Anthropology (ANTH)

ANTH 1312. Cultural Anthropology.

This course introduces students to the concept of culture, anthropological methods and theories, and the unity and variability of the human species. The course draws on comparative and analytical approaches to demonstrate how anthropologists study cultural systems, social organization, and human adaptation across the globe.

ANTH 2101. Biological Anthropology Laboratory.

This course provides hands-on laboratory experience with foundational knowledge and methods in biological anthropology. The course examines the scientific method, human genetic variation, evolutionary theory, primate skeletal anatomy, and the fossil record of human evolution. Laboratory activities analyze genetic inheritance, evolutionary processes, primate morphology and behavior, and comparative anatomy of fossil species. Emphasis is placed on empirical observation, measurement, and comparative analysis to investigate biological diversity and evolutionary change within and across primate and hominin species.

ANTH 2102. Introduction to Archaeology Laboratory.

This course accompanies the Introduction to Archaeology lecture course (ANTH 2302). It introduces professional field and laboratory techniques used in archaeology through hands-on experience with archaeological materials. The course presents and applies the techniques and documentation methods employed in archaeological research, including stratigraphy, site mapping, the analysis of lithic and ceramic artifacts, iconographic interpretation, and artifact illustration and recording. The course also introduces ethical considerations in archaeological practice as subjects of scholarly and professional analysis. Corequisite: ANTH 2302 with a grade of "D" or better.

ANTH 2301. Introduction to Biological Anthropology.

This course examines fundamental aspects of the biological nature of humans and their primate relatives. Course content covers the different subfields of biological anthropology (genetics, primatology, paleoanthropology, osteology and forensics). Course material includes topics devoted to explaining the scientific method, natural selection, evolutionary theory, genetics, speciation, adaptation, nonhuman primate anatomy, behavior and ecology, osteology, forensic anthropology, and human evolution. In short, this lecture course examines fundamental aspects of the biological nature of humans using evolutionary theory.

ANTH 2302. Introduction to Archaeology.

This course examines the basic principles of archaeology. It introduces the history and goals of archaeology and places the field in the context of anthropology. The course examines the identification of artifacts and features, the creation and preservation of archaeological sites, and dating methods. It applies archaeological data to reconstructing past behavior, subsistence practices, social organization, and social complexity, and explores key developments in the human past. This course reviews legal and ethical aspects of archaeological practice. Corequisite: ANTH 2102 with a grade of "D" or better.

ANTH 3101. Writing Anthropology.

This course explores writing in anthropology and the writing process by completing a semester-long project. It focuses on professional writing in academic and non-academic contexts, including scientific and ethnographic styles, writing for public audiences, and the development of authorial voice. The course examines the research process in library and field contexts, effective use of anthropological literature, editing and revision practices, citation and formatting methods, and writing tools and resources.

ANTH 3102. Skeletal Processing, Preparation, and Curation Techniques.

This course covers laboratory-based human skeletal processing techniques used in forensic anthropological casework. Students will be trained in handling and cleaning human skeletal remains, best practices for curation, and efficiently and effectively labeling each of the 206 bones in the human body. Students examine the complete process from body donation to final curation in the laboratory. Additionally, students will be introduced to human skeletal anatomy and variation, including preservation conditions, documentation standards, and safety protocols. Prerequisite: ANTH 3381 with a grade of a "D" or better.

ANTH 3201. Career Development in Anthropology.

This course examines the skills developed in anthropology and their application to career pathways. It analyzes how anthropological training contributes to professional competencies and explores strategies for articulating and applying these skills in a range of employment contexts within and beyond the discipline. Topics include assessment and translation of disciplinary skills, development of career objectives, preparation of application materials, interviewing techniques, professional communication, networking, job search strategies, and analysis of labor market trends.

ANTH 3301. Advanced Cultural Theory.

This course examines advanced theoretical and methodological approaches in cultural anthropology, focusing on how anthropological knowledge is produced, debated, and revised. It surveys a range of contemporary frameworks, including ontological, postcolonial, feminist, materialist, political-economic, environmental, experimental, and digital approaches for interpreting cultural phenomena. Thematic emphases may vary by semester, allowing students to engage with leading-edge research and ongoing debates that are shaping the discipline. Prerequisite: ANTH 1312 with a grade of "D" or better.

ANTH 3302. Introduction to Linguistic Anthropology.

This course introduces students to linguistic anthropology, the subfield that examines the relationship between language and culture. Drawing from the formal properties of language, it examines how language relates to social and cultural categories. Topics include the ethnography of communication, writing and literacy, language origins, acquisition, variation, and change across communities and historical periods. Emphasis is placed on empirical and comparative approaches used by anthropologists to show the universal features and particular patterns of language as a human and communal property.

ANTH 3303. Applied Cultural Anthropology.

This course explores how cultural anthropology is applicable to real world issues in multiple career contexts, including user design, market and consumer research, and program evaluation. It examines the history and scope of applied anthropology and demonstrates the methods applied cultural anthropologists use to address social problems. The course provide hands-on opportunities for students to employ ethnographic methods to solve problems by gathering and analyzing data and preparing deliverables. It illustrates how to apply the principles of anthropology in the workplace.

ANTH 3304. Bioarchaeology.

This course examines the study of human skeletal remains within archaeological contexts. The course analyzes core theories, analytical frameworks, and laboratory methods used in bioarchaeology to interpret biological variation and lived experience in past populations. Topics include subsistence strategies, diet, disease processes, demography, biological relatedness, physical activity, and mortuary practices. Emphasis is placed on evaluating evidence, methodological limitations, and interpretive models used to reconstruct individual and population level patterns from skeletal data.

ANTH 3305. Magic, Ritual and Religion.

This course surveys anthropological perspectives on religion as a cultural system using historical and cross-cultural comparison with a focus on the Americas, Africa, and Europe. It examines world religions and regional interpretations of magic, supernatural beings, and other phenomena in both the past and present. It introduces anthropological theories and approaches to the study of religion and spirituality and considers the historical, political, and social factors associated with the emergence of new religious movements.

ANTH 3306. World Prehistory.

This course examines the major events in human evolution and prehistory from the earliest hominin fossil and archaeological evidence in Africa to the origin of food domestication across the globe and ending with the development of complex societies throughout Europe, Asia, Africa and the Americas. Students analyze current archaeological and paleoanthropological evidence documenting human adaptation to Ice Age climates, global dispersal, the development of food production systems, and the emergence of complex societies.

ANTH 3307. History of Evolutionary Thought.

This course explores the worldview and scientific mindset pre- and post- the publication of Darwin's 1859 "Origin of Species" book. It will examine pre-Darwinian perspectives on biological change, discuss Darwin's writing, analyze how natural selection works, examine common misconceptions about it, describe Mendel and the Modern Evolutionary Synthesis, identify how the Modern Evolutionary Synthesis and knowledge of genetics affects the concept of race, discuss the American eugenics program, apply evolutionary principles to humans, and discuss the role of evolutionary theory in contemporary science and society. Prerequisites: ANTH 2301 with a grade of "D" or better.

ANTH 3308. Public Archaeology.

This course surveys archaeology that is publicly funded and highlights Cultural Resource Management (CRM), the practice of conserving and investigating archaeological remains as mandated by federal and state laws. The course covers the history of CRM and its legal and regulatory framework, organization, methods, funding, employment prospects, and ethical and practical dilemmas, as well as the role of archaeologists in policy development, public outreach, and community engagement. Case studies from Texas and other regions are used to analyze how CRM operates in practice and how different management approaches affect archaeological resources.

ANTH 3309. Culture And Film.

This class presents an anthropological and cross-cultural examination of the interrelationship of culture and film from the birth of cinema until the late 20th century. It explores the connections amongst filmmakers, audiences, and culture in different time periods and nations. It considers film making both as an art form and as a commercial endeavor and examines some of the major technological developments in filmmaking in the 20th century and their effect on the film industry.

ANTH 3311. Disease and Society.

This course examines infectious diseases and the effects they have on human societies. It combines analytic concepts from the disciplines of medical anthropology, epidemiology and public health. The course focuses on ways in which human culture, biology and environmental factors intersect and the resulting impacts on health at the population level. The course is organized into case studies of specific infectious diseases, which focus on the historical context, biology and epidemiology of each disease as well its social impact.

ANTH 3314. Latin American Cultures.

This course surveys Latin American cultures through regional, historical, and ethnographic perspectives. It examines social organization, cultural expression, and systems of belief across communities throughout the region. Particular attention is given to how geography, historical processes, and local traditions shape social identities, political formations, and nationalist projects. Ethnographic case studies as well as literature, art, music, popular culture, and other multimedia sources are used to situate cultural dynamics within broader regional, hemispheric, and global contexts.

ANTH 3315. Archaeology of the Southwest.

This course provides an overview of the prehistory and early cultures of the Greater Southwest from the first arrival of humans as early as 20,000 years ago to the coming of the Spaniards in the 16th century. This course examines archaeological sites ranging from ice age mammoth kills, through Archaic hunter-gatherer camps and early farming sites, to the multi-storied pueblos, platform mounds, and cliff dwellings of the Ancestral Pueblo, Hohokam, and Mogollon and contemporary cultures of northern Mexico.

ANTH 3316. The Origin and Evolution of Human Behavior.

This course presents information on African, Asian, European, Australian and American Pleistocene Paleolithic archaeology and hominin evolution. The course discusses hominin behavior and contrasts it with primate behavior in Africa by identifying the foundational elements of human behavior and social organization, and it outlines the initial colonization from Africa into Asia and Europe and tracks the subsequent colonization of Australia and the Americas. This course identifies the pivotal hominin achievements through 5 million years ending with the origin of modern human cognition and spread of Homo sapiens sapiens in each continent.

ANTH 3317. Methods in Rock Art Documentation and Analysis.

This course examines archaeological methods used to document, analyze, and interpret rock art, with a regional focus on the Lower Pecos Canyonlands of southwest Texas. Instruction integrates fieldwork and laboratory training in the recording, processing, and management of archaeological documentation. Field activities introduce digital photography, panoramic imaging, photogrammetry, sketch mapping, GPS, iconographic inventories, and written site records. Lectures and readings survey theoretical and methodological approaches in rock art research and hunter-gatherer archaeology, while encouraging students to engage publications critically and evaluate how different forms of archaeological evidence are used to assess and compare interpretations of rock art imagery.

ANTH 3318. Archaeology of Texas’ Ancient Cultures.

This course presents the current interpretations and ongoing debates regarding the archaeological record in Texas and introduce the variety of evidence archaeologists use to understand ancient cultures in the region. Texas has been a continental crossroads throughout its human history, linking varied terrain, climate, ecology, and cultural adaptations. This course surveys evidence for the variety of ancient lifeways practiced throughout more than 13,000 years of Texas history in the context of broader cultural patterns present across North America. (WI).

ANTH 3322. Peoples and Cultures of Africa.

This course focuses on the different peoples in Africa and their variety of cultures, their historical encounters, and current national, international, and intercontinental affairs. It also explores their geography, social structure, political system, religious practices, day-to-day life, and youth culture. The course draws on case studies, descriptive and analytical approaches, literary works, and documentaries to demonstrate how anthropologists study peoples, cultural systems, social organization, and human adaptation.

