Upper Division Courses

Quantitative Methods in Anthropology

3 Credits (Minimum) 3 Credits (Maximum) 

A survey of quantitative methods emphasizing the nature of hypothesis testing. Attention is given to special problems of bioanthropological, archaeological, and ethnographic data. Prer., 9 Completed hours in anthropology or consent of instructor.

Special Topics in Anthropology

3 Credits (Minimum) 3 Credits (Maximum) 

Examination of selected topics in anthropology in lecture or seminar format. Topics will change according to the interest of the instructor and students. Students may repeat the course for credit as long as the topic is different. Consult the Schedule of Courses for topics.

Anthropology of Art and Expressive Culture

3 Credits (Minimum) 3 Credits (Maximum) 

This course introduces students to the anthropological study of art, aesthetics and expressive culture by considering several cross-cultural examples. Students will examine how aesthetics express and inform about the cultures in which they are found. Prer., ANTH 1020, ANTH 1030, ANTH 1040, or AH 1000.

Archaeology and Public Policy

3 Credits (Minimum) 3 Credits (Maximum) 

Explores the role of government and public opinion in the development and enforcement of cultural resource legislation. Students will have hands-on exposure to documenting and evaluating resource significance and will explore issues of cultural patrimony and tribal rights. Prer., ANTH 1020.

ANTH 3190 - Field Practicum in Applied Archaeology

6 Credits (Minimum) 6 Credits (Maximum)

A practicum course wherein students will work as part of a professional archaeological project and gain practical experience in archaeological field methods such as mapping, excavating, recording, survey, records and archives, field lab management, professional networking, and public consultation. Prer., ANTH 1020 and consent of instructor.

Lab Techniques in Archaeology

3 Credits (Minimum) 3 Credits (Maximum) 

Provides hands-on experience cataloging and analyzing materials from archaeological sites. Topics will include analysis, computer applications, materials conservation, and artifact illustration, and also the methodological decision-making that affects how we describe, analyze, and interpret data. Prer., ANTH 1020 or consent of instructor.

Mapping Archaeology

3 Credits (Minimum) 3 Credits (Maximum) 

We will use Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to produce maps of archaeological sites, view the archaeological record from new perspectives, reconstruct past landscapes, perform spatial analysis on artifacts, and ask spatial questions of past human behavior. 

Archaeology of Native North America

3 Credits (Minimum) 3 Credits (Maximum) 

The prehistory of North America, emphasizing the peopling of the new world, earliest American cultures, and later regional developments. 

Archaeology and Genetics of the Stone Age

3 Credits (Minimum) 3 Credits (Maximum) 

The cultural evidence for human development from the earliest stone tool assemblages of the Plio-Pleistocene to the Mesolithic and Archaic cultures of the old and new worlds. 

Native Peoples of the Southwest

3 Credits (Minimum) 3 Credits (Maximum) 

The prehistory and ethnography of the Indian cultures of the Southwest. Approved for LAS Cultural Diversity requirement. Meets with WEST 3250.

Agricultural Origins and the Emergence of Urban Society

3 Credits (Minimum) 3 Credits (Maximum) 

The evidence for the origins of agricultural economies and the emergence of complex social and political institutions in both the old and new worlds. Approved for LAS Social Science area requirement. 

Archaeology of the Recent Past

3 Credits (Minimum) 3 Credits (Maximum) 

History and practice of the sub-discipline of historical archaeology. Covers archaeological method and theory, some of which is unique to this subfield. Students will explore diverse perspectives brought to historical archaeology by its practitioners, and critically examine individual case studies. Approved for LAS Social Science area requirement. Approved for Compass Curriculum requirement: Explore: Society, Institutions, and Health. 

Archaeological Approaches to Gender and Sexuality

3 Credits (Minimum) 3 Credits (Maximum) 

Course covers archaeological approaches to studying gender and sexuality in past societies. Students will discuss the theoretical and methodological implications of these archaeological approaches and analyze various case studies, spanning periods from the Paleolithic to the recent past. Meets with WEST 3270.

ANTH 3290 - Archaeology of Colorado

3 Credits (Minimum) 3 Credits (Maximum)

The ecological and geographical diversity of the State of Colorado has made it a rich source of archaeological research on the pre- and post-contact past. This course covers the ways that archaeologists have used material culture and landscape to study cultural change in the Centennial State. Prer., ANTH 1020.

Human Reproduction: Dating, Mating, and Parenting

3 Credits (Minimum) 3 Credits (Maximum) 

This course examines various facets of human reproduction, including attraction, sex, anatomy and physiology, and parenting. The information presented in this class will be based on a cross-cultural, evolutionary understanding of human sexuality. Throughout this course, we will discuss topics including mate preferences; the neuroendocrine responses of sex and love; the human sexual response; cultural patterns of sex, marriage, and parenting; and sexual health.

