COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology at Wright State University is an interdisciplinary program that examines human societies, cultures, biology, evolution, and material remains across time and place. The program helps students understand the diverse ways people interact with one another and shape their social, cultural, political, and environmental worlds. Through the study of human behavior, language, archaeology, biological diversity, and cultural systems, students are encouraged to critically examine assumptions that may seem natural within their own societies and develop a broader global perspective. The curriculum is built around the three major subfields of anthropology: Cultural Anthropology, Biological Anthropology, and Archaeology. Students complete foundational coursework in biological anthropology, archaeology, and non-Western cultures before advancing to specialized upper-level courses in each area. Major requirements include studies in anthropological theory, archaeological theory, field methods, ethnographic research, and advanced electives that allow students to explore topics aligned with their interests. The program emphasizes scientific inquiry, critical thinking, research methodology, fieldwork, data analysis, and professional writing. Students learn to investigate human origins, biological adaptation, and diversity; identify and interpret archaeological sites and artifacts; and analyze cultural interactions in both local and global contexts. A distinctive feature of the degree is its strong liberal arts foundation, which includes foreign language study through the intermediate level, quantitative and qualitative research training, and interdisciplinary coursework connecting anthropology with other social sciences and humanities disciplines. Students also complete courses in research methods and critical thinking, strengthening their analytical and communication skills. The program has open admission for all students meeting general university requirements and requires a total of 120 credit hours for graduation. Graduates are prepared for careers in archaeology, cultural resource management, museums, nonprofit organizations, education, community development, international organizations, government agencies, social research, historic preservation, and public service. Many students also pursue graduate study in anthropology or related fields. Overall, the program provides a comprehensive understanding of humanity while equipping students with valuable research, communication, cultural awareness, and problem-solving skills that are highly transferable across a wide range of professional and academic careers.