ANTH 3324. Mexican American Culture.

This course examines scholarly interpretations of the social and historical processes shaping Mexican American culture, emphasizing anthropological and interdisciplinary perspectives on the United States–Mexico borderlands. It analyzes cultural practices, community and political formations, migration histories, and expressive traditions as subjects of historical and ethnographic inquiry. Areas of study include visual art, music, film, and performance, which are all considered as cultural texts that reflect broader social, regional, and transnational dynamics.

ANTH 3325. Medical Anthropology.

This course examines how understandings of health and illness are shaped by cultural beliefs, environmental conditions, and social contexts. It explores how human adaptation to local environments shapes patterns of health and disease, and analyzes how political and economic structures affect health outcomes and health-related practices. The course presents key perspectives from medical anthropology, including cross-cultural approaches to healing and the social dimensions of disease. It also investigates how global and local forces interact to shape health care systems and medical decision-making.

ANTH 3327. Anthropology of Religion.

This course examines religion as a fundamental dimension of human experience through anthropological theory and ethnographic analysis. It explores belief systems, ritual practices, symbolism, and spiritual traditions across cultures and societies, emphasizing how religious systems shape and reflect social organization, morality, identity, and worldviews. Topics include myth, magic, and spirituality; the relationship between religion and power; and the impact of globalization and secular modernity. Readings and case studies highlight comparative approaches to understanding meaning, practice, and transformation in religious life.

ANTH 3330. Archaeological Curation and Collections Management.

This course provides technical training in and an understanding of the principles and methods of curating and managing archaeological collections. It reviews the history of archaeological curation in the United States as well as relevant laws and regulations that apply to collections facilities. Additional topics include types of repositories and storage facilities, costs of curation, policies, collection rehabilitation, archival processing, basic preventive conservation strategies, and the use of archaeological collections for public education.

ANTH 3331D. Dental Anthropology and Oral Biology.

This course examines the biological development of craniofacial and dental structures from anthropological and biological perspectives. Emphasis is placed on hard tissue anatomy, dental histology, and analytical methods used to identify variation and disease in human populations. Dental traits are examined in relation to evolutionary processes, population history, and biological adaptation. The course also introduces forensic approaches that support the identification and interpretation of human remains. Designed for anthropology and preprofessional dentistry students, the course emphasizes scientific reasoning, comparative analysis, and evaluation of dental evidence. Prerequisite: ANTH 2301 or [BIO 1130 and BIO 1330] any with a grade of "D" or better or instructor approval.

ANTH 3331F. Body Talk: Gestures, Communication, and Society.

This course introduces students to gesture as a fundamental component of human communication. It examines how gestures convey meaning, accompany speech, coordinate interaction, and reflect cultural norms. Drawing on cross-cultural data, the course provides tools for analyzing gesture typologies, functions, and their relationship to language, thought, and communicative ecology. It also surveys major theoretical perspectives on how visible action operates as an integral, culturally shaped part of language.

ANTH 3331J. Race and Biological Anthropology.

In this course students will learn where race concepts originated, examining the worldview and scientific mindsets that guided biological anthropology into the 21st century. We will explore how social race has become biological, put forth pragmatic solutions in the context of anthropology research, and help develop an informed scientific practice.

ANTH 3331M. Southeastern Archaeology.

This course is a study of the social and cultural history of Indigenous communities in the Southeastern US from ancient times to the present through archaeological and ethnohistorical research. Topics will include regional cultural traditions, the independent invention of pottery, impact of corn agriculture, and the development of complex Precolumbian sociopolitical systems. The course centers the Southeast with a focus on Eastern Texas from the Paleoindian to Historic Periods. The course surveys archaeological perspectives to interpret Indigenous cultural development across time and space.

ANTH 3331N. Archaeogaming.

This course explores video games and related technologies from an archaeological perspective. It uses games to analyze cultural information, critically evaluates game design choices and player interactions, and examines digital technologies used to virtually reconstruct archaeological sites. Topics include games as historical artifacts, digital documentation of cultural heritage, the use of virtual reconstructions for public outreach, and cultural representation in video games. The course examines games through an archaeological lens to highlight relationships between technology, culture, and society.

ANTH 3336. Locally Engaged Research.

This course examines the practice of applied anthropological research through collaborative partnerships with organizations and local communities. It introduces principles of organizational and community-based participatory research, oral history and archival methods, and qualitative data collection. The course centers on a semester-long research project addressing unique research situations, emphasizing professional standards of ethical collaboration, project planning, data management, and public-facing deliverables. Graduate and undergraduate students work in research teams to document social relations, analyze data, and produce materials relevant to community partners and applied anthropological research practice. Prerequisite: ANTH 1312 with a grade of "D" or better or Instructor approval.

ANTH 3337. Language and Linguistics.

This course introduces students to the theoretical study of language. It offers a broad overview of linguistics, its major subfields, and its research methods. It will explore what it means to “know” a language, how such knowledge is acquired, and how it is used in everyday communication. Topics include the defining properties of human language, mental representation, learnability, language origins, and patterns of use and change, providing a foundation for further study in linguistic theory.

ANTH 3338. Geoarchaeology.

This course introduces students to geoarchaeological approaches to the interpretation of sediments, soils, and stratigraphic sequences at archaeological sites. Emphasis is placed on understanding natural depositional environments, processes of weathering, the formation of soils, and stratigraphic analytical methods as they relate to the formation, preservation, and degradation of archaeological sites. In addition, the course examines how geological processes influence the integrity, context, and interpretation of archaeological materials through applied case studies and analytical exercises. (WI) Prerequisite: ANTH 2302 or GEOL 1410 either with a grade of "D" or better.

ANTH 3339. Ethnographic Film and Global Culture.

This course explores contemporary documentary and ethnographic film as evolving sites of anthropological knowledge production that shape how global cultures are represented and understood. Through analysis of these intersecting media of visual storytelling, the course traces the intertwined histories of cinema and anthropology and how these cultural texts are created, viewed, and interpreted from various perspectives. Drawing on key texts in visual anthropology and documentary practice, the course foregrounds film as a methodological, theoretical, and ethical means of examining complex social worlds across the globe.

ANTH 3340. Human and Primate Origins.

This course introduces the scientific study of human and primate evolution through analysis of fossil evidence, comparative anatomy, and evolutionary theory. It examines major discoveries, methods used to reconstruct past environments, and current scholarly debates regarding hominin origins and diversification. Laboratory exercises develop practical skills in skeletal identification, metric analysis, and interpretation of paleoanthropological data. The course emphasizes how scientific questions are formulated, tested, and reassessed as new evidence emerges. By engaging with multiple lines of evidence, students gain experience applying analytical reasoning to evaluate hypotheses about human evolutionary history.

ANTH 3342. Primate Behavior and Ecology.

This course provides information about the behavior, ecology, biology, and conservation of nonhuman primates (including lemurs, lorises, tarsiers, monkeys, and apes), and the methods used in primatological research. Emphasis is placed on comparative analysis of social systems, reproduction, development, communication, cognition, and ecological adaptation within an evolutionary framework. Topics include how variation in environment and evolutionary history shapes primate behavior and diversity. As our closest biological relatives, they also provide insights into human evolution, biology, and behavior.

ANTH 3343. Human Variation and Adaptation.

This course examines biological variation within and among human populations from an evolutionary perspective. The course analyzes genetic, environmental, and developmental factors that contribute to human diversity, including patterns of phenotypic and genotypic variation. Emphasis is placed on the interpretation of human variation using evolutionary theory, population history, and biological processes. The course also evaluates methods used to study human variation and considers applications in areas such as forensic anthropology and population studies.

ANTH 3345. Archaeology of Mesoamerica.

This course examines the development of complex societies in Mesoamerica from the earliest hunter-gatherers, through the rise and fall of major civilizations, into the early Colonial period. It explores key archaeological evidence for the origins of agriculture, urbanism, writing systems, ritual practices, ancient economies, and the development of states. Emphasis is placed on interpreting material culture, iconography, and settlement patterns within broader anthropological frameworks. The course highlights cultural achievements, environmental adaptations, and interregional interactions both within Mesoamerica and with other parts of the Americas.

ANTH 3347. Archaeology of North America.

This course surveys human settlement of North America from the end of the Pleistocene through the early historic period, spanning the last approximately 13,000 years. It describes how archaeologists study the past using evidence from the archaeological record. It examines regional variation in subsistence strategies and social development across major cultural periods, including Paleoindian and Archaic traditions and the emergence of agricultural societies in the Southeast and Southwest.

ANTH 3348. Primate Conservation and Welfare: Adapting to Different Landscapes.

This course provides instruction on the behavioral ecology, welfare, and conservation of primates and the flora and fauna in their ecosystems and in captive environments. Topics include categories of threats to nonhuman primates as defined by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, conservation status assessments, and the study of ethnoprimatology, which examines interactions between humans and nonhuman primates within shared ecosystems. The course also addresses the psychological well-being of captive primates, including environmental enrichment and management practices.

ANTH 3349. The Incas.

This course examines the origin, development, and expansion of the Incas, one of the largest empires in the pre-Columbian Americas, which covered much of western South America. Using archaeological, historical, and ethnographic information, the class analyzes and interprets the social, political, and belief systems that shaped the Inca civilization. Course topics include the origins of Inca society, political expansion, military strategies, religion, economic systems, art, systems of governance, the quipu recording device, and Spanish colonialism.

ANTH 3350. Gender and Sexuality in Global Perspective.

This course examines historical and contemporary research on gender and sexuality from global and comparative perspectives within anthropology and related fields. It surveys key theoretical concepts, methodological approaches, and interpretive frameworks used to analyze how gender and sexuality are conceptualized, organized, and regulated across different social, cultural, and historical contexts worldwide. The course examines ethnographic studies that address variation in bodily practices, identity, kinship, labor, power, and social regulation. Emphasis is placed on anthropological approaches to gender and sexuality through the examination of case studies from across the globe.

ANTH 3351. Anthropology of Peace and Violence.

This course examines the cultural, political, and institutional frameworks through which aid, protection, and care are conceptualized and organized. Drawing on anthropological scholarship on peace, violence, and humanitarian governance, it analyzes how international relations, policy environments, and local conditions shape solutions to poverty, conflict, displacement, public health crises, and environmental disasters. Emphasis is placed on comparative analysis of humanitarian concepts, practices, and their social consequences across different historical and geographic contexts, and on evaluating scholarly approaches to the study of peace and violence from a global perspective.

ANTH 3352. Language and the Body.

This course examines how language shapes embodied experience, social interaction, and cultural meaning through approaches drawn from linguistic, cultural, and medical anthropology. It analyzes how discourse relates to identity, belief, stigma, social status, and bodily experience across contexts such as everyday conversation, schools, social media, popular media, and medical settings. Drawing on theoretical and applied scholarship, the course emphasizes anthropological analysis of language in relation to the body, along with observation, interviewing, ethnographic interpretation, and written analysis.

ANTH 3353. Human Structure and Function.

