Course Descriptions
ANTH 110 Cultural Anthropology (3 units)
This course is an introduction to the cultures and customs of human groups throughout the world with the aim of understanding how cultures function based on their world views. Topics include subsistence methods, religious belief systems, linguistics, economics, political organization, kinship, gender, sex, marriage and family systems, social stratification, and globalization. This course stresses anthropological concepts such as culture, cultural relativism, holism, ethnocentrism, cross-cultural comparisons, world view, culture change, and fieldwork.
ANTH 125 Biological Anthropology (3 units)
This course covers the concepts, methods and theory of biological evolution and its application to the human species. There is a specific focus on molecular, Mendelian and population genetics mechanisms of evolution, primatology, paleoanthropology, biocultural adaptations, human variation, and current bioethical issues. The scientific method serves as the foundation of the course.
ANTH 126 Biological Anthropology Laboratory (1 units)
Laboratory course in which the students apply and practice the scientific methods, techniques and procedures used by physical anthropologists to understand human evolution, non-human primates and human variation. Students gain practical experience and a deeper understanding by participating in lab exercises, activities and experiments that explore human evolution, osteology, forensics, genetics, modern human variation, primate anatomy and behavior. Field trips may be required.
ANTH 200 Ethnographic Film (3 units)
Introduction to the use of film and photography by anthropologists as a research tool through viewing films depicting different cultures from around the world. Students are expected to analyze a variety of peoples from various ethnic groups in differing cultural contexts as to their contributions to the world community without prejudice or ethnocentrism.
ANTH 351 Archaeology (3 units)
Introduction to the theories, concepts, and methods employed by the archaeologist in the study of human history and pre-history. The diverse evolution of cultural systems are emphasized. The challenges and achievements of non-literate and traditional cultures, diverse communities, and social classes over time are also explored. Field trips may be required.