Anthropology Department Course Offerings
An introduction to the study of human biological and cultural evolution using the methods and theories of biological anthropology and archaeology. The course surveys some basic principles of evolutionary theory, primatology, the hominid fossil record, origins of modern humans, their physical variation, and archaeological evidence for the evolution of symbolic behavior, agriculture, and civilization. Offered every semester.
ANTH 12/Ancient Societies (4)
An introduction to the archaeological reconstruction of human prehistory beginning with the appearance of modern humans and culminating with the development of complex societies. The course focuses on major transitions in human prehistory: Upper Paleolithic developments in art and technology, the transition to agricultural societies, and the rise of stratified societies and urbanized cultures. Prerequisite: ANTH 3. Offered spring semester.
This course focuses on the development and character of indigenous cultures of Latin America before the arrival of Europeans. Themes of power, economy, religion, ritual, and symbolism that uniquely characterize Latin American native societies are examined primarily through art, architecture and material culture. The course follows a topical and comparative approach drawing on data from archaeology, art history, ethnography and ethnohistory Prerequisite: ANTH 3 or 4 or permission of instructor. Offered spring semester in even-numbered years.
An intensive archaeological study of a selected region, focusing on surveys, specific sites, and ethnohistoric and experimental evidence to derive sequences of human occupation, use, and principles of culture change. May be repeated for credit as topic changes. Prerequisite: ANTH 3 or 4. Offering to be determined.
A survey of the arts and cultures of Africa and Afro-American peoples. Focuses on the interrelationships of artistic expression and other aspects of culture. Prerequisite: ANTH 4 or permission of instructor. Offered spring semester in even-numbered years. Same as: ARTHST 51.
A study of human skeletal biology and bioarcheology. The purpose of the course is to familiarize students with the bones and anatomical landmarks of the human skeleton and how stress, disease, injury, and lifestyle affect them. The course includes some instruction in paleopathology and forensic anthropology, with laboratory exercises providing direct examination of skeletal material. Prerequisite: ANTH 3 or permission of instructor. Offered fall semester.
This summer field course introduces students to archaeological field methods, including survey, excavation, and artifact recovery and processing. Instruction is through participation in an ongoing research project. Location of the field research site varies annually. Recent offerings include Ecuador and New Jersey. Prerequisite: ANTH 101. Offered annually in summer.