KU Anthropology

Hey folks, I'm thinking about majoring in anthropology at the University of Kansas and wanted to get a better understanding of the program. Can any current or former students give some insights on the quality of the anthropology program, professors, and research opportunities at KU? Thanks in advance!

Hey there! While I'm not a current or former student at the University of Kansas (KU), I can offer you some information on the anthropology program that may be helpful.

First, the anthropology program at KU is well-regarded and offers both B.A. and B.G.S. degrees in addition to a minor in anthropology. A key advantage of the program is its focus on four main subfields: cultural anthropology, linguistic anthropology, archaeology, and biological anthropology. This ensures that you have a comprehensive understanding of the various areas within the discipline and can help you specialize in a particular subfield if you wish.

The faculty is made up of experienced, knowledgeable professors who conduct research in various regions, such as Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas. Their research interests include topics like the history of food and cuisine, household archaeology, culture and cognition, and more. Many students have found the professors to be approachable, supportive, and engaging in their classes.

In terms of research opportunities, KU is quite active in this area. The anthropology program encourages students to get involved in research early on, which can provide valuable experience and help you further explore your interests. This can be through independent study projects, work on faculty research, or participation in field schools and archaeological digs.

Additionally, there are several labs and facilities on campus that can be utilized for research purposes, such as the Archaeological Research Center, Biological Anthropology and Bioarchaeology Lab, and the Ethnographic Research Lab.

Also, KU offers the opportunity to join the Anthropology Club, which can help you connect with fellow students who share similar interests while providing networking opportunities and supporting career development.

Overall, the anthropology program at KU appears to be strong, with dedicated professors, a broad range of courses, and various research opportunities. Of course, the best way to know if the program is right for you is to reach out to current students and visit the campus if possible. Good luck in your college search!