The ISU program in Anthropology is housed in the Department of World Languages and Cultures (http://catalog.iastate.edu/collegeofliberalartsandsciences/worldlanguagesandcultures/).
An undergraduate major in Anthropology can serve as the nucleus for a general liberal education, or as the prerequisite for graduate training qualifying a person for positions in (1) college and university teaching, (2) research, and (3) administrative and applied positions in government, development organizations, museums, and private businesses or corporations.
Anthropology students develop a well-rounded professional education in cultural anthropology, archaeology, and biological anthropology. They learn what it means to be human through the study of culture and society, the biology and evolution of humans and other primates, and through the study of past human communities and material culture. Students learn the important historical and contemporary issues of our subdisciplines, and they learn what it means to be an Anthropologist and acquire an anthropological perspective on global issues. Students develop an appreciation of the value of cultural difference at the local, national and global levels. Students may obtain experience in archaeological, ethnographic and biological research.
Anthropology majors may choose either a bachelor of arts or a bachelor of science degree, both of which require 33 credits in anthropology. A bachelor of arts degree is obtained by fulfilling the college general education requirements plus 6 additional credits in Area I (Arts and Humanities) or III (Social Sciences) or a combination of both. A bachelor of science degree is obtained by fulfilling the college general education requirements plus 6 additional credits in Area IIA (Mathematics) or IIB (Natural Sciences) or a combination of both.
Undergraduate students with majors in anthropology are required to take the following anthropology core courses:
| ANTHR 201 | Introduction to Cultural Anthropology | 3 |
| ANTHR 202 | Introduction to Biological Anthropology and Archaeology | 3 |
| ANTHR 306 | Cultural Anthropology | 3 |
| ANTHR 307 | Biological Anthropology | 3 |
| ANTHR 308 | Archaeology | 3 |
| ANTHR 450 | Historical and Theoretical Approaches in Anthropology | 3 |
| One course in statistics is required | 3 | |
| In addition to the above, 15 ANTHR choice credits are required. | 15 | |
Communication Proficiency requirement: According to the university-wide Communication Proficiency Grade Requirement, students must demonstrate their communication proficiency by earning a grade of C or better in ENGL 250.
| ENGL 250 | Written, Oral, Visual, and Electronic Composition | 3 |
| or ENGL 250H | Written, Oral, Visual, and Electronic Composition: Honors | |
| Additionally, the Anthropology Program requires a grade of C or better in one of the following courses: | ||
| Business Communication | ||
| Proposal and Report Writing | ||
| Technical Communication | ||
The principal sub-disciplines of anthropology are represented by the following:
1. Cultural anthropology:
| ANTHR 201 | Introduction to Cultural Anthropology | 3 |
| ANTHR 230 | Globalization and the Human Condition | 3 |
| ANTHR 306 | Cultural Anthropology | 3 |
| ANTHR 309 | Introduction to Culture and Language | 3 |
| ANTHR 313 | Kinship and Marriage in a Global Perspective | 3 |
| ANTHR 322 | Peoples and Cultures of Native North America | 3 |
| ANTHR 323 | Topics in Latin American Anthropology | 3 |
| ANTHR 325 | Peoples and Cultures of Africa. | 3 |
| ANTHR 332 | Current Issues in Native North America | 3 |
| ANTHR 336 | Global Development | 3 |
| ANTHR 340 | Magic, Witchcraft, and Religion | 3 |
| ANTHR 354 | War and the Politics of Humanitarianism | 3 |
| ANTHR 411 | Anthropology for Global Professionals | 3 |
| ANTHR 418 | Global Culture, Consumption and Modernity | 3 |
| ANTHR 431 | Ethnographic Field School | 4-6 |
| ANTHR 434B | Internship: Cultural Anthropology | 2-6 |
| ANTHR 434D | Internship: Linguistic Anthropology | 2-6 |
| ANTHR 444 | Sex and Gender in Cross-cultural Perspective | 3 |
| ANTHR 450 | Historical and Theoretical Approaches in Anthropology | 3 |
| ANTHR 451B | Practicum in Anthropology: Cultural Anthropology | 1-3 |
| ANTHR 451D | Practicum in Anthropology: Linguistic Anthropology | 1-3 |
| ANTHR 490B | Independent Study: Cultural Anthropology | 1-5 |
| ANTHR 490D | Independent Study: Linguistic Anthropology | 1-5 |
2. Archaeology:
| ANTHR 202 | Introduction to Biological Anthropology and Archaeology | 3 |
| ANTHR 308 | Archaeology | 3 |
| ANTHR 315 | Archaeology of North America | 3 |
| ANTHR 320 | Great Plains Archaeology | 3 |
| ANTHR 321 | World Prehistory | 3 |
| ANTHR 328 | Archaeological Discovery and Analysis | 3 |
| ANTHR 429 | Topics in Archaeological Laboratory Methods and Techniques: Archaeological Field School | 4-6 |
| ANTHR 434A | Internship: Archaeology | 2-6 |
| ANTHR 450 | Historical and Theoretical Approaches in Anthropology | 3 |
| ANTHR 451A | Practicum in Anthropology: Archaeology | 1-3 |
| ANTHR 427I | Field Archaeology | 4 |
| ANTHR 490A | Independent Study: Archaeology | 1-5 |
3. Biological Anthropology:
| ANTHR 202 | Introduction to Biological Anthropology and Archaeology | 3 |
| ANTHR 307 | Biological Anthropology | 3 |
| ANTHR 319 | Skeletal Biology | 3 |
| ANTHR 424 | Forensic Anthropology | 3 |
| ANTHR 434C | Internship: Biological Anthropology | 2-6 |
| ANTHR 445 | Biological Field School | 4-6 |
| ANTHR 451C | Practicum in Anthropology: Biological Anthropology | 1-3 |
| ANTHR 490C | Independent Study: Biological Anthropology | 1-5 |
A minor in anthropology consists of at least 15 credits.