This course introduces the structure and function of the human body through a regional approach to gross anatomy. Students study major organ systems and anatomical relationships using texts, visual media, and online laboratory resources. Emphasis is placed on understanding anatomical terminology, spatial organization, and the structural features of the thorax, abdomen, pelvis, limbs, head, and neck. The course also addresses functional principles that relate anatomical form to physiological actions. Students develop foundational skills in identifying structures, describing spatial and functional relationships, and interpreting anatomical images used in scientific and health‑related fields.

ANTH 3356. Andean Archaeology.

This course examines the archaeology of ancient societies in the Andean region of South America through a chronological exploration of cultural developments. It analyzes major transitions beginning with the earliest human presence, early hunter gatherer communities, the domestication of plants and animals, the rise of complex societies, and the emergence of states and empires. Several cultures are studied including Chavín, Moche, Nasca, Wari, Tiwanaku, Chimú, and Inca. Emphasis is placed on archaeological evidence, interpretive debates, and regional patterns of political, economic, and religious organization.

ANTH 3357. Historical Archaeology.

This course introduces the theoretical and methodological foundations of historical archaeology, emphasizing how material culture and documentary sources are used to study societies from the post‑medieval period to the present. Students learn to examine ceramics, glass, architecture, and cultural landscapes while engaging with case studies from North America and Texas. The course highlights analytical approaches, disciplinary debates, and the interpretation of material evidence in historical contexts. Through applied work with artifacts and documents, students develop skills for integrating archaeological data with written records and for evaluating diverse forms of evidence used in historic‑period research.

ANTH 3358. Human Evolutionary Anatomy.

This course examines primate anatomical structure and function from an evolutionary and comparative perspective. Topics include early chordate evolution, primate morphological diversity, and methodological approaches used to analyze relationships between form and function. Emphasis is placed on functional morphology, locomotor adaptations, and anatomical variation across major primate groups. The course also explores how comparative anatomy contributes to scientific interpretations of fossil primate and hominin behavior. Through analysis of skeletal, muscular, and ecological evidence, students develop skills in evaluating hypotheses about anatomical adaptation and evolutionary patterns.

ANTH 3359. Skeletal Processing, Preparation, and Curation Techniques.

This course covers laboratory-based human skeletal processing techniques used in forensic anthropological casework. Students will be trained in handling and cleaning human skeletal remains, best practices for curation, and how to efficiently and effectively label each of the 206 bones in the human body. Students will gain an understanding of the complete process that occurs between body donation and final curation in the laboratory. Additionally, students will be introduced to human skeletal anatomy and variation. Prerequisite: ANTH 3381 with a grade of a "D" or better.

ANTH 3360. Economic Anthropology.

This course introduces students to the major themes, theories, and methods of economic anthropology through a combination of ethnographic case studies and key theoretical readings. The course explores how different societies organize production, exchange, consumption, property, and inheritance, and how these practices affect and reveal broader cultural values and social relations. The course examines forms of economic life ranging from foraging and pastoral societies to horticultural, agrarian, and pre-capitalist complex states. By comparing economic systems across cultures, the course explores differences in human economies and how these are connected to social and moral worlds.

ANTH 3361. Archaeological Field Methods.

This course presents several approaches used by archaeologists to plan, organize, and carry out archaeological field investigations from survey to excavation to specialized data recovery. Content focuses on the research strategies, techniques, and logistics necessary to design and accomplish effective field research. To introduce content, the course includes a mix of lecture, written reports, and field exercises designed to practice standardized methods that conducted in indoor and outdoor campus settings to provide hands-on training. (WI).

ANTH 3366. Social Impact & Innovation.

This course examines how innovation and social impact are understood and practiced in contemporary social, economic, and organizational contexts. Using anthropology’s broad lens on human culture and experience, it analyzes the histories, discourses, and social structures that shape approaches to entrepreneurship, capitalism, technoscience, and governance. The course investigates how assumptions about innovation emerge, circulate, and influence decision‑making across domains and demonstrates how to use ethnographic thinking and inductive research methods to conceptualize problems, design interventions, and assess outcomes.

ANTH 3367. Applied Statistics.

This course introduces students to statistical concepts and the use of statistical software as applied to anthropological research. Topics may include how to interpret, analyze, and visualize quantitative data that are drawn from topics commonly examined in anthropology. The course focuses on technical competence, analytical reasoning, and science communication. It demonstrates how to evaluate quantitative arguments in anthropological scholarship as well as how to apply statistical tools to empirical research questions.

ANTH 3368. The Archaeology of Cannibalism and Sacrifice.

This course explores archaeological evidence for violence in past societies, focusing on human sacrifice and the consumption of human remains. It examines these practices as cultural phenomena within specific historical and social contexts. The course analyzes cannibalism and sacrifice as expressions of social organization, belief systems, and environmental or political conditions. Archaeological and ethnohistoric case studies from multiple periods and regions are used to identify variation and common patterns. Emphasis is placed on evaluating evidence, interpreting context, and understanding differing scholarly explanations for these practices.

ANTH 3369. Anthropology and the Law.

This course explores the role of law as a social system and its relationship to anthropology. It examines legal reasoning, key legal actors, and the interaction between law and social change across different contexts. Topics include the historical development of legal anthropology, legal pluralism, and the relationship between legal systems and cultural practices. The course also considers U.S. law, international law, and comparative legal frameworks, including common and case law traditions. Emphasis is placed on analyzing how law and anthropological research inform one another and how legal systems operate within broader social and cultural structures.

ANTH 3377. Anthropology of Youth.

This course explores issues related to adolescent and emerging adult health and development in national and international contexts. It analyzes cultural, socio-emotional, and health related aspects of youth development from multiple disciplinary perspectives, including anthropology, education, public health, psychology, and sociology. The course critically examines existing research on youth and its underlying assumptions, research methodologies, and findings. It further demonstrates the application of ethnographic and qualitative methodologies to the study of youth culture, differentiating anthropological approaches from those of other social science disciplines.

ANTH 3379. Archaeogaming.

This course explores video games and related technologies from an archaeological perspective. Using games to analyze cultural information, it critically evaluates game design choices, player interactions, and digital technologies to virtually reconstruct archaeological sites. Specific topics include games as historical artifacts, digital documentation of cultural heritage, use of virtual reconstructions as public outreach, and cultural representation in video games. Theorizing games from an archaeological perspective, it highlights the relationships between technology, culture, and society.

ANTH 3380. Introduction to Forensic Anthropology.

This course provides an introduction to forensic anthropology, a specialized area of biological anthropology concerned with the scientific analysis of human remains in legal and investigative contexts. The course examines the historical development, theoretical foundations, and methodological approaches used in the field, with attention to their application within medicolegal death investigation systems. The course evaluates how forensic anthropological techniques contribute to the identification of human remains and the interpretation of skeletal evidence. The course also considers the professional roles, responsibilities, and practical challenges encountered by forensic anthropologists working in applied settings.

ANTH 3381. Human Osteology.

This course involves detailed examination of the elements of the human skeleton, with emphasis on identifying individual bones and teeth and their anatomical features. The course addresses the application of this knowledge to the identification of fragmentary skeletal elements and the siding of both complete and incomplete remains. Topics include osteological terminology, bone biology, skeletal variation, and the structure and function of the human skeleton. Analytical approaches to the study of skeletal remains are considered, along with issues related to preservation, recovery, and interpretation. Students also examine ethical standards governing the handling of human skeletal material. The course situates osteological analysis within forensic and archaeological contexts.

ANTH 3382. Archaeology of Ice Age America.

This course draws upon archaeological, biological, linguistic, and environmental evidence to reconstruct the earliest human prehistory of the Americas. Precisely when the first people arrived in the Americas, where they came from, and how they got here are the subjects of longstanding and ongoing debate. This course will explore the natural environments of the Ice Age and review known Paleoindian cultures such as Clovis, Folsom, Plainview, and Cody, as well as archaeological sites that may predate them.

ANTH 3383. Southeastern Archaeology.

This course is a study of the social and cultural history of Indigenous communities in the Southeastern US from ancient times to the present through archaeological and ethnohistorical research. It centers on the Southeast with a focus on Eastern Texas from the Paleoindian to Historic Periods and surveys archaeological perspectives to interpret Indigenous cultural development across time and space. Topics include regional cultural traditions, the independent invention of pottery, impact of corn agriculture, and the development of complex Precolumbian sociopolitical systems.

ANTH 4303. Introduction to Phonetics and Phonology.

This course offers an in-depth introduction to the study of human speech sounds, combining theoretical foundations with practical analysis. It examines the physical mechanisms of sound production, the acoustic properties of speech, and the perceptual processes involved in understanding spoken language. The course introduces core principles of phonology, emphasizing the categorization, contrast, and organization of speech sounds within linguistic systems. It provides training in the transcription of speech using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) and applies basic acoustic analysis techniques to explore key concepts. Coverage also extends to instrumental, clinical, forensic, and socio-phonetic perspectives on speech.

ANTH 4304. Language, Culture and Society.

This course introduces students to the study of the complex relationships among language, culture, and social institutions. It examines how linguistic practices—and the social variation of grammar and lexicon—operate within and across communities, across time and place, and in relation to social categories such as ethnicity, class, and identity. The course presents major theories in language, culture, and society; explores methodological approaches for studying language in its social context; and engages with current debates surrounding language variation and change.

ANTH 4309. Culture, Medicine and the Body.

This course explores how the human body, functions of the body, and the practices of medicine and healing are situated and contextualized within cultural frameworks. The course examines key anthropological concepts related to culture, medicine, and the body, such as medicalization, biocultural disease, medicine and technology, biomedicine as culture, the social body, cross-cultural healing systems, and the experience of illness. Case studies cover body and health-related topics over the life course, from birth to death.

ANTH 4310. History of Anthropological Thought.

This course surveys the major philosophical traditions that have shaped the intellectual development of cultural anthropology from the nineteenth century to the present. It explores foundational theories and frameworks that anthropologists have used to interpret culture and society within the historical and intellectual contexts in which they developed. Attention is given to the comparison of key paradigms and methodological approaches that connect different areas of anthropological inquiry and analysis and continue to influence contemporary scholarship and practice. Prerequisite: ANTH 1312 with a grade of "D" or better.

ANTH 4315. Archaeological Artifact Identification and Analysis.

This course identifies, describes and demonstrates how to analyze prehistoric and/or historic artifacts commonly recovered from archaeological sites in Texas and surrounding regions. This course identifies the diagnostic attributes of prehistoric stone tool types, prehistoric ceramics vessels and a variety of historic artifacts. Current theories explaining the production and analysis of chipped and ground stone tools, ceramics, bone and other materials are discussed. The methods of scientific artifact analysis are demonstrated. (WI).

ANTH 4320. Rise of Civilization.

This course examines the origins and development of complex societies around the world using archaeological evidence and cross-cultural comparison. The major transitions in human history are analyzed, including the shift to agriculture, urbanism, social stratification, and state formation. The course evaluates key theories explaining why civilizations emerged and explores case studies from around the world, such as Mesopotamia, Egypt, the Indus Valley, China, the Aegean, Mesoamerica, and the Andes. Emphasis is placed on archaeological methods, interpretive frameworks, and the various cultural pathways through which complexity developed.

