Most of the courses are smaller, with intermediate courses ranging in size from 20 to 30 students, and advanced classes averaging up to 15. Students majoring in biological anthropology must supplement their studies with related course work, usually in the fields of botany, chemistry, cultural anthropology, mathematics, physics, psychology, or zoology. Students are assigned to advisors on the basis of preference and field of interest. Undergraduates have opportunities to participate in faculty research projects. The Department of Biological Anthropology and Anatomy offers a number of seminars, as well as a wide variety of independent study opportunities, which may lead to graduation with distinction from the department.
Majors can produce a thesis for graduation with honors.
Numerous research opportunities exist at the Primate Center or in the fieldwork of the faculty. Senior students can also participate in the primatology program which includes a mixture of classes, fieldwork at the Primate Center, and seminars. Seniors who successfully complete the program will be awarded the Certificate in Primatology. More than one-third of Duke's biological anthropology majors go on to graduate study in primatology or physical anthropology. Others go on to graduate study in medicine, conservation, or other fields.