Since human beings are closely related to the great apes, some biological anthropologists specialize in the study of primate behavior and anatomy to help understand our physical and social origins. Patterns of health and disease, human genetics, demography, and questions of race and racism are other central interests in biological anthropology. The Major The Anthropology Department is one of the largest in New England, with 15 full-time faculty members, about 210 undergraduate majors, and 85 graduate students. All four subdisciplines are represented by the faculty of four archaeologists, four biological anthropologists, and seven socio-cultural anthropologists, including one anthropological linguist. The department offers more than 50 courses for undergraduates, comprising a full complement for each of the subdisciplines.
Majors have a flexible set of requirements, reflecting the very broad scope of the field.
Students develop depth and breadth, and select specific programs of study to suit their individual interests and requirements. The advising system encourages students to consult frequently with their faculty advisers about their course selections and their educational and career goals. Undergraduate majors are represented on all administrative committees of the department, are formally organized as the Undergraduate Caucus, and sponsor social and educational events during the year. The department has large research and study collections in archaeology and biological anthropology, videotape and recording equipment, an extensive collection of anthropological films, and several laboratories for biological anthropology and archaeology. Cooperative agreements are being developed for anthropological practica with other institutions, and internships are encouraged.