ANTH 4326. Field Methods in Forensic Anthropology.

This course introduces field methods used in forensic anthropology to locate, document, excavate, and recover human remains and associated materials from outdoor contexts. The course addresses procedures for surface and subsurface detection, spatial recording, evidentiary control, and legal considerations in recovery contexts. Emphasis is placed on systematic documentation techniques, including mapping, photography, and controlled excavation, as well as biosafety protocols relevant to the recovery of human remains. The course situates these methods within forensic and medico-legal investigative frameworks. Prerequisite: ANTH 3381 with a grade of "D" or better.

ANTH 4337. Theory in Linguistic Anthropology.

This course introduces students to the major theoretical traditions that have shaped linguistic anthropology. As the anthropological study of language and speech, linguistic anthropology draws on a wide range of influential thinkers, frameworks, and debates. It will engage directly with foundational texts and explore how key ideas have guided the development of linguistic inquiry over time. Through close reading, discussion, and critical analysis, the course traces the evolution of theoretical perspectives across different eras and examines their impact on contemporary research. This course offers a solid understanding of the central theories, questions, and intellectual trajectories that define the field. Prerequisites: ANTH 1312 or ANTH 3302 either with a grade of "D" or better.

ANTH 4339. Theoretical Concepts in Archaeology.

This course provides a broad survey of theory in archaeology, with an emphasis on its development and practice in the United States. The course examines the philosophical and historical foundations of archaeology from the eighteenth century to the present. It explores the theoretical frameworks used to interpret material remains of past societies and the intellectual contexts in which they emerged. Attention is given to the application of theory in contemporary archaeological research and interpretation. Prerequisite: ANTH 2302 with a grade of "D" or better.

ANTH 4360. Directed Study.

This course offers an opportunity for individualized advanced study in a specialized area of anthropology under faculty supervision. It emphasizes independent research, critical reading, and analytical writing that foster intellectual initiative and proficiency in anthropological research. The course involves the design and completion of a focused project addressing anthropological theories, methods, or ethnographic contexts. Regular meetings with the instructor provide structured guidance, formative feedback, and the integration of diverse anthropological perspectives throughout the research and writing process.

ANTH 4361. Qualitative Research Methods.

This course explores qualitative research methods in anthropology and ethnography. It demonstrates how to formulate research questions, design qualitative projects, assess research ethics, and systematically collect and analyze qualitative data. Topics include fieldnote, participant observation, interview, survey, coding, and analysis methods. These methods are taught through a field research project that integrates course concepts with experiential learning. Through workshops, fieldwork activities, and collaborative inquiry, the course offers practical experience generating, interpreting, and presenting qualitative findings.

ANTH 4363. Methods in Primate Research.

This course examines methods used in the scientific study of primate behavior in captive and field settings, with emphasis on hypothesis formulation, research design, behavioral observation, and data analysis. Behavioral data will be collected and analyzed using established sampling and recording rules, and scientific research reports will be produced. The course introduces standard ethological techniques and methodological frameworks used in primatology and provides practical experience in observational research and scientific writing within laboratory and field-based contexts. This course includes discussions of setting up field sites, long-term projects, and community engagement in host countries.

ANTH 4381. Paleopathology.

This course examines human health and disease in past populations through the analysis of skeletal remains and archaeological evidence. The course surveys paleopathological methods used to identify and interpret pathological conditions, including infectious, metabolic, developmental, and traumatic processes. Emphasis is placed on the classification of skeletal lesions, the evaluation of differential diagnoses, and the interpretation of disease within broader temporal and environmental contexts. The course also addresses variation in health patterns across populations and the methodological challenges associated with reconstructing past disease processes from skeletal evidence.

ANTH 4382. Methods in Skeletal Biology.

This course examines methods used to analyze human skeletal remains from forensic and archaeological contexts. The course addresses procedures for skeletal inventory and the construction of the biological profile, including estimation of age, sex, population affinity, and stature. Emphasis is placed on osteological measurement standards, data collection protocols, and theoretical frameworks in skeletal biology. Additional topics include sources of variation in skeletal populations, comparative approaches to analysis, and the integration of multiple lines of evidence in interpretation. Analytical methods are considered alongside issues of methodological limitation. The course situates skeletal analysis within broader professional and research contexts in forensic anthropology and bioarchaeology. Prerequisite: ANTH 3381 with a grade of "D" or better.

ANTH 4390. Internship in Anthropology.

This course provides experiential learning opportunities for students in a variety of professional settings aligned with their interests. Students engage in hands-on experience through the application of anthropological methods, concepts, and skills in professional contexts. The course requires completion of an applied work experience totaling approximately 120 hours. Emphasis is placed on connecting academic training to professional practice, documenting applied work, and reflecting on the use of anthropological approaches in workplace settings. Prerequisites: Minimum 2.5 Major GPA and instructor approval.

ANTH 4630. Archaeological Field School.

This course provides training in the practical skills and techniques used during systematic archaeological survey and excavation of prehistoric or historic sites. It affords immersive, hands-on experience in site, artifact, and feature mapping and documentation, as well as opportunities to practice effective teamwork in field settings. The course introduces standard archaeological field methods and techniques using equipment currently employed in cultural resource management. May be repeated for credit, but only six hours may be applied toward the major.

ANTH 5199B. Thesis B.

This course provides structured, comprehensive guidance and support for the design, implementation, and writing of the master’s thesis. It emphasizes the development of rigorous and appropriate research plans, the systematic analysis of data, and the production of well‑organized scholarly writing that meets disciplinary and professional standards of excellence. Instruction also addresses preparation for the formal oral defense of the completed thesis. Continuous enrollment in the course is required each long semester until all thesis requirements have been fully satisfied.

ANTH 5299B. Thesis B.

This course provides structured, comprehensive guidance and support for the design, implementation, and writing of the master’s thesis. It emphasizes the development of rigorous and appropriate research plans, the systematic analysis of data, and the production of well‑organized scholarly writing that meets disciplinary and professional standards of excellence. Instruction also addresses preparation for the formal oral defense of the completed thesis. Continuous enrollment in the course is required each long semester until all thesis requirements have been fully satisfied.

ANTH 5301. Advanced Cultural Theory.

This course examines advanced theoretical and methodological approaches in cultural anthropology, focusing on how anthropological knowledge is produced, debated, and revised. It surveys a range of contemporary frameworks, including ontological, postcolonial, feminist, materialist, political-economic, environmental, experimental, and digital approaches for interpreting cultural phenomena. Thematic emphases may vary by semester, allowing students to engage with leading-edge research and ongoing debates that are shaping the discipline.

ANTH 5302. Teaching Anthropology.

This course introduces key concepts and practices in the teaching of college-level anthropology. It provides training in the practical aspects of classroom instruction, including instructional planning, classroom management, and student engagement. Topics include university policies, use of instructional technologies, development of teaching materials, and approaches to supporting student learning. Students examine teaching strategies, mentoring practices, and communication methods relevant to academic settings. The course also addresses the development of course syllabi and instructional delivery in higher education contexts.

ANTH 5303. Speech Analysis.

This course provides students with theoretical grounding in the major intellectual traditions that have shaped linguistic anthropology. By examining foundational texts and influential debates, students gain the analytical tools needed to understand how linguistic practices are studied within broader cultural and social frameworks. Through close reading, discussion, and analysis, the course traces the historical development of key theoretical perspectives and evaluates their impact on contemporary research.

ANTH 5304. Language, Culture, and Society.

This course introduces students to the examination of the intricate relationships between language, culture, and social institutions. The course investigates how linguistic practices, the social variation of language use (grammar and lexicon) within and across communities, across time and place, and in relation to social categories such as ethnicity, class, and identity. The course introduces major theories in language, culture, and society, explores methodological approaches used to study language in its social context, and evaluates empirical research on linguistic variation and change.

ANTH 5305. Anthropological Statistics.

This course provides graduate students with a basic understanding of probability theory, descriptive statistics and inferential univariate and bivariate statistical methods commonly used in social sciences. The course introduces students to hypothesis testing and the application of parametric and nonparametric procedures widely used in scientific inquiry. It illustrates how to use the appropriate statistical tests with different types of numerical data. Students utilized statistical formulae to demonstrate the assumptions required for each test, the limitations of the results and appropriate interpretations of those data.

ANTH 5306. Anthropology and Art.

This course uses techniques from cultural anthropology, art history, and archaeology to investigate the function of art and symbolism in human cultures and societies. It explores intersections between anthropological theory, material culture, and artistic expression. Topics may include foundational works in the anthropology of art, the role of art in human evolution, aesthetics across cultures, iconographic interpretation, the intersection of art and politics in past and present cultures, iconoclasm and aniconism, architecture, and dress and ornament.

ANTH 5307. History of Evolutionary Thought.

This course examines the historical development of evolutionary thought before and after the publication of Darwin’s On the Origin of Species (1859). It explores pre-Darwinian perspectives on biological change, Darwin’s contributions, and the development of natural selection theory. The course addresses the Modern Evolutionary Synthesis, including the integration of genetics, and examines how evolutionary theory has been interpreted in relation to concepts such as race and eugenics. Emphasis is placed on the scientific, historical, and intellectual contexts that have shaped evolutionary theory and its role in contemporary science.

ANTH 5308. Cultural Resource Management.

This course explores the complexities of Cultural Resource Management (CRM) through analysis of case studies, legislation, and industry standards. Students examine the intersection of law, policy, and practice in CRM and assess theoretical and methodological approaches applied to real-world scenarios. The course examines professional roles within CRM, including project planning, community engagement, and regulatory compliance, with attention to management strategies used to address complex cultural resource issues in Texas and comparative jurisdictions. Emphasis is placed on evaluating regulatory frameworks and documented outcomes across public and private sector projects nationally and internationally.

ANTH 5309. Culture, Medicine and the Body.

This course explores how the human body, functions of the body, and the practices of medicine and healing are situated and contextualized within cultural frameworks. The course examines key anthropological concepts related to culture, medicine, and the body, such as medicalization, biocultural disease, medicine and technology, biomedicine as culture, the social body, cross-cultural healing systems, and the experience of illness. Case studies cover body and health-related topics over the life course, from birth to death.

ANTH 5311. Seminar in Cultural Anthropology.

This course provides an advanced survey of the historical foundations and development of cultural anthropology, with emphasis on major theories, central debates, and methodological approaches. Topics include evolutionism, functionalism, structuralism, ethnoscience, neo‑Marxism, modernity, and postmodernism, explored through classic texts and ethnographic case studies. The course highlights connections between foundational theoretical perspectives and contemporary anthropological practice, providing analytical tools for interpreting culture, meaning, and power within global and historical contexts while situating anthropology’s intellectual legacy in relation to broader social transformations.

ANTH 5312. Seminar in Biological Anthropology.

