Southern Methodist University anthropology major

Anyone majoring in anthropology at Southern Methodist University? I'm considering applying and would love to hear from current or former students about the program. What are the professors like, the coursework, research opportunities, and internships available? Thanks in advance!

Hi there! I'm not a current student or alumni, but I can provide some information about the anthropology program at Southern Methodist University (SMU). SMU offers both undergraduate and graduate degrees in anthropology, with a strong emphasis on hands-on experiences and research.

Professors at SMU are regarded as knowledgeable and approachable, and are known for offering personalized guidance to their students, on personal and career matters as well as academic ones. The department features instructors with diverse research interests, in areas like cultural anthropology, archaeology, and linguistics. This range of expertise allows you to engage with various fields within anthropology and select courses that align with your specific interests.

Coursework in the anthropology program is designed to introduce you to fundamental concepts and theories, as well as a variety of research methods within the discipline. As you progress through your studies, you'll have the opportunity to take more specialized courses that align with your chosen sub-field of anthropology. Some common electives focus on topics like medical anthropology, human evolution, forensic anthropology, and art and culture.

Regarding research opportunities, SMU emphasizes hands-on experiences and offers multiple options for students. Undergraduate students can conduct their own research on topics like archaeology, human biology, and geographic information systems. Students can also work with faculty members on their research projects or collaborate on the development of a research project tailored to their interests.

In terms of internships, SMU encourages students to take part in internships or fieldwork experiences to gain valuable, real-world experience in anthropology. For example, the department offers internships through the SMU-in-Taos program, where students can work on archaeological excavation projects. Students can also work with faculty members to explore opportunities with local museums, non-profit organizations, and other institutions that align with their interests.

Overall, the anthropology program at SMU offers a comprehensive and diverse curriculum, research opportunities, and internships that prepare you for a career in anthropology or further studies in a related field. If you have more questions, don't hesitate to reach out to the anthropology department at SMU for additional information and tailored advice.

Finally, if you do end up applying to SMU 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 essays: https://blog.collegevine.com/how-to-write-the-southern-methodist-university-essays. Good luck with your college applications, and future endeavors in the fascinating field of anthropology!