Catalog - Course Descriptions

Cultures form the basis for human experience. Anthropology is the student of human diversity and cultural universals by examining worldviews of peoples and the areas where they live, from international and interdisciplinary perspectives. You will make a comparative study of past and present human societies and cultures and you will apply theories and practices of anthropology from field research. You will learn by doing and will express your skills and knowlede from practical experience, involvement, and investigation.

When human skeletal remains are discovered, the forensic anthropologist looks for the skull and lower jaw, especially the teeth, to help identify the person. Forensic anthropologists learn to read the bones and assemble the person's biological profile to determine cause of death. You will compare human biological diversity and commonalities and will examine the broad field of forensic anthropology from an international and interdisciplinary perspective. You will practice crime scene investigation, assessment, excavation, mapping, and documentation. You will learn to apply anthropological theories and methods to forensic work significant to the criminal justice system and will engage in using the theories and practices of forensic work in field research and experiential learning, involvement, and investigation. You will also gain practical, analytical, and interpretive skills in forensic archeology for training in discipline skills to pursue careers in Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) and Forensic Archeology. Forensic Anthropology is a significant element in efforts to control crime and, at the same time, maintain a high quality of justice. The course is particulary valuable for students in criminal justice, anthropology, history, and social science education, while providing an important knowledge base for other disciplies and areas of study. This disciplined experience will complement and enhance your academic program of study as well as influence your own life.