This course examines the historical foundations, core theories, and methodological approaches of biological anthropology through its major subfields, including primatology, paleoanthropology, skeletal biology, and human variation. Topics include analysis of classic and contemporary scholarship to understand how biological anthropologists investigate evolutionary processes, human origins, primate behavior, and patterns of population diversity. Emphasis is placed on evaluating research design, interpreting major theoretical frameworks and methodological approaches, analyzing empirical evidence, and situating scientific findings within broader anthropological questions. Class discussions, readings, and student‑led analyses provide opportunities to examine theoretical debates, methodological challenges, and the development of the discipline over time.

ANTH 5313. Seminar in Archaeology.

This course provides graduate-level instruction in the historical development of archaeology, major theoretical frameworks, methodological approaches, and representative case studies from Old World and New World contexts. Emphasis is placed on understanding how archaeological knowledge is produced, evaluated, and applied within anthropology. The course provides students from all subfields with a shared foundation in archaeological scholarship and prepares archaeology students for advanced research by situating their work within broader disciplinary debates and practices.

ANTH 5314. Latin American Cultures.

This course surveys Latin American cultures through regional, historical, and ethnographic perspectives. It examines social organization, cultural expression, and systems of belief across communities throughout the region. Particular attention is given to how geography, historical processes, and local traditions shape social identities, political formations, and nationalist projects. Ethnographic case studies as well as literature, art, music, popular culture, and other multimedia sources are used to situate cultural dynamics within broader regional, hemispheric, and global contexts.

ANTH 5315. Archaeological Artifact Identification and Analysis.

This course provides students with the skills, knowledge, and ability to describe, characterize, and analyze artifacts commonly recovered from archaeological sites. Current theories covering the production and analysis of chipped and ground stone tools, ceramics, bone, and other materials are presented, and scientific analytical methods are discussed. Practical experience is gained through the analysis of prehistoric artifacts, including the design and implementation of attribute-based analytical coding systems and the statistical analysis of collected data.

ANTH 5316. The Origin and Evolution of Human Behavior.

This course presents our current understanding of Old World Paleolithic Archaeology. The origin and evolution of hominid behavior, the initial colonization of the Old World, and the development of modern human behavior will be discussed for each continent. (Stacked course with ANTH 3316).

ANTH 5317. Methods in Rock Art Documentation and Analysis.

This course examines archaeological methods used to document, analyze, and interpret rock art, with a regional focus on the Lower Pecos Canyonlands of southwest Texas. Instruction integrates fieldwork and laboratory training in the recording, processing, and management of archaeological documentation. Field activities introduce digital photography, panoramic imaging, photogrammetry, sketch mapping, GPS, iconographic inventories, and written site records. Lectures and readings survey theoretical and methodological approaches in rock art research and hunter-gatherer archaeology, while encouraging students to engage publications critically and evaluate how different forms of archaeological evidence are used to assess and compare interpretations of rock art imagery.

ANTH 5318. Archaeology of Texas’ Ancient Cultures.

This course presents current interpretations and ongoing debates regarding the archaeological record in Texas and introduces the variety of evidence archaeologists use to understand ancient cultures in the region. Texas has been a continental crossroads throughout its human history, linking varied terrain, climate, ecology, and cultural adaptations. The course surveys evidence for diverse ancient lifeways practiced over more than 13,000 years of Texas history in the context of broader cultural patterns across North America.

ANTH 5320. Rise of Civilization.

This course examines the origins and development of complex societies around the world using archaeological evidence and cross-cultural comparison. The major transitions in human history are analyzed, including the shift to agriculture, urbanism, social stratification, and state formation. The course evaluates key theories that explain why civilizations emerged and explores case studies from around the world, including Mesopotamia, Egypt, the Indus Valley, China, the Aegean, Mesoamerica, and the Andes. Emphasis is placed on archaeological methods, interpretive frameworks, and the various cultural pathways through which complexity developed.

ANTH 5322. Peoples and Cultures of Africa.

This course offers a balanced exploration of Africa’s diverse peoples, cultures, and histories within their local, national, and global contexts. It examines the geography, social organization, political systems, religious practices, daily life, and youth culture as windows into broader processes of continuity and change. Combining ethnographic case studies, theoretical analysis, literary expression, and visual media, the course develops critical perspectives on how anthropologists interpret cultural diversity, social transformation, and human adaptation across the African continent.

ANTH 5324. Mexican American Culture.

This course examines scholarly interpretations of the social and historical processes shaping Mexican American culture, with a focus on anthropological and interdisciplinary perspectives on the U.S.-Mexico borderlands. It analyzes the cultural history of the transborder region and explores cultural practices, community and political formations, migration histories, and expressive traditions as subjects of historical and ethnographic inquiry. Areas of study include visual art, music, film, and performance, considered as cultural texts that reflect broader social, regional, and transnational dynamics.

ANTH 5325. Medical Anthropology.

This course examines how understandings of health and illness are shaped by cultural beliefs, environmental conditions, and social contexts. It explores how human adaptation to local environments shapes patterns of health and disease, and analyzes how political and economic structures affect health outcomes and health-related practices. The course presents key perspectives from medical anthropology, including cross-cultural approaches to healing and the social dimensions of disease. It also investigates how global and local forces interact to shape health care systems and medical decision-making.

ANTH 5333. Research Design in Biological Anthropology.

This course introduces students to the principles and processes by which research projects in biological anthropology are devised, implemented, and communicated. Topics examined include how to identify and refine a research topic, define its scope and limitations, develop a focused peer-reviewed bibliography, and elaborate a coherent research design. Emphasis is placed on aligning research questions, hypotheses, variables, sampling strategies, data collection methods, and analytical approaches. Through readings, discussions, and structured assignments, the course addresses evaluation of ethical considerations, application of professional citation practices, and integration of advisor feedback into a complete thesis proposal.

ANTH 5336. Locally Engaged Research.

This course examines the practice of applied anthropological research through authentic collaborative partnerships with organizations and local communities. It introduces principles of organizational and community-based participatory research, oral history and archival methods, and qualitative data collection and analysis. The focus is on designing a semester-long project with a local community partner that addresses a unique research situation or problem, using professional standards for ethical collaboration, project planning, data management, and the production of public-facing deliverables.

ANTH 5337. Theory in Linguistic Anthropology.

This course examines the major theoretical traditions that have informed linguistic anthropology, emphasizing how key thinkers and debates have shaped the field. Students engage closely with foundational texts to understand the development of linguistic inquiry across historical periods. Through reading and discussion, the course traces the evolution of theoretical perspectives and their impact on contemporary research. The course provides students with a clear grounding in the central questions, analytical frameworks, and intellectual trajectories that define linguistic anthropology.

ANTH 5338. Principles and Practice of Geoarchaeology.

This course provides the skill, knowledge and ability to interpret sediments, record sediment and soil profiles, and the context of archaeological materials at archaeological sites. The course outlines the processes of fluvial, cryogenic and eolian sedimentary processes and natural depositional environments, weathering and erosion processes, soil formation and development, stratigraphic analysis, archaeological site formation processes and landscape analysis. The nature of stratigraphic systems including lithostratigraphy, pedostratigraphy and allostratigraphy are discussed along with relative and absolute dating methods.

ANTH 5339. Theoretical Concepts in Archaeology.

This course provides a broad survey of theory in archaeology, with an emphasis on how it is practiced in the United States. It examines the philosophical and historical foundations of archaeology from the eighteenth century to the present. The course explores the theories and frameworks used to interpret the material remains of past societies, as well as the historical and intellectual contexts in which they developed. Attention is placed on the use of theory in contemporary archaeology.

ANTH 5340. Paleoanthropology.

Critical review of the human fossil record from the appearance of the earliest hominins to the appearance of modern human forms. (Stacked course with ANTH 3340.).

ANTH 5341. Human Anatomy and Function.

This course introduces the structure and function of the human body through a regional approach to gross anatomy. Topics include major organ systems and anatomical relationships using texts, visual media, and online laboratory resources. Emphasis is placed on understanding anatomical terminology, spatial organization, and the structural features of the thorax, abdomen, pelvis, limbs, head, and neck. The course also addresses functional principles that relate anatomical form to physiological actions. This course provides foundational skills in identifying structures, describing spatial and functional relationships, and interpreting anatomical images used in scientific and health-related fields.

ANTH 5342. Primate Behavior.

This course provides an overview of the behavior and ecology of nonhuman primates, including lemurs, lorises, tarsiers, monkeys, and apes. It examines the taxonomy of the Order Primates, including the biological features that characterize different taxa. The course introduces principles of behavioral ecology and surveys variation in feeding ecology, social behavior, predation, and ranging patterns across primate groups. It also addresses the effects of anthropogenic change on living nonhuman primates.

ANTH 5343. Human Variation and Adaptation.

This course examines human biological variation and adaptation from an evolutionary perspective, with emphasis on the mechanisms that generate and structure variation within and among populations. The course analyzes genetic, environmental, and developmental factors influencing phenotypic and genotypic variation and evaluates methodological approaches used to study human variation. Emphasis is placed on population history, evolutionary processes, and the interpretation of biological data in anthropological contexts. The course also addresses applications of human variation research in areas such as forensic anthropology and population studies.

ANTH 5345. Archaeology of Mesoamerica.

This course examines the development of complex societies in Mesoamerica from the earliest hunter-gatherers, through the rise and fall of major civilizations, into the early Colonial period. It explores key archaeological evidence for the origins of agriculture, urbanism, writing systems, ritual practices, ancient economies, and the development of states. Emphasis is placed on interpreting material culture, iconography, and settlement patterns within broader anthropological frameworks. The course highlights cultural achievements, environmental adaptations, and interregional interactions both within Mesoamerica and with other parts of the Americas.

ANTH 5346. Bioarchaeology.

This course examines the analysis of human skeletal remains within archaeological contexts, with emphasis on graduate-level engagement with bioarchaeological theory and method. Analytical approaches used to reconstruct patterns of subsistence, diet, disease, demography, biological relatedness, physical activity, and mortuary behavior in past populations are critically evaluated. Emphasis is placed on methodological rigor, interpretation of complex datasets, and critical assessment of bioarchaeological literature. Additional attention is given to ethical considerations, comparative case studies, and the integration of skeletal, archaeological, and contextual evidence in the reconstruction of past human lifeways.

ANTH 5347. Archaeology of North America.

This course surveys human settlement of North America from the end of the Pleistocene to the early historic period, spanning approximately 13,000 years. It examines how archaeologists study the past using evidence from the archaeological record. The course considers early hunter-gatherer occupations of Arctic, Plains, and forested regions from the Pacific to the Atlantic coasts, as well as changes in economic strategies and social organization over time. It also examines the development of agricultural systems associated with societies such as the Adena, Hopewell, and Mississippian traditions in the Southeast and the Mogollon, Hohokam, and Ancestral Puebloan traditions in the Southwest.

ANTH 5348. Cultural Heritage Management.

This course explores the principles, practices, and contemporary challenges of cultural heritage management at local, national, and international scales. It examines legal and ethical frameworks, including state and federal heritage legislation, international conventions, repatriation, and stakeholder engagement with descendant communities. Emphasis is placed on the integration of archaeological data, ethnographic perspectives, public outreach, tourism impacts, and strategies for sustainable preservation amid development pressures and global threats. The course addresses professional contexts in government agencies, consulting firms, museums, and heritage organizations.

