Undergraduate Program

Overview | Anthropology Major & Minor | Submatriculation | Undergraduate Handbook | Course Information | Undergraduate Chair Contact Information | Related Links

What is anthropology ?
Anthropology is broadly defined as the study of human diversity. As a discipline, it is comprised of four distinct subfields:

  • Cultural anthropology, concerned with existing societies;
  • Linguistic anthropology, dealing with variability in language and the role of language in culture;
  • Archaeology, studying past societies through material and written remains; and
  • Bio-physical anthropology, focusing on human evolution and the interaction between culture and human biological variability.

Introduction from Dr. Greg Urban
"The Anthropology Department at Penn is embarking upon an exciting new experiment. We are developing an innovative undergraduate program around the theme of "Anthropology and the Modern World." Too many people think of anthropology as only about digging up the remains of an ancient past or traveling to far-away places to study exotic peoples and customs. Yes, we do all that, but we do much, much more.

Did you know, for instance, that the Intel Corporation has hired a team of anthropologists to conduct research in the area of "design ethnography," figuring out how people use electronic equipment in their daily lives in order to more intelligently design new technologies? Corporations today are discovering the relevance of anthropology to doing business, and this is one area in which you can be in the vanguard." Read the full introduction.

Anthropology Major & Minor
U. Penn's Department of Anthropology emphasizes the integration of the discipline's four subfields, called a four-field approach, although here cultural and linguistic anthropology are considered a single unit. Following this philosophy, the Anthropology major is designed to encourage students to experience the full breadth of the discipline while giving flexibility to design a course of study best suited to their own needs. The program includes small seminars and individual research in the laboratory and in the field. Individual advising and supervising are emphasized. More information about the Anthropology Major and Minor Requirements.

Study Abroad Programs, Internships and Field Studies
Studying abroad is one of the most exciting opportunities available to you as a U. Penn student. Study is encouraged - both on campus and abroad - which enhances your understanding of the world's peoples, economies, and environments and their interdependence. Announcements of opportunities are circulated via the Anthropology email listserv. For additional information, visit the Office of International Programs.

Submatriculation
Submatriculation is a program allowing undergraduate seniors to take graduate courses to obtain both undergraduate and graduate (MA or MSc) degrees simultaneously. Read more...

Undergraduate Handbook
The Undergraduate Handbook contains a wealth of information on the Undergraduate Program. Topics covered are: How To Declare the Major, Major Diagram, The Human Biology Concentration, Minor Requirements, Graduating with Honors, Advance Registration, Subscribing to the Listserv, Advising, About the Library, Independent Study and Research Programs, Transfers of Credit, Studies Abroad and Field Site Programs, Submatriculation, the Undergraduate Advisory Board, Professor Information, Letters of Recommendation and information on the University Museum.
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Undergraduate Chair Contact Information
For information about requirements, transfer credits, or other advising issues, please contact the Undergraduate Chair, Clark L. Erickson. Appointments should be made through Charlene Y. Kwon in the department office, Room 323, either in person or by phone at 215-746-0418.

Related Links

New: If you are looking for descriptions of Anthropology courses, details can be found on the Course Information page.