Anthropology & Cultural Sustainability Program

The Study of Anthropology

Anthropology represents a comparative and holistic study of cultures and societies past and present. Our goal is to sharpen critical and analytical thinking about cultural differences and similarities through in-depth cultural histories and ethnographic studies of particular cultures, and then through a comparative approach, explore underlying socio-cultural processes in the past as well as those within current regional and global settings. We also explore culturally sensitive applications of anthropological understanding to indigeneity, social inequalities, cultural sustainability, and transcultural relations. By studying these processes in a variety of cultural and historical contexts, we gain not only an understanding of “others,” but discover an “otherness” in ourselves.

A Major in Anthropology and Cultural Sustainability

In the anthropology and cultural sustainability major students will obtain a critical understanding of the historical, social, and cultural theories and methods that have informed anthropological inquiry and practice, then proceed to develop skills in museum studies, language documentation and revitalization, intangible culture conservation, documentary film, and applied and development anthropology.

Careers in Anthropology and Cultural Sustainability

A major in anthropology and cultural sustainability prepares students for jobs in advocacy, public service, business, teaching, and research. Anthropologists work in diverse places such as international agencies (United Nations, World Bank), corporations (Intel, GM), museums (Smithsonian), government departments (Ministry of Culture, Tourism), advocacy organizations (Cultural Survival, Amnesty International), and schools (language revitalization). The knowledge and skills of anthropologists are highly valued and marketable in an increasingly globalized world.

Students may also pursue anthropology as rigorous training in preparation for professional graduate studies, such as law, museum studies, library science, conflict resolution, public administration, and international development, as well as graduate academic programs in anthropology and related disciplines.