ANTH 5349. The Incas.

This course examines the origin, development, and expansion of the Incas, one of the largest empires in the pre-Columbian Americas, which covered much of western South America. Using archaeological, historical, and ethnographic information, the class analyzes and interprets the social, political, and belief systems that shaped this civilization. Topics include the origins of Inca society, political expansion, military strategies, religion, economic systems, art, systems of governance, the quipu recording device, and Spanish colonialism.

ANTH 5350. Gender and Sexuality in Global Perspective.

This course examines historical and contemporary research on gender and sexuality from global and comparative perspectives within anthropology and related fields. It surveys key theoretical concepts, methodological approaches, and interpretive frameworks used to analyze how gender and sexuality are conceptualized, organized, and regulated across different social, cultural, and historical contexts worldwide. The course examines ethnographic and comparative studies that address variation in bodily practices, identity, kinship, labor, power, and social regulation. Emphasis is placed on anthropological approaches to gender and sexuality through the examination of case studies from across the globe.

ANTH 5351. Anthropology of Peace and Violence.

This course focuses on the cultural, political, and institutional conditions that shape how aid, protection, and care are conceptualized and implemented. It surveys anthropological research on peace and violence, and how international relations, local contexts, social dynamics, and policy environments in addressing conflict, displacement, public health emergencies, and environmental disasters.

ANTH 5352. Research Design in Archaeology.

This course offers a structured approach to conceiving, organizing, and preparing a research proposal for an MA thesis in archaeology. It provides instruction in critical thinking, research design, and methodological approaches, with a focus on formulating research questions, conducting background research, and selecting appropriate methods. Emphasis is placed on both theoretical and practical aspects of archaeological research design, including the development of literature reviews, hypothesis formulation, and alignment of methods with research objectives. The course addresses the organization and presentation of research proposals within disciplinary standards.

ANTH 5353. Applied Cultural Anthropology.

This course explores applications of cultural anthropology to contemporary issues across a range of professional contexts, including user design, market and consumer research, and program evaluation. It examines the history, scope, and development of applied anthropology and reviews the methods used to address social and organizational questions. The course provides opportunities to practice ethnographic data collection and analysis through structured activities and assignments. Emphasis is placed on the use of anthropological perspectives and methods in applied settings, including the preparation of written and analytical outputs consistent with professional standards.

ANTH 5356. Andean Archaeology.

This course examines the archaeology of ancient societies in the Andean region of South America through a chronological exploration of cultural developments. It analyzes major transitions beginning with the earliest human presence, early hunter-gatherer communities, the domestication of plants and animals, the rise of complex societies, and the emergence of states and empires. Several cultures are studied including Chavín, Moche, Nasca, Wari, Tiwanaku, Chimú, and Inca. Emphasis is placed on archaeological evidence, interpretive debates, and regional patterns of political, economic, and religious organization.

ANTH 5357. Historical Archaeology.

This course provides an advanced survey of the theories, methods, and practices of historical archaeology, with emphasis on current scholarly debates and methodological approaches. It examines case studies from diverse historical and geographic contexts to analyze relationships between past societies and material culture. Through critical reading, discussion, and analysis of recent research, the course explores interpretive frameworks used in the discipline. Practical exercises introduce the identification and analysis of historical artifacts from Texas and North America within broader comparative contexts.

ANTH 5358. Curation of Archaeological Materials.

This course provides in-depth training in the theory, ethics, and advanced techniques of curating archaeological materials. It explores conservation science, long-term stabilization and preservation of organic and inorganic artifacts, collections assessment, exhibit design, inventory management, risk mitigation, and digital documentation strategies. Emphasis is placed on addressing the curation crisis, repository standards, compliance with federal and state regulations, and integrating collections into research, public outreach, and descendant-community engagement. The course addresses professional practices in museums, repositories, cultural resource management, and academic contexts related to cultural heritage stewardship.

ANTH 5361. Qualitative Methods.

This course examines qualitative research methods central to anthropological inquiry. It addresses the design of qualitative research projects and the collection of ethnographic data through interviews, participant observation, focus groups, and related field-based approaches. The course explores interpretive strategies for analyzing qualitative materials, including coding, thematic analysis, and the contextual interpretation of social practices and cultural meanings. Attention is given to methodological rigor, reflexivity, and ethical considerations in fieldwork. The course also considers the presentation and evaluation of qualitative research and the accessibility of research findings to different audiences.

ANTH 5373J. Dental Anthropology and Oral Biology.

This course examines the biological development of craniofacial and dental structures using anthropological and biological approaches. Emphasis is placed on hard tissue anatomy, dental histology, and analytical methods used to identify variation and disease in living and archaeological populations. Dental traits are examined in relation to evolutionary processes and population history. The course also introduces forensic applications that support the identification and interpretation of human remains. The course emphasizes critical evaluation of dental evidence and scholarly analysis.

ANTH 5373M. Design + Anthropology.

This course begins by examining human relationships with materials, technologies, infrastructures, and environments as a foundation for understanding how people design the objects and spaces they inhabit. It then analyzes design as a professional field and everyday practice, including histories and practices of design and their connections to social and economic systems. The course also explores theories, methods, and career pathways in design anthropology—demonstrating how anthropologists provide actionable insights for design in organizational and other settings.

ANTH 5373O. Seminar on Race in Biological Anthropology.

In this course students will learn where race concepts originated, examining the worldview and scientific mindsets that guided us into the 21st century. Students will explore how social race has become biological, drawing on literature from biological anthropology. Most importantly, students will explore pragmatic solutions in the context of anthropology research. Students will leave the course with an in-depth understanding of the role anthropology has played in current concepts of race and develop an informed scientific practice that they can apply.

ANTH 5373P. Science, Technologies, & Organizations.

This course explores the intersection of science, technology, and organizations through foundational theories, concepts, and methods in science and technology studies (STS) and organizational anthropology. It will examine concepts like objectivity, facts, authority, policy, infrastructure, and organizational power. The course highlights STS perspectives to investigate how culture and social structures influence knowledge, technology, and organizations. By exploring these relationships, the course emphasizes how anthropologists apply and justify anthropological perspectives in multidisciplinary teams and organizations beyond academic settings.

ANTH 5373Q. Applied Multivariate Statistics.

This course introduces the concepts of multivariate statistical methods commonly applied to anthropological research, including multiple regression, principal components analysis, factor analysis, and discriminant function analysis. Topics covered include how to prepare data, select suitable analytical techniques, and interpret results using statistical programming software. Instruction emphasizes methodological accuracy, reproducibility, and clear reporting practices. Through applied examples, this course provides experience evaluating the strengths and limitations of multivariate approaches in addressing research questions across different areas of anthropology. All techniques are presented as analytical tools intended to support evidence-based reasoning and quantitative inquiry.

ANTH 5375. Advanced Methods in Skeletal Biology, Part I.

This course focuses on advanced laboratory analytical techniques and data collection methods used to estimate the biological profile of modern, historic, and prehistoric human skeletal remains. Emphasis is placed on systematic observation, measurement, and documentation of skeletal indicators used in forensic anthropology and bioarchaeology. The course applies established methods to assess biological characteristics and critically evaluate methodological limitations, sources of error, and interpretive frameworks used in skeletal analysis.

ANTH 5376. Advanced Methods in Skeletal Biology, Part II.

This course focuses on technical case report writing and evidentiary best practices in forensic anthropological analysis of human skeletal remains. In addition to biological profile estimation techniques, research methods and theoretical foundations used for trauma analysis and taphonomic interpretation are reviewed and critically evaluated. Jurisdictional authority, evidence handling, chain of custody, reporting responsibilities, and recovery methods are also examined. Emphasis is placed on professional standards, methodological rigor, interpretation of complex case evidence, and the integration of analytical findings within medicolegal investigative contexts. Prerequisite: ANTH 5375 with a grade of "C" or better.

ANTH 5379. Archaeogaming.

This course explores video games and related technologies from an archaeological perspective. Using games to analyze cultural information, it critically evaluates game design choices, player interactions, and digital technologies to virtually reconstruct archaeological sites. Specific topics include games as historical artifacts, digital documentation of cultural heritage, use of virtual reconstructions as public outreach, and cultural representation in video games. Theorizing games from an archaeological perspective, this course highlights the relationships between technology, culture, and society.

ANTH 5381. Paleopathology.

This course examines human health and disease in past populations through the analysis of skeletal remains and archaeological evidence. The course surveys the historical development of paleopathology, reviews methodological challenges in identifying and interpreting skeletal pathology, and analyzes abnormal bone biology across major disease categories. Emphasis is placed on the classification of skeletal lesions, the evaluation of differential diagnoses, and the interpretation of disease within demographic, temporal, and cross-cultural contexts. The course also addresses theoretical approaches to reconstructing health and disease in past populations.

ANTH 5382. Archaeology of the Earliest Americans.

This course draws upon archaeological, biological, linguistic, and environmental evidence to understand the earliest human prehistory of the Americas. Questions concerning when the first people arrived, where they came from, and how they migrated are examined through ongoing scholarly debate. The course explores the natural environments of the Late Pleistocene and reviews known Paleoindian cultures such as Clovis, Folsom, Plainview, and Cody, as well as archaeological sites that may predate them.

ANTH 5383. Southeastern Archaeology.

This course is a study of the social and cultural history of Indigenous communities in the Southeastern US from ancient times to the present through archaeological and ethnohistorical research. It centers on the Southeast with a focus on Eastern Texas from the Paleoindian to Historic Periods and surveys archaeological perspectives to interpret Indigenous cultural development across time and space. Topics include regional cultural traditions, the independent invention of pottery, impact of corn agriculture, and the development of complex Precolumbian sociopolitical systems.

ANTH 5385. Specialized Studies in Anthropology.

This course surveys advanced topics in anthropology selected by the instructor, offering the opportunity to explore specialized research areas. It includes study of advanced scholarly literature, evaluation of competing interpretations, and consideration of how methodological and theoretical approaches shape anthropological knowledge. Emphasis is placed on critical reading, discussion, and academic writing, as well as analysis of how anthropologists construct arguments and interpret evidence. The course incorporates discussion, written analysis, and related assignments to support engagement with specialized topics.

ANTH 5390. Directed Study.

This course offers an opportunity for individualized advanced study in a specialized area of anthropology under faculty supervision. It emphasizes independent research, critical reading, and analytical writing that foster intellectual initiative and graduate-level proficiency in anthropological research. The course involves the design and completion of a focused project addressing anthropological theories, methods, or ethnographic contexts. Regular meetings with the instructor provide structured guidance, formative feedback, and the integration of diverse anthropological perspectives throughout the research and writing process.

ANTH 5395. Externship in Anthropology.

This course integrates applied anthropology with supervised experiential learning in professional settings outside the university. It includes structured externships in public or private organizations, allowing students to engage with anthropological methods and concepts in applied contexts. Emphasis is placed on connecting academic knowledge with observational and analytical activities in organizational environments. The course includes documentation of activities, reflection on applied methods, and evaluation of anthropological approaches in professional contexts. Each externship involves approximately 120 hours of supervised experience and may be repeated for credit. Prerequisite: Instructor approval.