Primatology

3 Credits (Minimum) 3 Credits (Maximum) 

Behavior, ecology, and evolution of nonhuman primates. Emphasis on field studies, and on evolutionary explanations of social groups, mating systems, and behavior toward kin. Approved for LAS Natural Science area requirement. Approved for Compass Curriculum requirement: Explore-Physical and Natural World. Prer., ANTH 1030 or consent of instructor.

Hormones and Behavior

3 Credits (Minimum) 3 Credits (Maximum) 

This course covers the topic of behavioral endocrinology. Students will learn about various hormones, the role of those hormones in humans, and to a lesser extent, non-human animals, and the role of hormones in the study of behavior. Prer., ANTH 1030 or sufficient coursework in Biology or Health Sciences.

Human Evolution

3 Credits (Minimum) 3 Credits (Maximum) 

A detailed examination of the fossil evidence for human evolution, emphasizing functional analysis of human structure and the process of natural selection. Approved for LAS Natural Science area requirement. Prer., ANTH 1030 or consent of instructor.

Forensic Anthropology

3 Credits (Minimum) 3 Credits (Maximum) 

This course teaches the basic analysis of human remains for the medico-legal profession, and will cover the history of the discipline, the bones and structure of the human skeleton. You will learn how to determine time since death, evaluate trauma, and identify individuals. This course will also explore the role of the forensic anthropologist in crime scene investigation and mass disaster recovery, looking at case studies from various situations.

Methods in Biological Anthropology

4 Credits 

Methods in Biological Anthropology This course focuses on methods commonly used in the field of biological anthropology, exploring what it means to be human from the perspectives of our evolutionary history and our individual life Histories. Prer., ANTH 1030.

Human Biology and Ecology

3 Credits (Minimum) 3 Credits (Maximum) 

Human biology and ecology explores human variation and adaptations within specific environmental and evolutionary contexts. We will explore interactions between cultural and biological factors in human anatomy and physiology, reproduction, and health. This course covers three main topics and is divided accordingly: 1) Describing human biology and variation; 2) Understanding contemporary human biological variation; and, 3) Contemplating the role of human biological variation in health and disease.

3 credits

Humans on the Edge

This course uses a biocultural approach to explore the resilience of the human species looking at the ways that humans adapt biologically, physiologically, behaviorally, and culturally to survive and thrive in extreme environments and situations where few other animals can. Prer., Sophomore standing or above or ANTH 1030 or instructor consent.

Evolutionary Medicine and Health

3 Credits (Minimum) 3 Credits (Maximum) 

Why do we get fevers? Are high cholesterol and arthritis an inevitable part of aging? And what's the deal with the "Paleo diet"? In this course, we will learn about how modern health issues are impacted by human's evolutionary history. We will look at data from biology, osteology, primatology, and cross-cultural studies to gain a deeper, holistic understanding of modern medicine and health. Topics will include diet, nutrition, chronic diseases, reproduction and contraception, and sleep

3 credits Bioarchaeology Bioarchaeology focuses on the study of human remains from archaeological sites, both ancient and historic. In this class, we will learn the bones of the human skeleton, look at how health and behavior can be interpreted from human skeletal remains and explore case studies from around the world. Prer., Sophomore standing or ANTH 1020 or ANTH 1030 or instructor consent.

Cultural Diversity in the United States

3 Credits (Minimum) 3 Credits (Maximum) 

This interdisciplinary course explores the complex histories and current realities of the United States and the experiences of the people who live there. We will analyze dominant narratives within U.S. history, outline how an “American” cultural identity was created, and consider how that constructed identity affected and affects cultural groups within the nation. Students will also learn to use multiple media and perspectives to tell anthropological stories about local history.

Anthropological Approaches to Globalization

3 Credits (Minimum) 3 Credits (Maximum) 

Through specific case studies, seminar analyzes how cultural identities and societal changes both respond to and shape global agendas. Addresses innovative anthropological and ethnographic approaches to globalization studies, and considers why they form a critical component of contemporary anthropological research. 

Anthropological Approaches to Race

3 Credits (Minimum) 3 Credits (Maximum) 

Anthropology of Global Christianity

3 Credits (Minimum) 3 Credits (Maximum) 

Worldwide, Christianity has adapted to local nuances of politics and culture. What does it mean to be Christian in a world system, and how does that meaning shift from country to country? How does Christianity become a political, cultural, and economic force?

