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Welcome to the Department of Anthropology

What is anthropology?

A broadly based discipline, anthropology focuses on a vast range of topics in four main subfields; Physical (Biological) Anthropology, Cultural Anthropology, Archaeology, and Linguistic Anthropology. Anthropologists find interests in many different aspects of the human experience across time and space. Our faculty research interests include human osteology, historical archaeology, urban anthropology, social movements, gender and culture, ethnicity, migration, diasporic cultures, and much more. Visit our faculty directory to see their particular, individual interests.

What can I do with a BA in anthropology?

Training students to apply anthropological insight to non-academic settings is the focus of all our faculty. Many of our graduates go right into the job market and apply their anthropology skills in diverse settings including hospitals, state and federal agencies, zoos, museums, archaeological contracting firms, and almost any context in which an understanding of human culture is essential. Other students have continued on to graduate school at some of the most competitive M.A. and Ph.D. programs in the country. For more information about anthropologists and possible careers, visit the American Anthropological web site.

What opportunities can the department provide me for developing the skills I need to be a successful student and anthropologist?

Our anthropology majors have many opportunities to develop their own research and hone their skills. The department offers two working labs for students to get hands-on experience in the fields of physical anthropology and archaeology. The department also encourages students to engage in community outreach, service, and/or organizing. Indianapolis is home to many community organizations representing many different constituencies and our students seize these opportunities to conduct research and/or work in collaboration with one of these local organizations.

Please feel free to contact us with any questions and you're welcome to visit us on Facebook. You can also visit the Anthropology Club on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.