Introduction
Anthropology explores what it means to be human. Anthropology is the scientific study of humankind in all the cultures of the world, past and present. This study includes humankind’s physical development and creation of diverse lifestyles. The cross-cultural approach of Anthropology provides a framework for understanding all the diverse facets of what it means to be human.
The Anthropology Department provides training in four sub-disciplines: Cultural Anthropology, Archaeology, Physical Anthropology and Anthropological Linguistics. Using ethnographic, ethnological and ethnohistorical tools and information supplied by the four sub disciplines, the Anthropologist studies cultures and the processes of human development comparatively.
Why Consider an Anthropology Major?
Do you find human diversity and various cultures fascinating? Do you like to approach subjects from multiple perspectives? 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, intelligent, and open-minded? If so, you may wish to consider a major in Anthropology. Students earning a degree in Anthropology will be able to apply their learning to a variety of jobs locally and internationally in the global economy of today’s world.
Student Resources
Department Website: Anthropology
Contact information: Department Manager, Mariah Perez, Arntzen Hall 315, 360-650-2229, perezm21@wwu.edu
Department advising: See the program’s advising webpage for more information
Degree Works: Current students should also log on to Degree Works to check student-specific program progress.
Career Services Center: Connect major to a career
Sample Careers: Anthropologist, International Studies, Law Enforcement, Ethnologist, Diplomacy, Museum Curator, Overseas Consultant, Linguist | Education, Researcher, Translator, Archaeologist, International Business, Politics, Governmental Advisor, Cultural Diversity Programs, Human Resources, Social Services, Archaeologist, Cultural Anthropologist, Anthropological Linguist, Forensic Anthropologist, Applied Health, Medical fields, Teaching, Nursing, Nutritionist, Public Health, Infectious Diseases, International Nutrition, Biomedical research, Biomechanics, Medical Genetics Research, Kinesiology and Human Biology, Healthcare Fields, Forensic science, Museums (collections, education, and research), Science Journalism, Science Communication, Zoos (collections and captive breeding), Forensic Anthropologist, Biocultural Anthropologist
How to Declare (Admission and Declaration Process):
To declare, a student must have completed the following requirements:
- ANTH 201 and ANTH 301 and either ANTH 210 or ANTH 215 or ANTH 247 (ANTH 247 may be substituted with LING 201, LING 204, or HNRS 217).
Contact the Department of Anthropology at 360-650-3620 or visit its website for information and instructions to declare the major.
Advising Tips
Students are advised to declare their major early in their academic career. Anthropology advisors will provide information about the program, help develop a plan of study and answer any questions.
Grade Requirements
A grade of C- or better is required for a student’s major or minor courses, and supporting courses for majors and minors.
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