Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Anthropology - Biological Anthropology

The focus of biological anthropology is the study of human biology from an evolutionary perspective. Biological anthropology is interested in understanding how and why the human species became what it is today. Thus, it involves the study of human evolution, human biology and its variation, human ecology (how humans interrelate with their environment) and primate behavior and biology (to place humans in the proper comparative context). Biological anthropologists also recognize that human culture, and learned behavior in general, are fundamentally important to understanding the human condition which leads them to emphasize a bio-cultural approach in which both biology and culture are integrated into a holistic understanding of humanity. Students work closely with biological anthropology faculty to choose electives from both within and outside of the department to refine their own research and scholarly interests. Upper-level electives in biology, psychology and/or geographic sciences are recommended depending on the student’s particular goals. Students might consider taking a minor or second major in these disciplines. Students are strongly encouraged to gain practical experience in biological anthropology through study abroad, internships or independent study with faculty. Career Opportunities and Marketable Skills: An undergraduate degree in Anthropology provides a solid foundation for a wide range of rewarding careers. Students with a B.A. or B.S. degree in anthropology have gone on to become: Graduate students in archaeology, cultural anthropology, biological anthropology, linguistics and area studies programs. Professors of anthropology in each of the sub-disciplines Professional students in law, medicine, education, international affairs, public policy and public health Americorps and Peace Corps volunteers Archivists Business executives City planners and government officials College librarians Field archaeologists Cultural affairs directors Historical preservationists Museum and zoo curators and staff International aid workers and development consultants Management trainees Nurses, medical technicians and physicians assistants Forensic analysts Coroners Technical writers Conservation scientists and practitioners The anthropology major is a liberal arts program that stresses such marketable skills as: Data analysis Computer skills Critical thinking Global knowledge Research skills Rigorous writing and presentation skills.