Anthropology and Sociology

C. Menning, Chairperson

The Department of Anthropology and Sociology offers students an integrated perspective on human behavior, culture, and society—past and present, local and global. As social sciences, both anthropology and sociology are grounded in systematic, theory-informed research and analysis. They also draw upon insights and methods from the humanities, biological sciences, and data sciences.

Anthropology explores the full breadth of human experience across time and space through its four traditional subfields. Cultural anthropology investigates human lifeways in comparative perspective. Archaeology analyzes material remains to understand long-term cultural change. Biological anthropology examines human evolution, biological diversity, and the interface of biology and culture. Linguistic anthropology considers the role of language in shaping human experience.

Sociology focuses on the patterns and processes of social interaction, organization, and change. Sociologists study how individuals are shaped by group dynamics, institutional structures, and cultural beliefs. They investigate issues such as inequality, identity, deviance, social movements, and globalization, using rigorous qualitative and quantitative methods to generate knowledge and inform social change.

Through coursework in both disciplines, students gain practical skills in research methods, data analysis, critical thinking, writing, and problem solving. Field schools, laboratory experiences, and internships offer applied learning opportunities in settings ranging from archaeological sites to community organizations. Students are prepared for careers in business, government, non-profits, education, and research, or for graduate study in a wide range of fields, including anthropology, sociology, law, public health, social work, urban planning, and beyond.

The department offers majors in anthropology and sociology, including a teaching major in social studies with a concentration in sociology. Students may also pursue minors and departmental honors in both fields.