UMass Amherst Anthropology Program - How is it?

Hi everyone! I'm thinking of majoring in Anthropology at UMass Amherst. Can anyone who's in the program or familiar with it share their thoughts about it? Like the coursework, research opportunities, and overall experience. Thanks!

Hi there! UMass Amherst has a solid Anthropology program, and I'm happy to share some information on what you can expect.

Coursework: The curriculum covers broad subfields such as cultural anthropology, archaeology, biological anthropology, and linguistic anthropology. You'll take introductory courses in each subfield before diving into more specialized topics in your area of interest. Popular upper-level courses include medical anthropology, environmental anthropology, and courses focused on regional studies (like Latin America or the ancient Mediterranean). The department also encourages students to take courses related to anthropology in other departments, resulting in a multidisciplinary approach to your studies.

Research Opportunities: UMass Amherst offers several research opportunities within the Anthropology department. Undergraduates can work as research assistants for faculty members or on various ongoing projects in the department. While specific research opportunities can vary year-to-year, some possible research areas include human evolution, primate socioecology, and anthropological genetics. Additionally, you can pursue research funding through university programs like the UMass Undergraduate Research Grant or the Commonwealth Honors College Research Grant.

Overall Experience: Students in the program generally report a positive experience, with highlights including close relationships with faculty, study abroad opportunities tailored to Anthropology majors, and involvement in department events. Faculty members at UMass Amherst are knowledgeable and approachable, with many being experts in their fields. They're often eager to engage with students, both in and outside of class, offering guidance on coursework, research, and career prospects.

To get the most out of your experience, it's wise to be proactive about seeking out opportunities and getting involved in the department. This includes attending talks, joining the Anthropology Club, or taking part in local archaeological digs and summer field schools.

Good luck with your decision, and I hope this helps!