| ANTHR 201 | Introduction to Cultural Anthropology | 3 |
| ANTHR 202 | Introduction to Biological Anthropology and Archaeology | 3 |
| One of the following in cultural anthropology: | 3 | |
| Cultural Anthropology | ||
or ANTHR 309 | Introduction to Culture and Language | |
or ANTHR 322 | Peoples and Cultures of Native North America | |
or ANTHR 323 | Topics in Latin American Anthropology | |
or ANTHR 340 | Magic, Witchcraft, and Religion | |
| One of the following in archaeology or biological anthroplogy: | 3 | |
| Biological Anthropology | ||
or ANTHR 308 | Archaeology | |
or ANTHR 315 | Archaeology of North America | |
or ANTHR 319 | Skeletal Biology | |
or ANTHR 321 | World Prehistory | |
or ANTHR 482 | Topics in Biological Anthropology | |
| Three additional credits in ANTHR at the 300+ level | 3 | |
Anthropology B.S., B.A.
| Freshman | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| ENGL 150 | 3 | ANTHR 202 | 3 |
| LIB 160 | 1 | Minor choice | 3 |
| ANTHR 201 | 3 | Social science choice | 3 |
| Elective | 3 | Natural science choice | 3 |
| Arts & Humanities choice | 3 | Arts & Humanities choice | 3 |
| Social science choice | 3 | ||
| 16 | 15 | ||
| Sophomore | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| ANTHR 308 | 3 | ANTHR 306 | 3 |
| World Languages and Cultures/International Perspective | 4 | World Languages and Cultures/International Perspective | 4 |
| Humanities choice | 3 | ANTHR 300 choice | 3 |
| ENGL 250 | 3 | Minor choice | 3 |
| ANTHR 300 choice | 3 | Natural science choice | 3 |
| 16 | 16 | ||
| Junior | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| ANTHR 425 | 2 | ANTHR 307 | 3 |
| STAT 101 | 4 | ENGL 300-level | 3 |
| Arts & Humanities choice | 3 | ANTHR 300 | 3 |
| ANTHR 300 choice | 3 | Minor choice | 3 |
| Natural science choice | 3 | Additional Area requirement | 3 |
| Summer: It is highly recommended that students complete a field school, internship, or study abroad experience during the summer between their junior and senior years however, this is not required for graduation. | |||
| 15 | 15 | ||
| Senior | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| ANTHR 450 | 3 | ANTHR 300 choice | 3 |
| Minor choice | 3 | Minor choice | 3 |
| ANTHR 300 choice | 3 | Elective | 3 |
| Additional Area requirement | 3 | Elective | 3 |
| Electives | 3 | ||
| 15 | 12 | ||
LAS majors require a minimum of 120 credits, including a minimum of 45 credits at the 300/400 level. Students in all ISU majors must complete a three-credit course in U.S. diversity and a three-credit course in international perspectives. Check (http://www.registrar.iastate.edu/courses/div-ip-guide.html) for a list of approved courses. Students in Anthropology have the option of pursuing a B.S. or a B.A. A B.S requires six additional group requirement credits in natural science or mathematics disciplines. A B.A. requires six additional group requirement credits in social or humanities disciplines. |
Graduate Study
The department offers a master of arts degree with a major in anthropology. Graduate courses are offered in the areas of biological anthropology, archaeology, cultural anthropology, and anthropological history and theory. Competence in one foreign language and in statistics must be demonstrated. A thesis, based on original research, is required.
Courses
Courses primarily for undergraduates:
(3-0) Cr. 3. F.S.SS.
Comparative study of culture as key to understanding human behaviors in different societies. Using a global, cross-cultural perspective, patterns of family life, economic and political activities, religious beliefs, and the ways in which cultures change are examined.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.
(3-0) Cr. 3. F.S.
Human biological and cultural evolution; survey of the evidence from fossil primates, the human fossil record and the archaeological record, as well as living primates; introduction to research methods in archaeology and biological anthropology.
(Cross-listed with ENV S, GLOBE, M E, MAT E, SOC, T SC). (3-0) Cr. 3. F.S.
An introduction to understanding the key global issues in sustainability. Focuses on interconnected roles of energy, materials, human resources, economics, and technology in building and maintaining sustainable systems. Applications discussed will include challenges in both the developed and developing world and will examine the role of technology in a resource-constrained world.
Cannot be used for technical elective credit in any engineering department.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.
(Cross-listed with AM IN). Cr. 3. F.
Cultures and histories of Native people who have called the present state of Iowa home; primary focus on the period between 1700 CE and the present; Native interactions with Spanish, French, British, and American people.
Meets U.S. Diversity Requirement
(3-0) Cr. 3. F.S.
An introduction to understanding key global issues in the contemporary world. Focuses on social relations, cultural practices and political-economic linkages among Africa, the Americas, Asia, Europe and the Pacific.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.
(2-2) Cr. 3. F.S.SS.