Environmental Anthropology

3 Credits (Minimum) 3 Credits (Maximum) 

This course explores anthropological approaches to understanding the relationship between humans and their environments. Grounded in ethnographic perspectives, we will explore topics related to human ecologies, including health impacts, climate change, conservation, and sustainability at the local and global scales.

Ethnographic Methods and Theory

3 Credits (Minimum) 3 Credits (Maximum) 

This course is a broad survey of the kinds of analytical methods and understandings commonly used in sociocultural anthropology. “Theory” in this course represents a range of epistemological concerns that shape how one does fieldwork e.g. race, class, gender. “Method” in this course represents a range of specific tasks that comprise “doing” research e.g. talk, observation, archival digging. Drawing upon these resources, students will develop a proposal that outlines a research method catered to their specific research question, sites, populations etc. In this course, students are expected to hone their perspectives as reflexive, socially engaged anthropologists who can connect their research to real world issues. Prer., ANTH 1040.

History and Practice of Archaeology

3 Credits (Minimum) 3 Credits (Maximum) 

This course offered only in spring. A seminar designed for students who already have some archaeology coursework and are interested in the history and development of the discipline as well as more recent methodological and theoretical debates. Prer., ANTH 1020.

Applied Community Studies

3 Credits (Minimum) 3 Credits (Maximum) 

A service-learning, community-based research course in which students, professors, and community members work together to reach community-identified goals. Working in teams, students will learn to apply anthropology and human geography research methods in developing effective community outreach programs. Prer., permission of instructor.

Language, Culture, and Society

3 Credits (Minimum) 3 Credits (Maximum) 

An examination of the social and cultural functions of language, emphasizing the use of linguistic methods and theories in anthropology and sociology. Prer., Sophomore standing. ANTH 2800 or permission of instructor.

Native American Languages and Cultures

3 Credits (Minimum) 3 Credits (Maximum) 

This course examines Native American languages focusing on their cultural value in traditional/historic and contemporary contexts. We will investigate the relationship between language and cultural practices, settings, ideologies, and representations, as well as how these semiotic practices promote or discourage the maintenance and/or revitalization of Native community customs. Perspectives from a myriad of “voices” from Native community members, artists, activists, scholars, and non-Native scholars will be introduced. 

Language and Discrimination

3 Credits (Minimum) 3 Credits (Maximum) 

Language practices and ideologies continually (re)produce forms of social difference and inequality within and across communities of interaction. This course examines the ways the semiotic landscape is intrinsically linked with political and economic structures and processes that aid in the establishment of language commodification and variation. Throughout the course, we will identify how racial inequalities are continually perpetuated and challenged through language practices.

History and Theory of Anthropology

3 Credits (Minimum) 3 Credits (Maximum) 

This course provides an introduction to the history of anthropology and anthropological theory from the 1800s to the present day, considering their relation both to other intellectual approaches within the social and natural sciences, and to anthropological practice. By the end of the course, students will feel comfortable both discussing and applying various theoretical approaches, be familiar with principal debates within the discipline, and understand recent shifts toward decolonization. 

Hunter-Gatherer Societies: Past and Present

3 Credits (Minimum) 3 Credits (Maximum) 

In this seminar course we will combine archaeological and ethnographic views of Hunter-Gatherer Societies around the world and through time. Hunting and gathering was the only way of life for most of our past and has shaped our biological & cultural development. In addition, hunting & gathering has continued into the present alongside, and frequently in conflict with, agricultural and industrialized societies. We will examine key aspects of hunter-gatherer societies with a particular focus on their subsistence strategies, mobility & settlement patterns, development of social inequality, and reliance on social networks.

Advanced Topics in Archaeology

1 Credits (Minimum) 3 Credits (Maximum) 

Intensive study of selected topics in archaeology and prehistory. Prer., Vary depending on course topic. Meets with ANTH 5200.

Wild Cognition

6 Credits (Minimum) 6 Credits (Maximum) 

After appropriate academic and skills training, qualified students will spend several days in the wilderness using prehistoric techniques of hunting and gathering. At the same time they will be engaged in testing specific hypotheses concerning the cognitive challenges involved in these activities.

3 credits

Advanced Laboratory Techniques in Archaeology

In this laboratory practicum, students analyze and interpret archaeological data and materials from the field school. Students will engage in specialized analysis techniques, data management and interpretation, report writing, and curatorial activities related to archaeological materials. Prer., ANTH 3179/3190 and ANTH 3210.

Landscape Archaeology

3 Credits (Minimum)  3Credits (Maximum) 

Explore human landscapes at scales of research beyond the 'site.' Survey perspectives from historically capitalist and pre-capitalist perspectives. Sustainability is the thread that ties this course together. Archaeology at regional scales explores environmental justice, ecology, and heritage. Approved for LAS Global Awareness and Social Sciences requirements. Approved for Compass Curriculum requirements: Explore-Society, Health and Behavior; Sustainability. 

