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

Peacock's Feather poster

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, assistant professor in the Appalachian State University Department of Anthropology

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...

Dr. Timothy Smith with UNC System President Peter Hans

Dr. Timothy J. Smith completes one year fellowship at UNC Executive Leadership Institute

Dr. Timothy J. Smith is one of 24 University of North Carolina System employees who recently completed a one year fellowship at the University of Nort...

Sping Sustainability Film Series: The Smell of Money

Spring Sustainability Film Series: THE SMELL OF MONEY

Spring Sustainability Film Series:  THE SMELL OF MONEYPresented by the Office of Sustainability in collaboration with Anthropology and Sustainabl...

App State Chancellor Sheri Everts, center, and flag ceremony attendees applaud the unfurling of the flag of the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina in the university’s Plemmons Student Union on Feb. 27. App State first-year student Cierra Bell, immediately to the left of the chancellor, and assistant professor Dr. Seth Grooms, pictured fourth from right, unfurled the flag. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Lumbee tribal flag now hangs in App State’s student union, honoring the Lumbee people and their history

BOONE, N.C. — Appalachian State University recognized and honored the nearly 60,000 members of the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina and their history ...

Alumni spotlights

  • Lindsay Wetmore-Arkader

    Lindsay Wetmore-Arkader

    "Upon completing my undergraduate degree in Anthropology at Appalachian I worked as clinical support for Planned Parenthood of Greater NC before taking my first academic position at Wake Forest University School of Medicine in rural health."

Faculty spotlights

Student spotlights

  • Lauren Stander, Archaeology major

    When Lauren Stander took an Introduction to Archaeology class during her first year at Appalachian, she immediately decided to become an archaeology student. As a child, she found herself interested in what people throughout human existence have left behind, and how they lived. However, while Lauren had become somewhat exposed to archaeology as a discipline throughout her life, she was new to archaeology in the broader context of cultural anthropology. During her second year, Lauren took another anthropology class, Meso-American Cultures, which particularly struck her.