Anthropology

The Anthropology program at Dartmouth College offers a comprehensive and rigorous exploration of human societies, cultures, and biological diversity across time and space. Rooted in a multidisciplinary approach, the program provides students with a deep understanding of the complex factors that shape human experience, combining perspectives from archaeology, cultural anthropology, biological anthropology, and linguistic anthropology. Students are encouraged to engage in critical analysis of contemporary issues, while gaining insights into the evolutionary history of humans, the diversity of contemporary cultures, and the societal structures that influence human behavior. The curriculum features a diverse range of courses that cover topics such as human origins, ancient civilizations, language and communication, social organization, kinship, belief systems, and issues of race, ethnicity, and identity. Fieldwork, research projects, and internships are integral components of the program, enabling students to apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings and develop essential research skills. The faculty comprises leading scholars dedicated to fostering an inclusive and dynamic learning environment, supporting students in their intellectual growth and academic pursuits. Graduates of the Anthropology program are well-equipped for careers in academia, research, education, public policy, cultural resource management, and beyond. They are prepared to contribute thoughtfully and ethically to understanding and addressing global challenges related to human diversity, social justice, and cultural heritage. With access to Dartmouth's extensive resources and a vibrant intellectual community, students in the Anthropology program are encouraged to pursue their interests with curiosity, critical thinking, and a commitment to making a positive impact on the world.

Anthropology at Dartmouth College offers a comprehensive exploration of human diversity, culture, and biological evolution. The program provides students with a multidisciplinary approach, integrating insights from archaeology, linguistic, cultural, and biological anthropology to foster a deep understanding of what it means to be human. Students engage in rigorous coursework that examines the origins and development of human societies, the complexity of cultural practices, and the biological underpinnings of human evolution. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, ethnographic research methods, and fieldwork experience, enabling students to analyze cultural phenomena and participate actively in anthropological research. Dartmouth's vibrant academic community encourages students to investigate contemporary issues such as globalization, social inequality, and cultural change through an anthropological lens. The program's faculty members are distinguished scholars who mentor students in various research projects, often involving field studies in diverse regions including North America, Africa, and Asia. Additionally, students have access to advanced laboratories and resources that support biological analyses, archaeological excavations, and linguistic studies. The anthropology program at Dartmouth aims to prepare students for a variety of career paths, including graduate studies, public policy, international development, museum work, and more. Through a combination of coursework, research opportunities, and internships, students develop a nuanced understanding of human societies past and present. Graduates emerge equipped with the analytical skills and cultural knowledge necessary to contribute meaningfully to our understanding of human diversity and societal challenges worldwide.

The Anthropology Program at Dartmouth College offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to provide students with a broad understanding of human biological and cultural evolution, social structures, and diverse cultural practices across the globe. Students pursuing a degree in Anthropology are encouraged to engage in rigorous coursework that covers foundational theories, ethnographic methods, archaeological techniques, and biological analyses. Typically, requirements include completing core courses such as Introduction to Anthropology, which introduces key concepts and methodologies; courses in Cultural Anthropology, focusing on social systems, kinship, religion, and politics; Biological Anthropology, exploring human evolution, genetics, and primatology; and Archaeology, examining material culture and excavation techniques. Beyond these core classes, students are expected to select advanced electives allowing specialization in areas such as medical anthropology, linguistic anthropology, historical archaeology, or forensic anthropology.

A significant component of the program involves participating in research projects or fieldwork, which often takes place during the summer or in directed study courses, enabling students to gain practical experience. Students are also encouraged to study abroad or participate in field schools to deepen their understanding of diverse cultural contexts. The program emphasizes developing critical thinking, ethnographic writing, and analytical skills that prepare students for careers in research, conservation, policy, or further academic study. Preadmission requirements generally include a strong academic background in social sciences and sciences, with an interest in interdisciplinary approaches to understanding human behavior and societies. To complete their degree, students must fulfill graduation requirements such as passing prerequisite courses, maintaining a minimum GPA in major coursework, and completing a capstone project or thesis which synthesizes their learning and research. Overall, Dartmouth’s Anthropology program aims to cultivate culturally aware and scientifically grounded graduates equipped to analyze complex social and biological phenomena.

The Anthropology program at Dartmouth College offers a comprehensive array of financing options to support students throughout their academic journey. Undergraduate students enrolled in the anthropology major can access federal and institutional financial aid programs, including need-based grants and scholarships, to offset tuition and associated costs. Dartmouth College participates in federal aid programs such as the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), enabling eligible students to receive Pell Grants, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG), and federal student loans. In addition to federal aid, the college provides institutional scholarships and grants based on merit and financial need, which do not require repayment. Many students also benefit from the College's need-blind admission process and meets 100% of demonstrated financial need, ensuring access regardless of economic background.

Dartmouth's financial aid office offers personalized counseling to help students explore various financing options, including work-study programs, which allow students to earn money through on-campus employment, thereby reducing reliance on loans. The college encourages students to apply early for scholarships and financial aid to maximize their opportunities. For students pursuing advanced studies or specific research related to anthropology, Dartmouth provides funding opportunities such as research grants and fellowships, which can help cover costs associated with fieldwork, conferences, and internships. External funding sources, including private foundations and government agencies, may also be available to anthropology students seeking specialized research support. Overall, Dartmouth College is committed to making anthropology education accessible through its robust and diverse financing programs, ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent capable students from engaging deeply with the discipline.

The Anthropology program at Dartmouth College offers a comprehensive exploration of human societies, cultures, and biological aspects of humanity through an integrated interdisciplinary approach. The department aims to develop students' understanding of human diversity, evolution, and social structures across time and space. Students enrolled in the program have the opportunity to engage with a wide range of coursework, including cultural anthropology, archaeology, biological anthropology, and linguistics, allowing for a well-rounded education in the field. Dartmouth's anthropology faculty includes distinguished scholars who provide mentorship and facilitate research opportunities, encouraging students to participate in fieldwork, ethnographic studies, and laboratory research. The program emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and hands-on experience, preparing graduates for careers in academia, research, public policy, NGOs, cultural resource management, and other related areas. Students can also participate in study abroad programs to gain international perspectives and engage with diverse cultures firsthand. The department fosters a collaborative learning environment through seminars, workshops, and research clusters, enabling students to develop their academic interests and professional networks. Additionally, Dartmouth College supports interdisciplinary initiatives and offers minors and concentrations in related fields such as environmental studies, history, and linguistic anthropology, providing students with flexible educational pathways. With access to extensive archives, research centers, and advanced facilities, students are equipped to conduct original research that contributes to the understanding of human development and cultural change. Overall, Dartmouth’s Anthropology program prepares students for meaningful engagement with contemporary social issues, archaeological discoveries, and evolutionary theories, emphasizing the importance of anthropological perspectives in understanding the complex fabric of human life.