Anthropology, B.A.

Tori Barnes-Brus, Erin Davis (chair), Mary Olson

Anthropology is the comparative and holistic study of humankind, an examination of what it means to be human. Thinking anthropologically allows us to explore the rich diversity in human life, encourages respect for individuals and for other cultures, and critically examines the complex influences of history, tradition, religion, global and local systems of power, innovation, and individual agency.

Anthropology at Cornell is grounded in an interdisciplinary approach that allows students to grow intellectually as they immerse themselves in a broad array of topics..

Students at Cornell learn anthropology through hands-on practice. OCAAT courses provide the flexibility to do community-based research, study abroad, take field-trips and learn from experts in a variety of fields, while seminar-style discussion courses give students and faculty the opportunity to dig into complex subjects like climate change, poverty, refugee resettlement, changing gender norms or the persistence of structural racism.

Anthropology majors develop advanced and transferable skills such as critical thinking, careful reading, qualitative data analysis and excellent communication skills applicable to almost any career. An anthropology major provides invaluable preparation for non-profit and community work, government service, research, international development, and work in business and high-tech sectors.

Anthropology courses contribute to the following interdisciplinary programs: Archaeology; Environmental Justice and Sustainability; Civic Engagement; International Relations; Gender, Sexuality and Women’s Studies; Race, Ethnicity and Social Justice

Requirements

An interdisciplinary major with a minimum of 11 course credits, which include:

ANT 101 - Cultural Anthropology (1) OR ANT 102
ANT 384 - Qualitative Research Methods and Fieldwork (1)
ANT 383 - Anthropological Theory (1)
ANT 487 - SOC/SAN/ANT Senior Seminar (1)
Five additional Anthropology courses, of which at least two are at or above the 300 level.
One course in Sociology at the 200 or 300 level.
One 300-level course in a discipline that complements the student’s interest and the particular subject-area concentration chosen outside of SOC or ANT.
Note: A maximum of two course credits in Anthropology may be earned through individualized research and/or internships. Course credit in individualized research and/or internships outside of Anthropology do not count towards the major. No more than three 100-level courses may be counted toward the total of 11 course credits.
Because anthropology so centrally concerns itself with the lived experiences of people in other cultures, students are strongly encouraged to take advantage of the opportunity to study outside the U.S. Off-campus blocks should focus on culture, language and/or history and should be selected in consultation with one’s advisor.