ANTH 5399A. Thesis.

This course provides structured guidance for the initiation of the master’s thesis. It focuses on refining research questions, formulating appropriate methodological plans, and developing written work that meets disciplinary standards within specific anthropological subfields. Instruction emphasizes research design, data organization, analytical decision‑making, and professional scientific writing conventions. As the first course in a two‑part thesis sequence, it establishes a feasible project framework and supports the production of early thesis materials that form the foundation for continued work in ANTH 5309B.

ANTH 5399B. Thesis B.

This course provides structured support for the design, implementation, and writing of the master’s thesis. It emphasizes the development of appropriate research plans, the analysis of data, and the production of well‑organized scholarly writing that meets disciplinary and professional standards of excellence. Instruction also addresses preparation for the oral defense of the completed thesis. Continuous enrollment in the course is required each long semester until all thesis requirements have been fully satisfied.

ANTH 5599B. Thesis B.

This course provides guidance and support for the design, implementation, and writing of the master’s thesis. It emphasizes the development of appropriate research plans, the analysis of data, and the production of well-organized scholarly writing that meets disciplinary and professional standards. Instruction also addresses preparation for the oral defense of the completed thesis. Continuous enrollment in a Thesis B course is required each long semester until all thesis requirements have been fully satisfied.

ANTH 5999B. Thesis.

This course provides guidance and support for the design, implementation, and writing of the master’s thesis. It emphasizes the development of appropriate research plans, the analysis of data, and the production of well-organized scholarly writing that meets disciplinary and professional standards. Instruction also addresses preparation for the oral defense of the completed thesis. Continuous enrollment in the course is required each long semester until all thesis requirements have been fully satisfied.

ANTH 7199. Dissertation.

This course provides students with structured support as they complete the research and writing required for the doctoral dissertation under the supervision of their faculty advisor and dissertation committee. Through this experience, students will demonstrate their mastery of advanced research design, implementation, and analysis, as well as scientific writing. The course builds toward an oral defense of the dissertation. Students must be continuously enrolled in Dissertation during each long semester until the dissertation is completed.

ANTH 7299. Dissertation.

This course provides students with structured support as they complete the research and writing required for the doctoral dissertation under the supervision of their faculty advisor and dissertation committee. Through this experience, students will demonstrate their mastery of advanced research design, implementation, and analysis, as well as scientific writing. The course builds toward an oral defense of the dissertation. Students must be continuously enrolled in Dissertation during each long semester until the dissertation is completed.

ANTH 7300D. Advanced Methods in Primatology.

This course examines methods used to study primates in captive and field settings, including observational and experimental techniques. Students engage with recent scholarly literature on primatological methods and apply methodological approaches to research scenarios and independent projects. Topics include research design, data collection and analysis, ethical considerations, and inclusive practices in primatological research. Emphasis is placed on selecting appropriate methods to address specific research questions in both laboratory and field contexts.

ANTH 7301B. Primate Conservation.

This course introduces students to the diversity, distribution, and abundance of nonhuman primates. We will use principles from the field of conservation biology to examine the biological, abiotic, and anthropogenic factors related to primate extinction risk. Specifically, we will examine the various threats facing primate populations today, the ways that scientists define and monitor threatened/endangered populations, and the steps that are being taken to increase the likelihood of their survival.

ANTH 7301C. Design + Anthropology.

This course begins by examining human relationships with materials, technologies, infrastructures, and environments as a foundation for understanding how people design the objects and spaces they inhabit. It then analyzes design as a professional field and everyday practice, including histories and practices of design and their connections to social and economic systems. The course also explores theories, methods, and career pathways in design anthropology—demonstrating how anthropologists provide actionable insights for design in organizational and other settings.

ANTH 7301E. The Archaeology of Hunter-Gatherers.

This course examines the archaeological study of hunter-gatherer societies, tracing the development of this research tradition within anthropology. Emphasis is placed on methodological and theoretical approaches used to interpret material remains, including the integration of ethnographic analogy and environmental data. This course evaluates how archaeologists reconstruct subsistence strategies, social organization, and patterns of mobility among prehistoric hunter-gatherers. The course surveys key case studies from different regions and time periods to illustrate variability and change, while critically assessing the strengths and limitations of current interpretive frameworks.

ANTH 7301G. Mortuary Analysis: Perspectives on Death and Burial in the Past.

This course examines mortuary practices and the treatment of the dead in past human societies through archaeological and bioarchaeological evidence. The course analyzes theoretical frameworks and methodological approaches used to interpret burial practices, funerary treatments, and mortuary variability across cultural and temporal contexts. Emphasis is placed on the integration of material culture, skeletal data, and spatial patterning to evaluate social organization, ritual practice, and the role of the dead in human societies. The course also addresses comparative and cross-cultural approaches to mortuary analysis and the interpretation of mortuary assemblages.

ANTH 7301I. Medical Anthropology.

This course examines how understandings of health and illness are shaped by cultural beliefs, environmental conditions, and social contexts. It explores how human adaptation to local environments shapes patterns of health and disease, and analyzes how political and economic structures affect health outcomes and health-related practices. The course presents key perspectives from medical anthropology, including cross-cultural approaches to healing and the social dimensions of disease. It also investigates how global and local forces interact to shape health care systems and medical decision-making.

ANTH 7301K. Language in Society.

This course offers an in-depth exploration of how language varies across social contexts and how those variations both reflect and shape social life. It examines key theoretical frameworks alongside incisive empirical case studies to understand the social meanings embedded in linguistic practices. With a strong emphasis on ethnographic methods, the course provides tools for analyzing the diverse ways individuals use language within their communities and for engaging with the complex relationships among language, identity, and society.

ANTH 7301L. Linguistic Anthropology.

This course offers an intensive introduction to key theories and research methods in linguistic anthropology. It examines foundational approaches to the study of language in a social context, exploring how linguistic practices both shape and are shaped by cultural life. The course is organized into two interconnected components. First, it will engage deeply with a curated sequence of readings, paying close attention to the methodological tools and forms of evidence that underpin influential scholarship in the field. Second, through a hands-on field practicum, it will offer opportunities to observe language use in a real-world social setting, including how to produce systematic field notes guided by analytical questions developed in class. Together, these components provide conceptual grounding and practical experience for understanding and conducting linguistic anthropological research.

ANTH 7301M. Science, Technologies & Organizations.

This course explores the intersection of science, technology, and organizations through foundational theories, concepts, and methods in science and technology studies (STS) and organizational anthropology. It will examine concepts like objectivity, facts, authority, policy, infrastructure, and organizational power. The course highlights STS perspectives to investigate how culture and social structures influence knowledge, technology, and organizations. By exploring these relationships, the course emphasizes how anthropologists apply and justify anthropological perspectives in multidisciplinary teams and organizations beyond academic settings.

ANTH 7302. Teaching Anthropology.

This course introduces key concepts and practices in the teaching of college‑level anthropology. It provides training in the practical aspects of classroom instruction and is required for first‑year teaching assistants. Topics include relevant university and departmental policies, classroom technologies, development of a teaching philosophy, student support strategies, use of institutional resources, syllabus design, and effective presentation of course material. The course also addresses professional skills developed in graduate study, including teaching, mentoring, communication, and professionalism. The course does not earn graduate degree credit.

ANTH 7303. Ethnography of the US-Mexico Borderlands.

This course examines the history, cultural development, and contemporary dynamics of the U.S.–Mexico border region from anthropological and interdisciplinary perspectives. It evaluates broad theoretical and ethnographic approaches to understanding social, political, economic, and cultural processes shaping the borderlands. Topics of study may include labor migration, transnationalism, law and policy, religion, gender, social movements, and artistic expression.

ANTH 7304. Historical Archaeology.

This course provides an advanced survey of the theories, methods, and practices of historical archaeology, with emphasis on current scholarly debates and methodological approaches. It examines case studies from diverse historical and geographic contexts to analyze relationships between past societies and material culture. Through critical reading, discussion, and analysis of recent research, the course explores interpretive frameworks used in the discipline. Practical exercises introduce the identification and analysis of historical artifacts from Texas and North America within broader comparative contexts.

ANTH 7305. Anthropological Statistics.

This course is a leveling course that provides PhD students with a basic understanding of probability theory, descriptive statistics, and univariate and bivariate inferential statistical methods commonly used in the social sciences. The course introduces students to hypothesis testing and the application of parametric and nonparametric procedures widely used in scientific inquiry. It illustrates how to use the appropriate statistical tests with different types of numerical data. This course teaches the statistical formulae to demonstrate the assumptions required for each test, the limitations of the results, and appropriate interpretations of those data. This course does not earn graduate degree credit.

ANTH 7306. Applied Statistics for Research and Data Science.

This course introduces foundational concepts in applied statistics and data science using widely available statistical programming tools. Topics covered include how to organize, visualize, and analyze datasets while developing skills in descriptive statistics, hypothesis testing, statistical modeling, and introductory machine learning. Emphasis is placed on building practical skills for working with empirical data while maintaining clarity, reproducibility, and analytical rigor. Through practical exercises, students gain experience applying statistical techniques to real-world research questions across a range of disciplines. This course prepares students for advanced statistical applications in academic or professional contexts.

ANTH 7308. Cultural Resource Management.

This course explores the complexities of Cultural Resource Management (CRM) through analysis of case studies, legislation, and industry standards. It examines the intersection of law, policy, and practice in CRM and assesses theoretical and methodological approaches applied to real‑world scenarios. The course addresses professional roles within CRM, including project planning, community engagement, and regulatory compliance, with attention to management strategies used to address complex cultural resource issues in Texas and comparative jurisdictions. Emphasis is placed on evaluating regulatory frameworks and documented outcomes across public and private sector projects nationally and internationally.

ANTH 7310. Advanced Theory in Anthropology.

This course provides an intensive examination of contemporary theoretical currents in anthropology and situates them within the discipline’s broader intellectual history. It traces the evolution of key paradigms and debates that shape current anthropological thought. The course engages recent syntheses and innovations that bridge classical theory with contemporary perspectives. Emphasis is placed on developing theoretical fluency and crafting original analytical frameworks that advance each student’s research agenda and contribute to ongoing conversations in anthropological theory.

ANTH 7312. Seminar in Biological Anthropology.

This course introduces the historical foundations, central theories, and methodological approaches of biological anthropology. Topics examined include evolutionary theory, human variation, paleoanthropology, primatology, and skeletal biology as interconnected areas of inquiry within the discipline. Emphasis is placed on understanding how biological anthropologists develop research questions, apply scientific methods, and interpret evidence about human biological diversity and evolution. Through readings, discussion, and analytical activities, this course explores the development of the field and its contemporary applications. This course serves as a leveling experience for students entering doctoral study who have limited prior coursework in biological anthropology and does not carry graduate degree credit.

ANTH 7313. Seminar in Archaeology.

This course provides a foundational overview of archaeology for graduate students seeking preparatory coursework. Students examine the historical development of archaeological inquiry, major theoretical frameworks, and commonly used field and laboratory methods. Course materials include examples drawn from both New World and Old World archaeology to illustrate how archaeological questions are formulated and addressed in practice. Emphasis is placed on understanding archaeology as a scholarly discipline within anthropology. This course does not earn graduate degree credit.