Prereq: ANTHR 202 and/or basic biology course recommended
An introduction to the Order Primates with a focus on their behavior. Biological and social adaptations of monkeys, apes, and prosimians; basic evolutionary concepts, current trends and theories in the field of Primatology and issues related to primate conservation.
(2-2) Cr. 3. S.
Prereq: ANTHR 201
Survey of the major theoretical, methodological and empirical foundations of cultural anthropology. Participatory lab: focus on ethnographic methods through individual research projects.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.
(2-2) Cr. 3. S.
Prereq: ANTHR 202
Human evolution as known from fossil evidence, comparative primate studies, and genetic variations in living populations. Laboratory-tutorial sessions include study and discussion of human osteology, fossil hominids, simple Mendelian traits, and bio-ethics in applied biological anthropology.
(2-2) Cr. 3. F.
Prereq: ANTHR 202
Methods and techniques for the recovery and interpretation of archaeological evidence, its role in reconstructing human behavior and past environments. Laboratory sessions include experience in the interpretation of archaeological evidence, the use of classification systems, and prehistoric technologies such as ceramics and stone tools.
(Cross-listed with LING). (3-0) Cr. 3.
Prereq: ANTHR 201 recommended
Introduction to study of language, culture and society from an anthropological perspective. Focus on language and thought, ethnography of speaking, discourse and narrative, writing and literacy, and media communication. Discussion of key theories and methods of linguistic anthropology.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 513). (3-0) Cr. 3. S.
Prereq: ANTHR 201 recommended
Comparative and historical overview of the family, marriage and kinship. Examination of cross-cultural differences in the construction and functioning of family and kin relations; role of kinship in structuring individual and collective activities; current critical and theoretical issues in kinship studies, especially integrating work on gender and sexuality.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 515). (Cross-listed with AM IN). (3-0) Cr. 3. S.
Prereq: ANTHR 202
Prehistory and early history of North America as reconstructed from archaeological evidence; peopling of the New World; culture- historical sequences of major culture areas; linkages of archaeological traditions with selected ethnohistorically known Native American groups.
Meets U.S. Diversity Requirement
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 519). (2-2) Cr. 3. F.
Prereq: ANTHR 307 or college level biology
Comprehensive study of the skeletal anatomy, physiology, genetics, growth, development and population variation of the human skeleton. Applications to forensic anthropology, paleopathology and bioarchaeology are introduced.
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 520). (Cross-listed with AM IN). (3-0) Cr. 3. F.
Prereq: ANTHR 202
Prehistoric societies of the Great Plains region of North America, from initial occupation to European contact; emphasis on sociocultural changes, continuities, and adaptations to changing environments using archaeological, ecological, ethnographic information.
Meets U.S. Diversity Requirement
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 521). (3-0) Cr. 3. S.
Prereq: ANTHR 202 recommended
An introduction to archaeological sites from around the world including the Near East, Africa, Europe, Mesoamerica, and North and South America. Emphasis is on the interpretation of material cultural remains in reconstructing past societies.
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 522). (Cross-listed with AM IN). (3-0) Cr. 3.
Prereq: ANTHR 201 or AM IN 210
Origin, distribution, and pre-contact life of the indigenous peoples of North America. Survey of culture areas; language families, social and political systems, ecological and economic adaptations, religion and spirituality; impact of European contact; cultural resilience and revitalization in contemporary American Indian life.
Meets U.S. Diversity Requirement
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 523). (Cross-listed with US LS). (3-0) Cr. 3. Repeatable, maximum of 9 credits. S.
Prereq: ANTHR 201 or ANTHR 306 recommended
Exploration of key contemporary and historical issues in Latin American Anthropology; discussion of current anthropological approaches to studying Latin American social issues in a global context. Topics vary each time offered.
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 523A). (Cross-listed with US LS). (3-0) Cr. 3. Repeatable, maximum of 9 credits. S.
Prereq: ANTHR 201 or ANTHR 306 recommended
Exploration of key contemporary and historical issues in Latin American Anthropology; discussion of current anthropological approaches to studying Latin American social issues in a global context. Topics vary each time offered.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 523B). (Cross-listed with US LS). (3-0) Cr. 3. Repeatable, maximum of 9 credits. S.
Prereq: ANTHR 201 or ANTHR 306 recommended
Exploration of key contemporary and historical issues in Latin American Anthropology; discussion of current anthropological approaches to studying Latin American social issues in a global context. Topics vary each time offered.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 523C). (Cross-listed with US LS). (3-0) Cr. 3. Repeatable, maximum of 9 credits. S.
Prereq: ANTHR 201 or ANTHR 306 recommended
Exploration of key contemporary and historical issues in Latin American Anthropology; discussion of current anthropological approaches to studying Latin American social issues in a global context. Topics vary each time offered.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 523D). (Cross-listed with US LS). (3-0) Cr. 3. Repeatable, maximum of 9 credits. S.
Prereq: ANTHR 201 or ANTHR 306 recommended
Exploration of key contemporary and historical issues in Latin American Anthropology; discussion of current anthropological approaches to studying Latin American social issues in a global context. Topics vary each time offered.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 523E). (Cross-listed with US LS). (3-0) Cr. 3. Repeatable, maximum of 9 credits.
Prereq: ANTHR 201 or ANTHR 306 recommended
Exploration of key contemporary and historical issues in Latin American Anthropology; discussion of current anthropological approaches to studying Latin American social issues in a global context. Topics vary each time offered.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.
(Cross-listed with AF AM). (3-0) Cr. 3.
Prereq: 201 or 306 recommended.
