BA (Hons) Anthropology — Biocultural Concentration

This concentration within the BA (Hons) Anthropology program at Western Washington University provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the intersections between bioculture and human societies. Students will learn to analyze the ways in which cultural practices and beliefs are shaped by biological factors, such as genetics, disease transmission, and environmental determinants. The Biocultural Concentration prepares students for careers in fields such as medical anthropology, conservation biology, and global health, among others.

Additional Information

Students in this concentration will have the opportunity to participate in fieldwork projects, internships, and research collaborations with faculty members. The program also offers a range of courses on topics such as medical anthropology, cultural ecology, and the anthropology of food and nutrition.

Experience the Best of Bioculture at Western Washington University

Western Washington University is an ideal location for studying anthropology due to its proximity to the Pacific coast and access to diverse ecosystems. The university's Biocultural Research Center provides students with state-of-the-art resources for conducting research in bioculture, including laboratories for DNA sequencing and histopathology. Additionally, the university's location in the Pacific Northwest offers ample opportunities for fieldwork and experiential learning.

Anthropology explores what it means to be human. Anthropology is the scientific study of humankind in all the cultures of the world, past and present. This study includes humankind’s physical development and creation of diverse lifestyles. The cross-cultural approach of Anthropology provides a framework for understanding all the diverse facets of what it means to be human.

Why Consider a Biocultural Concentration in the Anthropology Major?

The Biocultural Anthropology Concentration is the most flexible of the biology anthropology combined majors and allows for students to gain a broad interdisciplinary training relevant for many of the professions confronting the challenges of modern society. Students can supplement their studies with related coursework from other departments given the requirements of specific training or post-baccalaureate programs.

Academic Requirements for freshman students:

The admission requirements for undergraduate courses are given as follows:

• Completed application form

• Academic Transcripts(certified english translations if necessary)

• Relevant High school degree/Grade Report/Certificates

• SAT or ACT Scores (Optional)

• A cumulative GPA of 2.0

• Personal Statement or essay

• One letter of recommendation

• List of extracurricular activities(if any)

• Portfolio