Anthropology

Anthropology is devoted to the study of human cultural diversity through time and around the world. Its cross-cultural approach helps students not only appreciate diversity, but reflect back on the unstated assumptions of their own cultures. By making the foreign familiar, and the familiar foreign, anthropology helps us make sense of the human condition.

But diversity is not fixed. It is ever changing, always in flux. Anthropology explores cultural contact, diffusion, transformation and resilience in a world in which connections are increasing at a rapid pace.

The Department of Anthropology at Mount Holyoke invites students to explore cultures and connections. Faculty members are committed to helping students better understand the world even as global processes grow increasingly complicated and new forms of cultural identity evolve.

Majors learn how to use theories and methodologies to challenge assumptions and test hypotheses. Along with developing advanced research skills, students have opportunities for fieldwork, internships, and independent studies.

Anthropology provides a solid base for a range of careers, including education, international affairs, museum work, law, medicine, public administration, public health, rural and urban planning, and social work.

Department Chair:  Joshua Roth, Professor of Anthropology