Survey of diverse African culture areas across the continent and globally; local level description and analysis of individuals as members of African communities; regional, national and global scales of identification.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.
(2-2) Cr. 3. Repeatable, maximum of 9 credits. S.
Prereq: ANTHR 308
Identification, analysis, and interpretation of animal bones recovered from archaeological sites, emphasizing taphonomy, paleoecology, and faunal exploitation.
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 532). (Cross-listed with AM IN). (3-0) Cr. 3.
Prereq: ANTHR 201 or ANTHR 306; ANTHR 322 or AM IN 210 recommended
Exploration of key contemporary and historical issues in Native North America; discussion of current anthropological approaches to studying Native North America in a global context. Topics vary each time offered.
Only 9 credits of ANTHR/AM IN 332A, 332B, 332C, 332D may count toward graduation.
Meets U.S. Diversity Requirement
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 532A). (Cross-listed with AM IN). (3-0) Cr. 3.
Prereq: ANTHR 201 or ANTHR 306; ANTHR 322 or AM IN 210 recommended
Exploration of key contemporary and historical issues in Native North America; discussion of current anthropological approaches to studying Native North America in a global context. Topics vary each time offered.
Only 9 credits of ANTHR/AM IN 332A, 332B, 332C, 332D may count toward graduation.
Meets U.S. Diversity Requirement
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 532B). (Cross-listed with AM IN). (3-0) Cr. 3.
Prereq: ANTHR 201 or ANTHR 306; ANTHR 322 or AM IN 210 recommended
Exploration of key contemporary and historical issues in Native North America; discussion of current anthropological approaches to studying Native North America in a global context.
Only 9 credits of ANTHR/AM IN 332A, 332B, 332C, 332D may count toward graduation.
Meets U.S. Diversity Requirement
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 532C). (Cross-listed with AM IN). (3-0) Cr. 3.
Prereq: ANTHR 201 or ANTHR 306; ANTHR 322 or AM IN 210 recommended
Exploration of key contemporary and historical issues in Native North America; discussion of current anthropological approaches to studying Native North America in a global context. Topics vary each time offered.
Only 9 credits of ANTHR/AM IN 332A, 332B, 332C, 332D may count toward graduation.
Meets U.S. Diversity Requirement
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 532D). (Cross-listed with AM IN). (3-0) Cr. 3.
Prereq: ANTHR 201 or ANTHR 306; ANTHR 322 or AM IN 210 recommended
Exploration of key contemporary and historical issues in Native North America; discussion of current anthropological approaches to studying Native North America in a global context. Topics vary each time offered.
Only 9 credits of ANTHR/AM IN 332A, 332B, 332C, 332D may count toward graduation.
Meets U.S. Diversity Requirement
(Cross-listed with HIST). (3-0) Cr. 3.
Examination of material objects made and used by Asian Americans with both historical and contemporary focuses; transnational and interdisciplinary lenses to interpret the material world; contemporary approaches to analysis of artifacts.
Meets U.S. Diversity Requirement
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 536). (3-0) Cr. 3. Alt. F., offered odd-numbered years.
Prereq: ANTHR 201 or ANTHR 306
Cross-cultural analysis of current development practices from an anthropological perspective; focus on international aid, development institutions, agrarian reform, indigenous knowledge, humanitarianism and human rights; introduction to main theories of political and economic anthropology.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 540). (Cross-listed with RELIG). (3-0) Cr. 3. S.
Prereq: ANTHR 201 or ANTHR 306
Survey of global religious belief and practice from an anthropological perspective. Emphasis on myth and ritual, shamanism, magic, witchcraft, beliefs in spirits, conceptions of the soul, mind and body relationships, and healing and therapeutic practices. Discussion of religious response to dramatic political and social change; effects of globalization on religious practice.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.
(Cross-listed with POL S). (3-0) Cr. 3. S.
Prereq: POL S 235, POL S 251, Anthr 210, or ANTHR 230
Humanitarianism as a system of thought and a system of intervention in conflict and post-conflict situations. Role of humanitarian organizations and actors in addressing human suffering caused by conflict or war. Military action as a form of humanitarian intervention.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.
(Cross-listed with CL ST). (3-0) Cr. 3.
Chronological survey of the material culture of the ancient Greece-Roman world and the role of archaeological context in understanding the varied aspects of ancient Greek or Roman culture. Among other topics, economy, architecture, arts and crafts, trade and exchange, religion and burial customs will be explored.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.
(Cross-listed with CL ST). (3-0) Cr. 3.
Bronze Age (Minoan and Mycenaean palatial cultures) and Early Iron Age Greece. (ca 3000-700 BCE). Chronological survey of the material culture of the ancient Greece-Roman world and the role of archaeological context in understanding the varied aspects of ancient Greek or Roman culture. Among other topics, economy, architecture, arts and crafts, trade and exchange, religion and burial customs will be explored.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.
(Cross-listed with CL ST). (3-0) Cr. 3.
Chronological survey of the material culture of the ancient Greece-Roman world and the role of archaeological context in understanding the varied aspects of ancient Greek or Roman culture. Among other topics, economy, architecture, arts and crafts, trade and exchange, religion and burial customs will be explored.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.
(Cross-listed with CL ST). (3-0) Cr. 3.
Chronological survey of the material culture of the ancient Roman world and the role of archaeological context in understanding the varied aspects of ancient Roman culture. Among other topics, economy, architecture, arts and crafts, trade and exchange, religion and burial customs will be explored.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 511). (3-0) Cr. 3. F.
