Anthropology is the study of humans, past and present. To understand the full sweep and complexity of cultures across all of human history, anthropology draws and builds upon knowledge from the social and biological sciences as well as the humanities and physical sciences. A central concern of anthropologists is the application of knowledge to the solution of human problems.
—American Anthropological Association
The Luther College anthropology program utilizes a four-field approach that includes attention to cultural anthropology, archaeology, bioanthropology, and linguistic anthropology. The curriculum engages the larger discipline’s goals through the traditional classroom environment as well as through a range of learning opportunities beyond the classroom. The program is characterized by:
Anthropology has opened my eyes and made me think beyond my own culture. The courses I have taken in anthropology have forced me to construct new ideas about humanity, culture, and broaden my overall worldview. No matter your major, courses in anthropology are useful and applicable.
— Allura Lothary '16
In my time as an anthropology major, I've had the opportunity to gain invaluable insight towards the understanding of cultures and our increasingly complex globalized world. What has really captivated me are the incredibly friendly and knowledgeable faculty, who can become amazing mentors and friends during your time at Luther.
— Jorge López '16
See our alumni profiles for more information.