As one of the largest undergraduate-only anthropology departments in the United States, we embrace a comparative and holistic approach to studying the human experience. Through the anthropological perspective, we delve into the origins and meaning of physical and cultural diversity in the world, spanning across the past, present, and future.
Our program in anthropology offers a unique opportunity to comprehend global affairs and address societal challenges within the broader context of the human experience. Cultural anthropologists within our department explore the practices, beliefs, and identities of individuals, both within and beyond the United States. Topics such as power, inequality, and social praxis are central to our investigations.
Archaeologists in our program specialize in unraveling the material culture of past societies, reconstructing their traditions and practices. By understanding the past, we gain valuable insights that aid our comprehension of the present. Biological anthropologists, on the other hand, focus on primate evolution, behavioral ecology, human biological variation, biocultural adaptations, bioarchaeology, and human paleontology. Together, we strive to unravel the diverse range of human societies, both past and present.
Why study anthropology? This question lies at the heart of our program. By choosing to study anthropology, you embark on a journey of exploration and understanding, equipping yourself with invaluable skills and knowledge. Through engaging coursework, immersive field experiences, and collaborative research opportunities, you'll develop a profound appreciation for the intricacies of human societies, past and present. Join us as we unravel the tapestry of human diversity and contribute to finding meaningful solutions to real-world problems.
News & Events

Ella Adams: Uplifting Voices and Serving with Purpose to Transform Communities
Recently graduating with a degree in Anthropology from the College of Arts and Sciences, Ella Adams embodies the spirit of passion and resilience. Ell...

October 28: "Central America’s Forgotten History: Revolution, Violence and the Roots of Migration" with Dr. Aviva Chomsky
BOONE, N.C. — Appalachian State University's Department of History is pleased to welcome professor, historian, author and activist Dr. Avi...

SAFE Student Spotlight: Josie Patch
Patch received a Spring 2023 Student and Faculty Excellence (SAFE) grant to cover hotel expenses while she conducted fieldwork in Robeson County for a...

Talk: On Ethnographic Research and Environmental Defense in Honduras
Dr. Jon Carter to give guest lecture at Rollins College: On Ethnographic Research and Environmental Defense in HondurasFor many years now, environment...

Marine Corps veteran, Dr. Seth Grooms, lays wreath for App State’s Memorial Day commemoration
Assistant Professor of Anthropology and Marine Corps veteran, Dr. Seth Grooms, was selected to lay wreath at this year's Memorial Day commemoration....

Dr. Marc Kissel contributes to new study funded by National Geographic Society
WASHINGTON, D.C. — In their search to understand human origins, National Geographic Explorer in Residence and world-renowned paleoanthropologist&nbs...
Alumni spotlights
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Kelsey Rothenberg ('15), Physician Assistant student
I graduated from Appalachian State University with my anthropology degree in May 2015. As I entered my first undergraduate year, I knew my ultimate career goal would involve healthcare and medicine. I had always assumed that a career in health care would automatically enable me to achieve my aspiration to help better the lives of underserved members in my community. However, as I began interacting with more and more individuals of different backgrounds, it became clear that serving people in a meaningful way is far more complex than I had previously understood.
Faculty spotlights
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Dr. Timothy J. Smith receives UNC Board of Governors Campus Excellence in Teaching Award
Dr. Timothy J. Smith has received one of the 2019-2020 UNC Board of Governors Excellence in Teaching Awards. This is the second of these awards for the Department (Dr. Thomas R. Whyte was named a winner in 2018-2019).
Student spotlights
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Anthropology major Gaby Romero helps to set COVID safety standards for students
Honors senior Gaby Romero, president of the Multicultural Greek Council at Appalachian and chief of staff of the university’s Student Government Association, joined other student leaders in setting safety standards for fraternity and sorority members. Romero is a multidisciplinary anthropology major pursuing minors in political science and economics and is also a Diversity Scholar.