Prereq: ANTHR 201 or ANTHR 306
Theory and methods for conducting ethnographic research in academic and non-academic settings; application of anthropological knowledge to contemporary cultural, political, economic, environmental and spatial issues; development of skills necessary for professional practice as an anthropologist.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 518). (3-0) Cr. 3. F.
Prereq: ANTHR 201 or ANTHR 306 recommended
Cross-cultural study of the impact of globalization, with an emphasis on economic consumption and the movement of goods, ideas, and peoples across cultural and national boundaries.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
Prereq: ANTHR 306
In-depth study of current topics in cultural anthropology, such as recent theoretical trends, new methodologies, or new research on a specific region. Topics vary each time offered. Each section may be taken once for credit up to 9 credits.
No more than 9 credits of ANTHR 419 courses may be applied towards graduation.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
Prereq: ANTHR 306
In-depth study of current topics in cultural anthropology, such as recent theoretical trends, new methodologies, or new research on a specific region. Topics vary each time offered.
No more than 9 credits of ANTHR 419 courses may be applied towards graduation.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
Prereq: ANTHR 306
In-depth study of current topics in cultural anthropology, such as recent theoretical trends, new methodologies, or new research on a specific region. Topics vary each time offered.
No more than 9 credits of ANTHR 419 courses may be applied towards graduation.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
Prereq: ANTHR 306
In-depth study of current topics in cultural anthropology, such as recent theoretical trends, new methodologies, or new research on a specific region. Topics vary each time offered.
No more than 9 credits of ANTHR 419 courses may be applied towards graduation.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
Prereq: ANTHR 306
In-depth study of current topics in cultural anthropology, such as recent theoretical trends, new methodologies, or new research on a specific region. Topics vary each time offered.
No more than 9 credits of ANTHR 419 courses may be applied towards graduation.
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 524). (2-2) Cr. 3. S.
Prereq: ANTHR 202 or ANTHR 307; ANTHR 319 recommended
Comprehensive study of forensic anthropology, a specialized subfield of biological anthropology. Emphasis is placed on personal identifications from extremely fragmentary, comingled, burnt, cremated and incomplete skeletal remains. All parameters of forensic study are included as they pertain to anthropology, including human variation, taphonomy, entomology, archaeology, pathology, epidemiology; genetics and the non-biological forensic disciplines. An appreciation for the wide range of medicolegal and bioethical issues will also be gained.
(2-0) Cr. 2. F.
Prereq: Junior classification in anthropology or permission from the instructor
Instruction and guidance in the development of professional skills needed for success in academic and non-academic anthropological careers. Topics will include strategies for internship and job searches, creating resumes and CVs, composing personal statements and cover letters, and developing contacts and sources.
Offered on a satisfactory-fail basis only.
(Cross-listed with IA LL). Cr. 4. SS.
Nature of cultural and environmental evidence in archaeology and how they are used to model past human behavior and land use; emphasis on Iowa prehistory; basic reconnaissance surveying and excavation techniques.
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 531). Cr. 4-6.
Hands-on training in ethnographic field methods; students will carry out research projects in socio-cultural anthropology, learning a variety of investigative research techniques commonly used in social sciences.
Cr. 2-6. Repeatable, maximum of 6 credits. F.S.SS.
Prereq: Junior or senior standing
Supervised practice in government agencies, museums, and business organizations.
Offered on a satisfactory-fail basis only. Not more than 6 credits of internship experience may count towards the major. No credits in Anthr 434 may be used to satisfy Anthropology core courses for majors or for the Anthropology minor.
Cr. 2-6. Repeatable, maximum of 6 credits. F.S.SS.
Prereq: Junior or senior standing
Supervised practice in government agencies, museums, and business organizations.
Offered on a satisfactory-fail basis only. Not more than 6 credits of internship experience may count towards the major. No credits in Anthr 434 may be used to satisfy Anthropology core courses for majors or for the Anthropology minor.
Cr. 2-6. Repeatable, maximum of 6 credits. F.S.SS.
Prereq: Junior or senior standing
Supervised practice in government agencies, museums, and business organizations.
Offered on a satisfactory-fail basis only. Not more than 6 credits of internship experience may count towards the major. No credits in Anthr 434 may be used to satisfy Anthropology core courses for majors or for the Anthropology minor.
Cr. 2-6. Repeatable, maximum of 6 credits. F.S.SS.
Prereq: Junior or senior standing
Supervised practice in government agencies, museums, and business organizations.
Offered on a satisfactory-fail basis only. Not more than 6 credits of internship experience may count towards the major. No credits in Anthr 434 may be used to satisfy Anthropology core courses for majors or for the Anthropology minor.
Cr. 2-6. Repeatable, maximum of 6 credits. F.S.SS.
Prereq: Junior or senior standing
Supervised practice in government agencies, museums, and business organizations.
Offered on a satisfactory-fail basis only. Not more than 6 credits of internship experience may count towards the major. No credits in Anthr 434 may be used to satisfy Anthropology core courses for majors or for the Anthropology minor.
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 538). Cr. 3. S.
Prereq: ANTHR 202 or ANTHR 307
Primate behavior and ecology in evolutionary perspective: biological and social adaptations of prosimians, monkeys, and apes. Introduction to the Order Primates, basic evolutionary concepts, and techniques of behavioral observation. Focus on theory and methods current in Primatology, including applied conservation biology.
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 544). (Cross-listed with WGS). (3-0) Cr. 3. S.
