Undergraduate Studies
in Anthropology

The multifaceted nature of anthropology, which integrates into a single discipline the social sciences, the natural sciences, and humanistic studies, uniquely combines skills and insights that will prove essential in many contemporary settings. Students will complete courses in cultural anthropology, physical anthropology, archaeology, and anthropological linguistics.

Graduate Studies
in Anthropology

Anthropology is an inquiry into the nature of humanity. The theme of all anthropological investigation is the examination of human biological and cultural diversity both past and present. This is an expansive definition for a field of study; yet among anthropology's greatest contributions to knowledge is the holistic perspective with which it approaches its subject matter.

The graduate program at Southern Miss emphasizes exposure to the four fields of anthropology as a means of preparing for further graduate study, applying anthropological principles in the public service or government sectors, or teaching at the undergraduate level. At the same time we expect students to develop an in-depth grounding in their subfield of interest, from theoretical, methodological, and practice standpoints. We also encourage development of a personal research interest as quickly as possible, ultimately expressed as thesis research. We encourage students to explore topics about which the faculty can provide useful input either through coursework, directed reading, or personal expertise. Further information on admissions and requirements to the MA program please see the Anthropology M.A. page.

We also offer two dual-master's programs designed to train graduates for employment in the public sector. The first, which offers a dual-master's with History, will focus on Applied Cultural Heritage Studies, and will be of interest to those wishing to work in museums, historic homes, and for goverment agencies (such as the National Park Service). The second, which offers a dual-master's with Library Science, will be of interest to those wishing to work in academic libraries and archival settings. In pursuing their degrees, students will take coursework in both departments and write a thesis in one department. Further information may be found at the following links: Applied Cultural Heritage Studies and MSLIS/MA in Anthropology.

Currently, the program has approximately 23 full-time graduate students, and seven master's degrees were awarded during AY 2008-2009.

Graduate Handbook (pdf)