Hey everyone! I'm really interested in majoring in anthropology, and I've heard great things about Johns Hopkins University. Can anyone give me some insights into the anthropology program there? Like how are the classes, professors, and research opportunities?
Hello! The anthropology program at Johns Hopkins University is well-regarded, and students can pursue a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in the discipline. The major is designed to offer a comprehensive and diverse education in anthropology, by covering topics like cultural anthropology, archaeological anthropology, biological anthropology, and linguistic anthropology.
Classes offered within the program are diverse and cover a wide range of topics. You can expect to take courses such as Introduction to Archaeology, Human Evolution, Anthropology of Global Health, and Language, Culture, and Society, among others. The small class sizes often lead to close interactions with professors, who are renowned for their expertise, approachability, and dedication to their students.
Research opportunities are abundant, and Johns Hopkins encourages undergraduate students to engage in hands-on research. You can get involved in faculty-led projects or initiate your own research in collaboration with faculty members. You can sometimes earn course credit or even receive funding for your research work.
Another great opportunity for students in the Department of Anthropology is the Honors Thesis, which allows you to undertake an independent research project under faculty supervision. This project culminates in a written thesis and an oral presentation, and the process as a whole allows you to gain invaluable experience in conducting, analyzing, and presenting your research.
Overall, the anthropology program at Johns Hopkins provides a strong foundation for future research or careers in anthropology, by offering access to exceptional faculty, valuable research opportunities, and a comprehensive and interdisciplinary course structure. Of course, it's always a good idea to look into other highly-regarded anthropology programs to compare offerings and find the best fit for you - don't forget to also factor in overall campus culture, to ensure you end up at a school where you'll thrive personally as well as academically.
If you decide Johns Hopkins is the place for you, and are looking for tips on how to maximize your chances of acceptance, check out this blog post from CollegeVine, which breaks down how to tackle their school-specific supplemental essay(s): https://blog.collegevine.com/how-to-write-the-johns-hopkins-university-essays. After all, Johns Hopkins is a highly selective institution, and the essays are often just the thing that distinguish one talented applicant from another.
Best of luck with your future anthropological pursuits!
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