Anthropology examines the complexity and diversity of human experience, past and present, through evolutionary, archaeological, social, cultural, and linguistic perspectives. As such, Anthropology is a truly interdisciplinary venture that spans the natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities. This broad mandate has led to the division of the discipline into three broad areas of research: Archaeology, Evolutionary Anthropology, and the study of Society, Culture and Language.
Archaeologists study the material remains of the human past. Archaeological methods range widely, from the study of artifacts to the analysis of plant and animal remains, and Archaeological research covers a vast expanse of time from the earliest stone tools to the complex record let by modern industrial society. Archaeologists also grapple with a range of theoretical issues including material culture, culture change, identity, and ritual. Many archaeologists today also work in collaboration with local communities and engage with the questions of archaeological ethics.
A training in anthropology prepares students to think clearly and critically, to engage with a wide range of perspectives, experiences, and world views, and to reach ethically sound decisions. Programs available within the Department of Anthropology provide excellent preparation for careers in business, or public service and the non-profit sector, especially in areas where international and human diversity issues are important. Courses in anthropology provide a unique grounding and can be fruitfully combined with courses in a wide variety of other disciplines in the sciences, social sciences, and humanities.