 Advanced Topics in Biological Anthropology

3 Credits (Minimum) 3 Credits (Maximum) 

Intensive study of selected issues in human evolution, human biology, and primate behavior and ecology. Different years deal with different topic areas. Prer., ANTH 1030 or consent of instructor.

Cognitive Evolution

3 Credits (Minimum) 3 Credits (Maximum) 

Examines the evolution of primate and hominid cognition. Content includes basic neuroanatomy, relevant evolutionary theory, and neuropsychology (brain damage patterns), but the emphasis will be placed on the primate comparative evidence, paleoneurology (fossil endocasts), and the archaeological record. Open to Juniors and Seniors only. Meets with ANTH 5310.

3 credits

Parasites in Human Evolution

What do sexual reproduction, immunity, and disgust have in common? PARASITES. Evolutionarily, our species has been in contact with microscopic animals that use us for shelter and food. How did this relationship evolve? Can we truly be healthy without them? Prer., ANTH 1030 or Instructor Permission.

3 credits

Primate Behavior and Ecology Methods

The course is designed to give students a working knowledge of primate behavioral ecology in a zoological environment. The objective of the course is to give students experience in major methodological aspects of primate behavior, data collection, exploratory, and confirmatory data analysis. The course will be taught at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo and lectures/discussions will be provided remotely. Prer., ANTH 1030, ANTH 3320 or similar course.

Advanced Topics in Cultural Anthropology

3 Credits (Minimum) 3 Credits (Maximum) 

Intensive study of selected topics in cultural anthropology. In different years deals with different topic areas. Prer., Vary depending on course topic. 

Museums and Meaning

3 Credits (Minimum) 3 Credits (Maximum) 

Students will critically evaluate the ways in which anthropology museums make meaning through practice. We scrutinize how museums can (mis)represent culture. We will focus specifically on issues of voice, narrative building, representation, authority, decolonization, and sensitivity. Approved for LAS Cultural Diversity requirement. Approved for Compass Curriculum requirements: Inclusiveness (Global/Diversity); Writing Intensive. Prer., ANTH 1040 or MSGP 2000.

3 credits

Food and Empire

This course considered the people, process, and relationships whereby food serves as a channel for the exertion of power-linking moments of war, colonialism, and imperialism to the development of the American industrial food system. Approved for LAS Cultural Diversity and LAS Social Science area requirements. Prer., Sophomore standing. First years may request instructor permission.

ANTH 4430 - Labor & Social Transformation

3 Credits (Minimum) 3 Credits (Maximum)

This course is an advanced exploration into the theoretical and ethical dimensions of labor. It compares and contrasts categories of “labor” in order to highlight both the history of what labor is and the future of what creative attention to labor might enable in political and social spheres. Approved for LAS Social Science area and Global Awareness requirements. Prer., Sophomore standing. First year students may request instructor permission.

Ethnography of Sport

3 Credits (Minimum) 3 Credits (Maximum) 

This course will focus on how sports produce worlds that are fundamentally focused on the human body. It is this focus that will allow us to investigate cultural forms that exist in practice without necessarily existing in language. Prer., ANTH 1040, ANTH 3970, or permission of instructor.

Internship in Anthropology

1 Credits (Minimum) 6 Credits (Maximum) 

A program of study and learning outside the classroom. Practical exposure to field of interest is intended to provide appropriate experience related to a student's career orientation. Students must have departmental permission. Anthropology majors only. Prerequisites vary depending on area of specialization.

Advanced Topics in Anthropological Linguistics

3 Credits (Minimum) 3 Credits (Maximum) 

Intensive study of selected topics in anthropological linguistics. In different years deals with different topic areas. Prer., Consent of instructor.

Senior Seminar in Anthropology

3 Credits (Minimum) 3 Credits (Maximum) 

This course offered only in spring. A one semester special topics course designed to provide a synthesizing cap to the student's undergraduate program in anthropology. Topics vary by semester. Approved for Compass Curriculum requirement: Capstone Experience. Prer., ANTH 3970. Senior status.

Honors Thesis

3 Credits (Minimum) 3 Credits (Maximum) 

For honors in Anthropology. a one semester research project. The student will write a formal research paper drawing on primary sources and pertinent secondary material. The student will work under the direction of a full time member of the department and will have a second member as an additional reader. The student will prepare an oral presentation to the faculty to include a thesis defense and responses to general questions in the four subfields. Prer., Senior status and consent of department chair.