Prereq: ANTHR 201; ANTHR 306 recommended
Cross-cultural examination of the social construction of genders out of the biological fact of sex. Emphasis on non-western societies. Topics, presented through examination of ethnographic data, will include the range of gender variation, status and roles, the institution of marriage, and symbols of gender valuation.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.
(3-0) Cr. 3. F.
Prereq: ANTHR 306
Survey of the historical foundations of anthropology and its interrelated four sub-fields; key figures in 19th and 20th century anthropology with a focus on major theoretical contributions.
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 582). (3-0) Cr. 3. Repeatable, maximum of 9 credits. F.
Prereq: ANTHR 307
In-depth study of current topics in biological anthropology, such as new fossil specimens, research on the evolution of cognition, the emergence of applied primatology, and the dynamic field of population genetics as each relates to the Order Primates.
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 582A). (3-0) Cr. 3. Repeatable, maximum of 9 credits. F.
Prereq: ANTHR 307
In-depth study of current topics in biological anthropology, such as new fossil specimens, research on the evolution of cognition, the emergence of applied primatology, and the dynamic field of population genetics as each relates to the Order Primates.
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 582B). (3-0) Cr. 3. Repeatable, maximum of 9 credits. F.
Prereq: ANTHR 307
In-depth study of current topics in biological anthropology, such as new fossil specimens, research on the evolution of cognition, the emergence of applied primatology, and the dynamic field of population genetics as each relates to the Order Primates.
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 582C). (3-0) Cr. 3. Repeatable, maximum of 9 credits. F.
Prereq: ANTHR 307
In-depth study of current topics in biological anthropology, such as new fossil specimens, research on the evolution of cognition, the emergence of applied primatology, and the dynamic field of population genetics as each relates to the Order Primates.
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 582D). (3-0) Cr. 3. Repeatable, maximum of 9 credits. F.
Prereq: ANTHR 307
In-depth study of current topics in biological anthropology, such as new fossil specimens, research on the evolution of cognition, the emergence of applied primatology, and the dynamic field of population genetics as each relates to the Order Primates.
Cr. 1-5. Repeatable, maximum of 9 credits.
Prereq: 9 credits in anthropology
No more than 9 credits of Anthr 490 may be counted toward graduation.
Cr. 1-5. Repeatable, maximum of 9 credits.
Prereq: 9 credits in anthropology
No more than 9 credits of Anthr 490 may be counted toward graduation.
Cr. 1-5. Repeatable, maximum of 9 credits.
Prereq: 9 credits in anthropology
No more than 9 credits of Anthr 490 may be counted toward graduation.
Cr. 1-5. Repeatable, maximum of 9 credits.
Prereq: 9 credits in anthropology
No more than 9 credits of Anthr 490 may be counted toward graduation.
(Cross-listed with LING). Cr. 1-5. Repeatable, maximum of 9 credits.
Prereq: 9 credits in anthropology.
No more than 9 credits of Anthr 490 may be counted toward graduation.
Cr. 1-5. Repeatable, maximum of 9 credits.
Prereq: 9 credits in anthropology
No more than 9 credits of Anthr 490 may be counted toward graduation.
(Cross-listed with IA LL, NREM). Cr. 1-6. Repeatable, maximum of 9 credits.
Prereq: 8 credits in biology and permission of instructor
Research opportunities for undergraduate students in the biological sciences.
No more than 9 credits in Biol 490 may be counted toward graduation and of those, only 6 credits may be applied to the major.
Courses primarily for graduate students, open to qualified undergraduates:
(Cross-listed with AGRON, SOC, SUSAG). (3-4) Cr. 3. F.
Prereq: Senior or above classification
Experiential, interdisciplinary examination of Midwestern agricultural and food systems, emphasizing field visits, with some classroom activities. Focus on understanding multiple elements, perspectives (agronomic, economic, ecologic, social, etc.) and scales of operation.
(3-0) Cr. 3. F.
Prereq: 6 credits in anthropology
Survey of historical and current developments in topical and theoretical approaches to sociocultural anthropology. Examination and assessment of controversies; new research directions and theoretical approaches.
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 411). (3-0) Cr. 3. F.
Prereq: ANTHR 201 or ANTHR 306
Theory and methods for conducting ethnographic research in academic and non-academic settings; application of anthropological knowledge to contemporary cultural, political, economic, environmental and spatial issues; development of skills necessary for professional practice as an anthropologist.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 313). (3-0) Cr. 3. S.
Prereq: ANTHR 201 recommended
Comparative and historical overview of the family, marriage and kinship. Examination of cross-cultural differences in the construction and functioning of family and kin relations; role of kinship in structuring individual and collective activities; current critical and theoretical issues in kinship studies, especially integrating work on gender and sexuality.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 315). (3-0) Cr. 3. S.
Prereq: ANTHR 202
Prehistory and early history of North America as reconstructed from archaeological evidence; peopling of the New World; culture- historical sequences of major culture areas; linkages of archaeological traditions with selected ethnohistorically known Native American groups.
Meets U.S. Diversity Requirement
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 418). (3-0) Cr. 3. F.
Prereq: ANTHR 201 or ANTHR 306 recommended
Cross-cultural study of the impact of globalization, with an emphasis on economic consumption and the movement of goods, ideas, and peoples across cultural and national boundaries.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 319). (2-2) Cr. 3. F.
