Anthropology

About the anthropology major

Anthropology is the study of human behavior. This major encourages you to explore the origin and behavior of humans and their physical, social, and cultural development. Anthropologists study the way of life, remains, language, and physical characteristics of people around the world. They compare customs, values, and social patterns of different cultures, past and present. Archaeologists reconstruct a record of extinct cultures, especially preliterate ones, to determine age and cultural identity by classifying and interpreting artifacts, architectural features, and types of structures recovered by excavation (IU School of Liberal Arts, 2017).

Quick facts

Sample coursework

  • Bioanthropology
  • Cultural anthropology
  • Development of anthropological thought
  • Evolution and prehistory
  • Fieldwork in archaeology
  • Human origins and prehistory
  • Survey of applied anthropology

Possible careers

  • Communications specialist
  • Curator
  • Nonprofit management
  • Professor*
  • Research specialist
  • Urban planner*

*These careers require additional training or education.

Where could I work?

  • Community or social services
  • Education
  • Eiteljorg Museum
  • Indiana State Museum
  • Nonprofits
  • Public health
  • State of Indiana

Arts, Humanities, and Human Services Cluster

This major is part of the Arts, Humanities, and Human Services (AHHS) cluster. The AHHS cluster is the academic home of University College students pursuing majors in art and design, education, general studies, journalism, liberal arts, and social work. The AHHS cluster partners with students on their academic advising and career plans to guide them into their degree-granting schools. 

Learn about the AHHS cluster

Learn about other clusters

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