accelerated master's program, an anthropology major may earn both a master's degree in a related field and a bachelor's degree in anthropology in approximately five years. Majors must begin planning early in this program as well as obtaining careful advising. Opportunities exist for an MA in Economics and a Masters of Business Administration.