Anthropology, B.A.
In today's complex world, a major in Anthropology is particularly relevant. Anthropology is global in its perspective, comparatively studying humankind, in all places and throughout time. Students of anthropology develop an understanding of the concept of culture and how it unites human social, political, biological, and historical experiences. Majors in Anthropology further develop this holistic understanding of the human condition in applied research particularly emphasizing issues of human diversity, ethnocentrism, and inequality. Individuals with anthropology degrees are sought after in many professional contexts, including non-profit organizations, businesses, and governmental agencies. Anthropology is an excellent degree for pre-law and pre-med students or Anthropology majors may choose to pursue a career in anthropological research in socio-cultural anthropology, archaeology, or biological anthropology.
The Anthropology major at Wagner is divided into three sub-fields: socio-cultural anthropology, archaeology, and biological anthropology. Students take classes in all three of the fields, though they may choose to focus their coursework and research in one of these areas. Reflecting the research interests of Wagner's faculty, area courses are offered on the anthropology of the North America, the Caribbean and its Diaspora, and South America.
Socio-Cultural Anthropology is the study of human culture and society around the world. Socio-cultural anthropology students study the relationship between culture and human behavior. Socio-cultural anthropology students can expand their anthropological training to research and experiential placements in culturally diverse contexts in New York City and beyond.
Archaeology is the study of ancient culture and society. Archaeology students not only learn about ancient cultures of the world, but also the methods used by archaeologists to study them. Training in archaeology will begin in the classroom but can extend to archaeological field projects around the world.
Biological Anthropology is the study of human biological diversity and evolutionary history, with an eye toward understanding the interplay between biology and culture. Biological anthropology students study genetics, skeletal anatomy, human growth and development, our fossil ancestors, and even our closest living relatives, the primates. Beyond the classroom, students can engage in both field and laboratory projects in biological anthropology.
Learning Goals for Anthropology
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