How to identify top anthropology programs?

I'm interested in pursuing anthropology in college, but I'm having a hard time finding comprehensive resources about top programs. How can I evaluate which schools offer the best programs? What should I look for in an anthropology program?

Identifying top programs for your intended major can be a multi-faceted process, especially for anthropology. Here are some pointers to assist your search:

1. Faculty Research Interests: Does the school have professors who specialize in the branch of anthropology that interests you most? Anthropology often breaks down into four key subfields - biological/physical, archaeology, cultural/social, and linguistic. If you're particularly drawn to a subfield (for instance, biological anthropology to learn more about human evolution), it'd be advantageous to be in a program with faculty members who specialize in that area.

2. Curriculum: Investigate the specific courses offered. You’d want a well-rounded and wide-ranging curriculum that covers various facets of anthropology and allows for specialization later. You could also look for a mix of theoretical and applied coursework.

3. Research Opportunities: The best anthropology programs usually offer robust research opportunities like field studies, ethnographic research, or archaeological digs. Look for access to labs, research centers, or museums associated with the school.

4. Graduates Outcome: Check where graduates of the program go. Do they get accepted into reputable anthropology graduate programs? Do they work for organizations you admire? Do they conduct research professionally?

5. Ranking: Use reputable ranking systems as a starting point, such as U.S. News & World Report rankings. However, take these with a grain of salt - rankings are just one data point and don't capture everything about what makes an anthropology program good for you personally.

6. Location: Depending on your interests in anthropology, the location of the school can provide unique opportunities. For example, a school located near indigenous communities might offer special insights for cultural anthropology. Similarly, schools near historical sites might provide archaeological research opportunities.

Remember, different programs might excel in different areas of anthropology, so it depends on your particular interests in this field. Finding a suitable fit is just as important as finding a top-ranked program. Consider reaching out to current students or professors in the programs you're considering for a firsthand perspective.