Prereq: ANTHR 307 or college level biology
Comprehensive study of the skeletal anatomy, physiology, genetics, growth, development and population variation of the human skeleton. Applications to forensic anthropology, paleopathology and bioarchaeology are introduced.
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 320). (3-0) Cr. 3. F.
Prereq: ANTHR 202
Prehistoric societies of the Great Plains region of North America, from initial occupation to European contact; emphasis on sociocultural changes, continuities, and adaptations to changing environments using archaeological, ecological, ethnographic information.
Meets U.S. Diversity Requirement
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 321). (3-0) Cr. 3. S.
Prereq: ANTHR 202 recommended
An introduction to archaeological sites from around the world including the Near East, Africa, Europe, Mesoamerica, and North and South America. Emphasis is on the interpretation of material cultural remains in reconstructing past societies.
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 322). (3-0) Cr. 3.
Prereq: ANTHR 201 or AM IN 210
Origin, distribution, and pre-contact life of the indigenous peoples of North America. Survey of culture areas; language families, social and political systems, ecological and economic adaptations, religion and spirituality; impact of European contact; cultural resilience and revitalization in contemporary American Indian life.
Meets U.S. Diversity Requirement
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 323). (3-0) Cr. 3. Repeatable, maximum of 9 credits. S.
Prereq: ANTHR 201 or ANTHR 306 recommended
Exploration of key contemporary and historical issues in Latin American Anthropology; discussion of current anthropological approaches to studying Latin American social issues in a global context. Topics vary each time offered.
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 323A). (3-0) Cr. 3. Repeatable, maximum of 9 credits. S.
Prereq: ANTHR 201 or ANTHR 306 recommended
Exploration of key contemporary and historical issues in Latin American Anthropology; discussion of current anthropological approaches to studying Latin American social issues in a global context. Topics vary each time offered.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 323B). (3-0) Cr. 3. Repeatable, maximum of 9 credits. S.
Prereq: ANTHR 201 or ANTHR 306 recommended
Exploration of key contemporary and historical issues in Latin American Anthropology; discussion of current anthropological approaches to studying Latin American social issues in a global context. Topics vary each time offered.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 323C). (3-0) Cr. 3. Repeatable, maximum of 9 credits. S.
Prereq: ANTHR 201 or ANTHR 306 recommended
Exploration of key contemporary and historical issues in Latin American Anthropology; discussion of current anthropological approaches to studying Latin American social issues in a global context. Topics vary each time offered.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 323D). (3-0) Cr. 3. Repeatable, maximum of 9 credits. S.
Prereq: ANTHR 201 or ANTHR 306 recommended
Exploration of key contemporary and historical issues in Latin American Anthropology; discussion of current anthropological approaches to studying Latin American social issues in a global context. Topics vary each time offered.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 323E). (3-0) Cr. 3. Repeatable, maximum of 9 credits.
Prereq: ANTHR 201 or ANTHR 306 recommended
Exploration of key contemporary and historical issues in Latin American Anthropology; discussion of current anthropological approaches to studying Latin American social issues in a global context. Topics vary each time offered.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 424). (2-2) Cr. 3. S.
Prereq: ANTHR 202 or ANTHR 307; ANTHR 319 recommended
Comprehensive study of forensic anthropology, a specialized subfield of biological anthropology. Emphasis is placed on personal identifications from extremely fragmentary, comingled, burnt, cremated and incomplete skeletal remains. All parameters of forensic study are included as they pertain to anthropology, including human variation, taphonomy, entomology, archaeology, pathology, epidemiology; genetics and the non-biological forensic disciplines. An appreciation for the wide range of medicolegal and bioethical issues will also be gained.
Cr. 3. F.
Prereq: 6 credits in anthropology, permission of instructor
Field training experience in ethnography. Problems emphasizing field studies in the contemporary societies of the world. Focus on techniques of data gathering and analysis.
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 431). Cr. 4-6.
Hands-on training in ethnographic field methods; students will carry out research projects in socio-cultural anthropology, learning a variety of investigative research techniques commonly used in social sciences.
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 332). (Cross-listed with AM IN). (3-0) Cr. 3.
Prereq: ANTHR 201 or ANTHR 306; ANTHR 322 or AM IN 210 recommended
Exploration of key contemporary and historical issues in Native North America; discussion of current anthropological approaches to studying Native North America in a global context. Topics vary each time offered.
Only 9 credits of ANTHR/AM IN 332A, 332B, 332C, 332D may count toward graduation.
Meets U.S. Diversity Requirement
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 332A). (Cross-listed with AM IN). (3-0) Cr. 3.
Prereq: ANTHR 201 or ANTHR 306; ANTHR 322 or AM IN 210 recommended
Exploration of key contemporary and historical issues in Native North America; discussion of current anthropological approaches to studying Native North America in a global context. Topics vary each time offered.
Only 9 credits of ANTHR/AM IN 332A, 332B, 332C, 332D may count toward graduation.
Meets U.S. Diversity Requirement
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 332B). (Cross-listed with AM IN). (3-0) Cr. 3.
Prereq: ANTHR 201 or ANTHR 306; ANTHR 322 or AM IN 210 recommended
Exploration of key contemporary and historical issues in Native North America; discussion of current anthropological approaches to studying Native North America in a global context.
Only 9 credits of ANTHR/AM IN 332A, 332B, 332C, 332D may count toward graduation.
Meets U.S. Diversity Requirement
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 332C). (Cross-listed with AM IN). (3-0) Cr. 3.
