Anthropology
“Anthropology, it is frequently noted, makes the familiar strange and the strange familiar. Off-campus study, whether it be near or far, can offer the same.”
–Jason Pribilsky ’93, Professor of Anthropology
Study abroad can help Anthropology students:
- Expand cross-cultural communication and problem-solving skills
- Develop an awareness of the major discipline from a different scholarly tradition
- Gain primary research skills from field studies and work with primary sources, such as collecting ethnographic data.
- Develop a global perspective
- Prepare for an increasingly diverse and international workplace
- Improve or acquire foreign language skills
How does a semester or year of study abroad help students in Anthropology prepare for graduate school or various career opportunities?
- During study abroad, students can improve foreign language skills, practice social science research methods, and acquire an in-depth understanding of a country or region.
- Study abroad prepares students for future work in diverse communities.
As a general rule of thumb, the Anthropology Department recommends the following for students who wish to study abroad.
- First-year and second-year students are encouraged to take ANTH 101 Becoming Human: An Introduction to Anthropology and ANTH 201 The Strange Familiar: Fundamentals of Cultural Anthropology. Additionally, the student should take as much of the language of the study abroad destination as possible in preparation.
- If possible prior to study abroad, anthropology majors should enroll in an ethnographic skills course such as: ANTH 312, 317, 325, 337 or 339.
Which requirements can Anthropology majors fulfill while studying abroad?
- Elective major credit
- Research that can inform the senior thesis
Major Credit Limitations
- The maximum number of credits that can be applied to the Anthropology major from off-campus studies (including AP credit, IB credit and credits from other U.S. institutions) is 12 credits with the approval of your Major Advisor.
Minor Credit Limitations
- A minimum of three-fifths of the specific course and credit requirements for the minor must be completed in the on-campus program of the college.
What are the types of study abroad programs recommended by the Anthropology Department?
- Field study program with the opportunity to engage in research with the local community
- Programs that provide an opportunity for in-depth exploration of the ethnography of another region
- Programs that help students gain proficiency in another language
- Programs that offer an opportunity for independent study research
Which partner programs are recommended by the Anthropology Department?
- Students with a strong interest in cultural anthropology should consider SIT and other programs with a field component. Students who are interested in direct enrollment at foreign universities and taking classes with local students should consider universities that offer anthropology courses, such as IES: University College London (UCL), University of Otago, IFSA: Merida Universities Program, and IFSA: University of Melbourne Partnership.
- Environmental Studies-Sociology majors should consult either the Environmental Studies Advising Sheet or the Environmental Studies webpage for further details.
Students interested in studying abroad should attend a Study Abroad First Steps Meeting in the fall of their second year, discuss their interests with their Major Advisor, and schedule an appointment with a Study Abroad Advisor.
Office of Global Programs
- Email or call to schedule a virtual advising appointment
- 509-527-4992
Office of Global Programs
- Email or call to schedule a virtual advising appointment
- 509-527-4992