Hands-on learning
The anthropology program at Missouri State offers a wide range of opportunities to
gain first-hand experience and acquire practical skills outside the classroom. Although
these experiences are not required, they are strongly recommended.
Lab classes
Anthropology offers laboratory courses in lithics, zooarchaeology, bioanthropology
and historical materials for advanced students. In addition, ANT 505 Ethnohistory
and ANT 510 Ethnographic Research Methods are built around field research projects
in cultural anthropology.
Archaeological field schools
The anthropology program offers one or more archaeological field schools for undergraduate students every year. In addition to 3-6 hours of course credit
as ANT 351, the field school gives you an opportunity to acquire the basic skills
required of a field archaeologist and to see if this is a career for you.
Education abroad
Anthropology offers regular opportunities for students to gain cross-cultural experience
either in a Education Abroad tour or by accompanying faculty members on research projects abroad. Students earn credit
in ANT 490.
Internships
The anthropology program offers credit to students who complete an internship with
a private, nonprofit or government agency. An internship will provide you with valuable work experience, develop your professional skills
and allow you to explore a career pertaining to anthropology.
Directed research projects
Advanced anthropology students can pursue independent study projects or work one-on-one
with a faculty mentor in directed readings and directed research courses. These students
often present the findings of their research at student and professional conferences.
Service-learning
The mission of Missouri State is public affairs. Therefore, we promote the idea of
civic engagement, particularly through service-learning opportunities tied to anthropology
courses. In service-learning, students gain credit by working for local organizations in ways that are relevant
to their major.
Student organizations
The Anthropology Club is a registered student organization that meets regularly, invites guest speakers,
organizes trips and events, and conducts fundraising activities.
Lambda Alpha is a national honorary society for anthropology majors.