ANTH 7315. Advanced Archaeological Techniques.

This course provides advanced training in the identification, description, and analysis of archaeological artifacts. Rotating topics focus on specific classes of materials, such as ceramics or lithics. The course investigates theoretical frameworks, production technologies, functional and stylistic attributes, use-wear, sourcing, and interpretive methods. It includes hands-on laboratory work with collections, inculcates relevant scientific and quantitative techniques, and evaluates how artifact data inform broader questions about technology, economy, social organization, and cultural change. This course may be repeated once for credit, but no more than 6 hours will be applied to a student's transcript.

ANTH 7326. Technical Methods in Anthropology.

This course examines technical field and laboratory methods used by anthropologists and related disciplines to collect, process, and analyze data from archaeological, bioarchaeological, forensic, and applied research contexts. Emphasis is placed on the practical use of geophysical, geospatial, imaging, and characterization instruments, as well as on data acquisition, analysis, and management workflows. The course critically evaluates methodological capabilities, limitations, and appropriate applications of technical tools within anthropological research designs.

ANTH 7341. Professional Ethics In Anthropology.

This course examines the ethical dimensions of anthropological research and professional practice across the discipline’s subfields. Topics include analyzing key frameworks, including institutional review processes (IRB, IACUC), community collaboration guidelines, bioethical considerations, cultural heritage stewardship, repatriation procedures, and professional standards regarding intellectual property and publication. Questions surrounding advocacy and public engagement are addressed through critical, comparative discussion. Through case studies and evaluation of professional resources, the course covers the identification of ethical challenges, the interpretation of regulatory and disciplinary guidelines, and the application of well-informed reasoning to diverse research contexts.

ANTH 7344. Proposal Writing.

This course provides students an opportunity to develop the expert skills necessary to write competitive research grants and contracts for applied anthropology projects. Topics covered include how to read research proposal solicitations from public and private granting agencies, an understanding of the various sections required in each proposal, and a grasp of the details necessary for the budget section. The goal of this course is for students to write a complete research proposal for their doctoral dissertation research. Prerequisite: ANTH 7341 with a grade of "C" or better.

ANTH 7348. Cultural Heritage Management.

This course explores the principles, practices, and contemporary challenges of cultural heritage management at local, national, and international scales. It examines legal and ethical frameworks, including state and federal heritage legislation, international conventions, repatriation, and stakeholder engagement with descendant communities. Emphasis is placed on the integration of archaeological data, ethnographic perspectives, public outreach, tourism impacts, and strategies for sustainable preservation amid development pressures and global threats. The course prepares graduate students for leadership roles in government agencies, consulting firms, museums, and heritage organizations.

ANTH 7351. GIS in Anthropology.

This course introduces Geographic Information Systems (GIS) as analytical tools used in anthropological research. The course emphasizes practical methods for acquiring, managing, analyzing, and interpreting spatial data relevant to anthropological questions. GIS applications from across anthropological subdisciplines are examined while developing technical skills in data acquisition, thematic mapping, spatial analysis, and data visualization. Instruction focuses on methodological principles, analytical techniques, and responsible data practices commonly used in anthropological research contexts.

ANTH 7352. Advanced Qualitative Methods.

This course presents advanced methodologies for qualitative research, ethnography, and cultural anthropology. It surveys emergent and specialized methodologies—emphasizing strategic improvisation and adaptive strategies within complex, multifaceted research environments—including sensory ethnography, digital methods, collaborative and participatory frameworks, and multimodal anthropology. Through practical, hands-on workshops, it also demonstrates advanced techniques in fieldnotes, data management and digitalization, coding and analysis, visualization, and ethnographic writing and presentation—prioritizing technical skill-building for advanced qualitative research in both applied and academic settings. Prerequisite: ANTH 7353 with a grade of "B" or better.

ANTH 7353. Applied Qualitative Methods.

This course is a skills-based qualitative methods class focused on designing and conducting applied anthropological research. Course content addresses the entire research process, including project design and sampling techniques, traditional qualitative methods, digital and visual methods, applied research approaches, strategies for meaningful community engagement, ethical implications, data management and analysis, and reporting. It requires the application of methods learned throughout the semester, culminating in a final research-based project. The course serves as a foundational methodological toolkit for qualitative research.

ANTH 7358. Curation of Archaeological Materials.

This course provides in-depth training in the theory, ethics, and advanced techniques of curating archaeological materials. It explores conservation science, long-term stabilization and preservation of organic and inorganic artifacts, collections assessment, exhibit design, inventory management, risk mitigation, and digital documentation strategies. Emphasis is placed on addressing the curation crisis, repository standards, compliance with federal and state regulations, and integrating collections into research, public outreach, and descendant-community engagement. The course prepares students for leadership roles in museums, repositories, cultural resource management, and academic stewardship of cultural heritage.

ANTH 7374. Advanced Topics in Biological Anthropology.

This course provides an advanced examination of selected topics in biological anthropology. Areas of study may include skeletal biology, forensic anthropology, bioarchaeology, primatology, paleoanthropology, and bone or dental histology. Emphasis is placed on critical engagement with current scholarly literature, theoretical perspectives, and methodological approaches relevant to the selected topic. The course analyzes contemporary research, evaluates competing interpretations, and examines methodological strengths and limitations within biological anthropology.

ANTH 7376. Forensic Analysis of Human Skeletal Remains.

This course examines the forensic anthropological analysis of human skeletal remains within medicolegal and humanitarian contexts. The course analyzes methods used to construct the biological profile, estimate postmortem interval, and interpret skeletal trauma and taphonomic processes. Emphasis is placed on the integration of theoretical frameworks, evidentiary standards, and analytical techniques in the interpretation of forensic cases. The course also addresses professional practice, including report writing, case documentation, and the application of forensic anthropology in legal, investigative, humanitarian, and mass fatality contexts. Prerequisite: ANTH 5375 with a grade of "C" or better.

ANTH 7385. Specialized Studies in Anthropology.

This course surveys advanced topics in anthropology selected by the instructor, offering students the opportunity to explore specialized research areas. Topics include analysis of advanced scholarly literature, evaluation of competing interpretations, and consideration of how different methodological and theoretical approaches shape anthropological knowledge. This course focuses on the development of skills in critical reading, discussion, and academic writing while considering how anthropologists construct arguments and interpret evidence. Pedagogical practices include engagement in discussion, written analysis, and other assignments designed to develop critical thinking and disciplinary expertise.

ANTH 7395. Externship in Anthropology.

This course facilitates professional development beyond academia by integrating applied anthropology into professional work environments. It connects academic learning with practical experience through supervised externships in public or private organizations outside the university. The course enhances the graduate curriculum by providing structured opportunities for real-world application of anthropological knowledge and skills, fostering understanding of professional contexts and career pathways. Designed to enrich academic study with practical insight, the course may be repeated for additional professional exposure. Each externship encompasses approximately 120 hours of applied experience supporting long-term professional growth. Prerequisite: Instructor approval.

ANTH 7397. Directed Research.

This course provides structured, faculty‑guided preparation for doctoral candidacy examinations. It focuses on the development of targeted reading lists that reflect significant theoretical and methodological contributions within specific anthropological focus areas. Course activities include identifying major scholarly conversations, evaluating methodological approaches, and organizing literature in ways that inform the formulation of dissertation research questions. Emphasis is placed on professional research preparation, analytical rigor, and the articulation of disciplinary knowledge in written and oral contexts. Prerequisite: Instructor approval.

ANTH 7398. Collaborative Research.

This course provides doctoral students with structured opportunities to initiate, conduct, and participate in collaborative research with graduate faculty. Students engage in faculty‑mentored study design, data collection, and analysis appropriate to their research area. Emphasis is placed on professional research practices, effective communication of findings, and refinement of methodological and analytical skills through sustained scholarly engagement. The course may be repeated once for credit, with a maximum of six hours applicable toward the doctoral degree. Prerequisite: Instructor approval.

ANTH 7399. Dissertation.

This course provides students with structured support as they complete the research and writing required for the doctoral dissertation under the supervision of their faculty advisor and dissertation committee. Through this experience, students will demonstrate their mastery of advanced research design, implementation, and analysis, as well as scientific writing. The course builds toward an oral defense of the dissertation. Students must be continuously enrolled in the course during each long semester until the dissertation is completed.

ANTH 7599. Dissertation.

This course provides students with structured support as they complete the research and writing required for the doctoral dissertation under the supervision of their faculty advisor and dissertation committee. Through this experience, students will demonstrate their mastery of advanced research design, implementation, and analysis, as well as scientific writing. The course builds toward an oral defense of the dissertation. Students must be continuously enrolled in Dissertation during each long semester until the dissertation is completed.

ANTH 7609. Gross Human Anatomy.

This course covers the gross anatomical structures of the human thorax, abdomen, pelvis, perineum, back, limbs, head and neck, including muscles, bones, organs and neurovascular structures. It takes a regional approach to human anatomy and focuses on the daily dissection of human cadavers. Both the history of the individual and the history of the individual's ancestors explain modern human anatomy, and because of this, both an embryological and an evolutionary perspective are presented. These approaches provide scientific frameworks for interpreting human anatomical structure.

ANTH 7695. Externship in Anthropology.

This course facilitates professional development beyond academia by integrating applied anthropology into professional work environments. It connects academic learning with practical experience through supervised externships in public or private organizations outside the university. The course enhances the graduate curriculum by providing structured opportunities for real-world application of anthropological knowledge and skills, fostering understanding of professional contexts and career pathways. Designed to enrich academic study with practical insight, the course may be repeated for additional professional exposure. Each externship encompasses approximately 120 hours of applied experience supporting long-term professional growth. Prerequisite: Instructor approval.

ANTH 7699. Dissertation.

This course provides students with structured support as they complete the research and writing required for the doctoral dissertation under the supervision of their faculty advisor and dissertation committee. Through this experience, students will demonstrate their mastery of advanced research design, implementation, and analysis, as well as scientific writing. The course builds toward an oral defense of the dissertation. Students must be continuously enrolled in Dissertation during each long semester until the dissertation is completed.

ANTH 7995. Externship in Anthropology.

This course facilitates professional development beyond academia by integrating applied anthropology into professional work environments. It connects academic learning with practical experience through supervised externships in public or private organizations outside the university. The course enhances the graduate curriculum by providing structured opportunities for real-world application of anthropological knowledge and skills, fostering understanding of professional contexts and career pathways. Designed to enrich academic study with practical insight, the course may be repeated for additional professional exposure. Each externship encompasses approximately 120 hours of applied experience supporting long-term professional growth. Prerequisite: Instructor approval.

ANTH 7999. Dissertation.

This course provides students with structured support as they complete the research and writing required for the doctoral dissertation under the supervision of their faculty advisor and dissertation committee. Through this experience, students will demonstrate their mastery of advanced research design, implementation, and analysis, as well as scientific writing. The course builds toward an oral defense of the dissertation. Students must be continuously enrolled in Dissertation during each long semester until the dissertation is completed.