Dec 11, 2024  
2024-25 Western Washington University Catalog 
    
2024-25 Western Washington University Catalog

Anthropology/Social Studies, BA

Location(s): WWU - Bellingham


Return to {$returnto_text} Return to: College of Humanities and Social Sciences

Department of Anthropology, College of Humanities and Social Sciences.

87-91 Credits

Introduction

Anthropology explores what it means to be human and encompass the scientific study of diversity as well as similarities of all cultures of the world, past as well as present. Its scope includes human physical development, adaptation to vastly different environments, and creative expressions of meaning and belonging. The cross-cultural approach of Anthropology provides an inclusive and holistic framework for understanding all facets of humanity.

The Anthropology Department provides training in four sub-disciplines: Cultural Anthropology, Archaeology, Physical Anthropology and Anthropological Linguistics. Using ethnographic, comparative and ethnohistorical methods and working in partnerships with communities and peoples worldwide, anthropologists contribute in multiple ways to addressing contemporary human problems and highlighting evidence that points to both past and potential solutions.

Why Consider an Anthropology/Social Studies Major?

Do you find human diversity and various cultures fascinating? Do you appreciate the benefits of examining topics from multiple perspectives and value a holistic approach to learning? Do you prefer a holistic style of learning? Do you want to know why as well as how? Are you fascinated by human diversity? Are you enthusiastic and open-minded? If you are also excited about transmitting that enthusiasm and understanding to others, a major in Anthropology/Social Studies may be for you. Students earning a degree in Anthropology/Social Studies will be able to apply their knowledge and experience to a variety of careers locally and globally, particularly in settings for learning and teaching such as schools and learning across the life span.

To receive a recommendation for state of Washington certification, students must complete the teacher certification program, including the content methods course SEC 426, offered by the Department of Secondary Education, as a part of the undergraduate Bachelor of Arts degree, or as a post-baccalaureate program, or as a part of the Master’s in Teaching degree. See the Secondary Education  section of this catalog for program admission, completion, and teacher certification requirements. Completion of this combined major leads to an endorsement in social studies.

 Contact Information

Department Chair
Todd A. Koetje
Arntzen Hall 322
360-650-4791
tkoetje@wwu.edu

Department Manager
Mariah Perez
Anthropology Office
Arntzen Hall 315
360-650-2229
perezm21@wwu.edu

Secondary Education Information
Janna Cecka
Miller Hall 401C
360-650-3347
wce.wwu.edu/sec/secondary-education

Teacher Education Admission
Miller Hall 254F
360-650-6161
wce.wwu.edu/admissions/contact

 Sample Careers

Teacher | Education

 Major/Career Resources

careercenter.wwu.edu/connectmajorcareer

How to Declare (Admission and Declaration Process):

Declare your Anthropology/Social Studies, BA major as soon as you discover you are interested. Contact the Anthropology Department or visit its website at chss.wwu.edu/anthropology for details.

Advising Tips: Students are advised to declare their major early in their academic career. Anthropology advisors will provide information about the program, help develop a plan of study and answer any questions.

Grade Requirements

A grade of C- or better is required for a student’s major or minor courses, and supporting courses for majors and minors. Courses required for a state teaching endorsement must be completed with a grade of C (2.0) or better.

Requirements


Return to {$returnto_text} Return to: College of Humanities and Social Sciences