Prereq: ANTHR 201 or ANTHR 306; ANTHR 322 or AM IN 210 recommended
Exploration of key contemporary and historical issues in Native North America; discussion of current anthropological approaches to studying Native North America in a global context. Topics vary each time offered.
Only 9 credits of ANTHR/AM IN 332A, 332B, 332C, 332D may count toward graduation.
Meets U.S. Diversity Requirement
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 332D). (Cross-listed with AM IN). (3-0) Cr. 3.
Prereq: ANTHR 201 or ANTHR 306; ANTHR 322 or AM IN 210 recommended
Exploration of key contemporary and historical issues in Native North America; discussion of current anthropological approaches to studying Native North America in a global context. Topics vary each time offered.
Only 9 credits of ANTHR/AM IN 332A, 332B, 332C, 332D may count toward graduation.
Meets U.S. Diversity Requirement
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 336). (3-0) Cr. 3. Alt. F., offered odd-numbered years.
Prereq: ANTHR 201 or ANTHR 306
Cross-cultural analysis of current development practices from an anthropological perspective; focus on international aid, development institutions, agrarian reform, indigenous knowledge, humanitarianism and human rights; introduction to main theories of political and economic anthropology.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 438). Cr. 3. S.
Prereq: ANTHR 202 or ANTHR 307
Primate behavior and ecology in evolutionary perspective: biological and social adaptations of prosimians, monkeys, and apes. Introduction to the Order Primates, basic evolutionary concepts, and techniques of behavioral observation. Focus on theory and methods current in Primatology, including applied conservation biology.
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 340). (Cross-listed with RELIG). (3-0) Cr. 3. S.
Prereq: ANTHR 201 or ANTHR 306
Survey of global religious belief and practice from an anthropological perspective. Emphasis on myth and ritual, shamanism, magic, witchcraft, beliefs in spirits, conceptions of the soul, mind and body relationships, and healing and therapeutic practices. Discussion of religious response to dramatic political and social change; effects of globalization on religious practice.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.
(1-0) Cr. 1. Repeatable. S.
Prereq: One 200-level science course or graduate classification
Seminars by professional criminalists, research scientists, Certificate students, and educators. Emphasis on opportunities for research and development, citizen involvement, and educational outreach related to forensic science. Weekly report required.
(1-0) Cr. 1. S.
Prereq: Enrollment in the Graduate Certificate in Forensic Sciences
Research topic approved by course instructor. Written and oral reports required. Oral report given in forensics seminar, Chem 540.
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 444). (Cross-listed with WGS). (3-0) Cr. 3. S.
Prereq: ANTHR 201; ANTHR 306 recommended
Cross-cultural examination of the social construction of genders out of the biological fact of sex. Emphasis on non-western societies. Topics, presented through examination of ethnographic data, will include the range of gender variation, status and roles, the institution of marriage, and symbols of gender valuation.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 482). (3-0) Cr. 3. Repeatable, maximum of 9 credits. F.
Prereq: ANTHR 307
In-depth study of current topics in biological anthropology, such as new fossil specimens, research on the evolution of cognition, the emergence of applied primatology, and the dynamic field of population genetics as each relates to the Order Primates.
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 482A). (3-0) Cr. 3. Repeatable, maximum of 9 credits. F.
Prereq: ANTHR 307
In-depth study of current topics in biological anthropology, such as new fossil specimens, research on the evolution of cognition, the emergence of applied primatology, and the dynamic field of population genetics as each relates to the Order Primates.
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 482B). (3-0) Cr. 3. Repeatable, maximum of 9 credits. F.
Prereq: ANTHR 307
In-depth study of current topics in biological anthropology, such as new fossil specimens, research on the evolution of cognition, the emergence of applied primatology, and the dynamic field of population genetics as each relates to the Order Primates.
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 482C). (3-0) Cr. 3. Repeatable, maximum of 9 credits. F.
Prereq: ANTHR 307
In-depth study of current topics in biological anthropology, such as new fossil specimens, research on the evolution of cognition, the emergence of applied primatology, and the dynamic field of population genetics as each relates to the Order Primates.
(Dual-listed with ANTHR 482D). (3-0) Cr. 3. Repeatable, maximum of 9 credits. F.
Prereq: ANTHR 307
In-depth study of current topics in biological anthropology, such as new fossil specimens, research on the evolution of cognition, the emergence of applied primatology, and the dynamic field of population genetics as each relates to the Order Primates.
(Cross-listed with A ECL, EEOB, IA LL). Cr. 1-4. Repeatable. SS.
Prereq: Graduate classification and permission of instructor
(Cross-listed with A ECL, EEOB, IA LL). Cr. 1-4. Repeatable. SS.
Prereq: Graduate classification and permission of instructor
(1-0) Cr. 1. F.
Prereq: Admission to the Anthropology Graduate Program
Introduction to the Anthropology program, including the requirements for successful degree completion, department administrative procedures, ethics in anthropology and current trends in the four subfields of anthropology. Required of graduate students.
Offered on a satisfactory-fail basis only.
Courses for graduate students:
(Cross-listed with A B E, AGRON, SOC, SUSAG). (3-0) Cr. 3. F.
Prereq: Graduate classification, permission of instructor
Historical, biophysical, socioeconomic, and ethical dimensions of agricultural sustainability. Strategies for evaluating existing and emerging agricultural systems in terms of the core concepts of sustainability and their theoretical contexts.
Cr. arr. Repeatable.
(Cross-listed with A ECL, EEOB, GDCB, IA LL). Cr. arr. Repeatable.