Anthropology/Social Studies

Department of Anthropology, College of Humanities and Social Sciences.

Anthropology explores what it means to be human and encompass the scientific study of diversity as well as similarities of all cultures of the world, past as well as present. Its scope includes human physical development, adaptation to vastly different environments, and creative expressions of meaning and belonging. The cross-cultural approach of Anthropology provides an inclusive and holistic framework for understanding all facets of humanity.

The Anthropology Department provides training in four sub-disciplines: Cultural Anthropology, Archaeology, Physical Anthropology and Anthropological Linguistics. Using ethnographic, comparative and ethnohistorical methods and working in partnerships with communities and peoples worldwide, anthropologists contribute in multiple ways to addressing contemporary human problems and highlighting evidence that points to both past and potential solutions.

Do you find human diversity and various cultures fascinating? Do you appreciate the benefits of examining topics from multiple perspectives and value a holistic approach to learning? Do you prefer a holistic style of learning? Do you want to know why as well as how? Are you fascinated by human diversity? Are you enthusiastic and open-minded? If you are also excited about transmitting that enthusiasm and understanding to others, a major in Anthropology/Social Studies may be for you. Students earning a degree in Anthropology/Social Studies will be able to apply their knowledge and experience to a variety of careers locally and globally, particularly in settings for learning and teaching such as schools and learning across the life span.

To receive a recommendation for state of Washington certification, students must complete the teacher certification program, including the content methods course SEC 426, offered by the Department of Secondary Education, as a part of the undergraduate Bachelor of Arts degree, or as a post-baccalaureate program, or as a part of the Master’s in Teaching degree. See the Secondary Education section of this catalog for program admission, completion, and teacher certification requirements. Completion of this combined major leads to an endorsement in social studies.