Why Study Anthropology?

“Anthropology is the science which tells us that people are the same the whole world over – except when they are different.”
—Nancy Banks-Smith

What does it mean to major in anthropology?

Imagine a window which looks into another world. When you look through that window you understand your own world better. Anthropology is that window. Anthropologists study the concept of culture and its relationship to human life in different times and places. They study other societies to gain a clearer perspective on our own. They study the past to help interpret the present. Anthropologists also study our ancient past and human origins, particularly through the subfield of archaeology, which recovers and analyzes material and physical remains.Students who major in anthropology are curious about other cultures and other times. They are inquisitive and enjoy solving puzzles. Anthropology majors gain a broad knowledge of other cultures as well as skills in observation, analysis, research, critical thinking, writing, and dealing with people from all cultures.

Why is the University of Mississippi a good place to study anthropology?

The department presents a balanced four-field approach to the subject of culture. Classes are taught by faculty members who are well-recognized in their areas of specialization. On-campus facilities include a geophysics lab and an archaeology lab where students can learn such skills as forensic osteology and ceramic analysis. The department offers summer field schools in archaeology (Virginia and Mississippi) and cultural anthropology (Bolivia), where students gain hands-on experience in excavation techniques and ethnography, respectively.

What can UM anthropology majors do after graduation?

Ecotourism, field archaeology, impact assessment, information research, museum technology, immigration inspection, historical preservation, bilingual education, international business, national park interpretation, documentary filmmaking, genetics counseling, education, management, energy resources, medicine, architecture, foreign service, travel industry, construction, contracting, law, library sciences, nursing, real estate.

Read this BROCHURE to learn more!

Whom should I contact to learn more about majoring in anthropology?

Jeffrey T. Jackson
Chair of the Department of Sociology and Anthropology
Professor of Sociology
Ph.D, University of Texas
Lamar Hall 509  |  662-915-5230
jacksonj@olemiss.edu