COURSE CURRICULUM

The Anthropology program at Southeast Missouri State University is a 39-credit-hour major that provides a balanced mix of foundational knowledge, research skills, and specialized study options, with no minor required. The required core courses introduce students to the key subfields of anthropology, including Cultural Anthropology, Archaeology, and Biological Anthropology. Courses such as Professional Development in Anthropology and the Anthropology Theory Seminar help students build academic, research, and career-focused skills while deepening their understanding of anthropological theories and methods.Students then expand their knowledge by selecting 9 credit hours from important methodological and topical courses such as Ethnographic Field Methods, Linguistic Anthropology, Human Evolution and Adaptations, and Archaeology Method and Theory. These courses allow students to explore different approaches to studying human cultures, languages, and biological development. In addition, students choose a supporting course in either Physical Geography or Physical Geology to strengthen their understanding of environmental and physical contexts related to human history.A key feature of the program is the flexibility to choose one of two advising tracks based on career interests. The General Anthropology Track allows students to select 12 credit hours from a wide range of specialized courses such as Archaeology Fieldwork, Archaeology Lab, Applied Anthropology, Anthropology of Religion, Human Osteology, and Forensic Anthropology. This track is ideal for students interested in research, fieldwork, or scientific applications of anthropology.Alternatively, the Global Studies Track focuses on international perspectives and cross-cultural understanding. Students complete coursework in applied anthropology or study abroad/internship experiences, along with foreign language courses and geography-related subjects such as Political Geography or global cultural landscapes. This track is well-suited for students interested in international careers, global development, or cultural exchange.Overall, the program offers a flexible and hands-on learning experience, preparing students for careers in research, cultural resource management, public service, or graduate studies in anthropology and related fields.