Welcome to the Department of Anthropology

Anthropology is the study of humankind. Anthropologists employ prehistoric, historic, and contemporary perspectives to explore the culture, evolution, behavior, beliefs and social organization of peoples around the world. The discipline offers a comparative understanding of lifeways around the planet and seeks strategies for improving humans' quality of life in a global context.

The University of Memphis offers a Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Arts in Anthropology. Students with diverse interests will find anthropology to be a stimulating major or minor. Anthropology courses also provide the perfect elective for students in other fields, such as international business, economics, sociology, communication, history, or education.

Special programs available to undergraduate and graduate students include anthropological activities at the C.H. Nash Museum at Chucalissa; opportunities to participate in faculty research in archaeology, urban communities, museum studies, and healthcare in the Mid-South; and internship experience in local museums and urban and medical agencies. The department also participates in the Honors Program, which challenges and recognizes exceptional undergraduate students.