Anthropology: General Anthropology, BA
Anthropology is the global social science. It is the study of the human condition everywhere; its cultural, linguistic, and biological diversity; and how it evolved and developed from the prehistoric past into the globalizing present. Anthropology is an interdisciplinary 14 credit major that intersects with programs and departments across the University. Students may major in anthropology as a whole (General Anthropology), or choose to concentrate in Biological Anthropology, Archaeology, Cultural and Linguistic Anthropology, or specialize in two thematic concentrations: Medical Anthropology and Environmental Anthropology.
General Anthropology majors study all four anthropology sub-fields, acquiring an introduction to the full range of anthropological research. Students are required to take courses in Biological Anthropology, Archaeology, Cultural and Linguistic Anthropology, and Medical Anthropology.
The minimum total course units for graduation in this major is 34. Double majors may entail more course units.
For more information: https://www.sas.upenn.edu/anthropology/
| Code | Title | Course Units |
|---|---|---|
| College General Education Requirements and Free Electives | ||
| Foundational Approaches + Sectors1 + Free Electives | 20 | |
| Major Requirements | ||
| Block I: Introductory Courses | ||
| ANTH 0020 | Anthropology, Race, and the Making of the Modern World | 1 |
| or ANTH 0040 | The Modern World and Its Cultural Background | |
| ANTH 0050 | Great Transformations | 1 |
| or ANTH 1480 | Food and Fire: Archaeology in the Laboratory | |
| ANTH 0030 | Human Origins, Evolution and Diversity | 1 |
| Block II | ||
| Select 1 Archaeology Courses: | 1 | |
| Select 1 Biological Anthropology Courses: | 1 | |
| Select 1 Cultural and Linguistic Anthropology: | 1 | |
| Select 4 course units in Anthropology: | 4 | |
Attribute AAAR - Archeology; Attribute AACL - Cultural and Linguistic; Attribute AABI - Biological Anthropology; Attribute AAEA - Environmental; AAMA - Medical Anthropology | ||
| Select 3 Anthropology or Anthropology-related courses in another department | 3 | |
See Footnote 2 | ||
| Capstone Seminar | ||
| ANTH 4000 | Research Seminar in Anthropology | 1 |
| Total Course Units | 34 | |
- 1
You may count no more than one course toward both a Major and a Sector requirement. For Exceptions, check the Policy Statement.
- 2
Up to three non-ANTH courses with anthropological content may be requested. All non-ANTH courses must be approved by the Undergraduate Program Chair.
Honors
Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.5 in the Major and write a senior thesis.
The degree and major requirements displayed are intended as a guide for students entering in the Fall of 2024 and later. Students should consult with their academic program regarding final certifications and requirements for graduation.