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College of Arts & Sciences

Anthropology

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Why pursue an anthropology degree at North Central College?

Have you ever wondered what makes us human? Anthropology is the scientific study of human behavior and human diversity in the broadest sense. Anthropologists ask questions about what makes life meaningful, the role of language in human cognition, how people secure energy from the physical environment, how group decisions are made, what makes a person a person, and so forth. The anthropological perspective addresses these questions by gathering data through various kinds of fieldwork, from excavation of archaeological sites to immersion in contemporary communities.

At North Central, you’ll join our fieldwork-intensive curriculum, studying a wide range of anthropological topics. We facilitate hands-on learning and encourage work with dedicated faculty on individualized projects and a robust study abroad program. Anthropological skills can lead to graduate school and a wide range of rewarding careers in the public or private sector.

IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN

  • Unraveling the evolutionary origins of humankind
  • Studying human social and cultural similarities and differences
  • Traveling abroad to study how people in other societies understand the world around them

then a degree in ANTHROPOLOGY might be for you.

Why study anthropology at North Central College?

In the Classroom

Coursework topics:

  • Cultural Ecology
  • Field Methods
  • Forensic Anthropology
  • Indigenous Peoples, the State, and the Global Order
  • Language and Culture in Community
  • Mayas, Aztecs and Their Neighbors: Heart of Earth
  • Native Nations of North America: Homelands, Reservations and Urban Indian Communities
  • Social Life and Social Theory
  • Stones and Bones: Archaeology and Biological Anthropology

Beyond the Classroom

As an anthropology major, you can:

  • Apply for internships and jobs through robust faculty and alumni networks or the Center for Career and Professional Development.
  • Apply for a Richter Grant and explore your own research interests from anywhere in the world.
  • Conduct research and present findings at local, regional and national conferences.
  • Travel to Guatemala during the College’s May Term to study highland Mayan culture while working with indigenous artists and farmers.
  • Apply for the Mironda K. Heston Scholarship for Public Service, which funds international human service projects.

More Department information

Anthropology, B.A.

For additional programs and courses in this department, see Sociology and Anthropology.

Foundational Courses

Place-Oriented Courses

Two of the following:

Topical Courses

Two of the following:

Fieldwork

Two credit hours from the following:

Capstone

Students must demonstrate elementary competence in a foreign language. For more information, see the B.A. Degree Requirements within the Academic Regulations section of this catalog.

Anthropology Minor

For additional programs and courses in this department, see Sociology and Anthropology.

20 credit hours, including:

Foundational Courses

Place-Oriented Courses

Four credit hours from the following:

Topical Courses

Four credit hours from the following:

Anthropology Internships and Jobs

A North Central education integrates career preparation with rich academic study. Our faculty encourages you to refine and apply your knowledge in an interconnected world. Here you'll learn to think independently and work globally to solve problems and lead.

Internships

  • The Field Museum, Chicago

Graduate Schools

Recent graduates in anthropology have been accepted at:

  • Cambridge University
  • University of Chicago
  • University of Louisville
  • University of Illinois, Graduate School of Library and Information Science

Careers

Recent graduates in anthropology include:

  • Library assistant, University of Chicago
  • National Archives employee, Great Lakes Branch, Chicago
  • After-school children’s club coordinator for refugee children, World Relief, Aurora, IL
  • Fair trade importer, WorldFinds, Westmont, IL

 

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Merit scholarships, grants, loans, campus employment - these are just some of the resources available to you. Over 95 percent of students and 100 percent of all eligible students receive aid. Let our team partner with you in finding the best value for your education.

Learn more about financial aid and costs for North Central College

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