Course Descriptions
ATH101 Human Evolution
Studies the processes of the bio-cultural evolution of humans with an emphasis on the evolutionary theory from several belief systems. Include Mendelian and population genetics, classification of primates (human and non-human), fossil evidence for human evolution, the study of biological diversity in contemporary human populations, and the biological and cultural definition of race. Prerequisite: Placement into WR115 (or higher), or completion of WR090 (or higher) with a grade of C or better; or consent of instructor.
4 Credits
ATH102 Archaeology
Covers basic archaeological method and theory and reviews the techniques used for investigating the past. Focuses on the interpretation and assessment of archeological data. Includes the development of technology and food production, the origins of complex societies and the resulting social inequalities, and the evolution of cultural systems. Includes some of the major contributions of archaeology and discusses the relevance of archaeology to everyday life. Selection of specific societies and sites for study may vary according to each instructor’s expertise. Prerequisite: Placement into WR115 (or higher), or completion of WR090 (or higher) with a grade of C or better; or consent of instructor.
4 Credits
ATH103 Introduction to Cultural Anthropology
Surveys the field of cultural anthropology and its focus on the human patterns of behaviors, thoughts, and feelings. Introduces a methodology for studying human sociocultural adaptations. Includes the topics of major cross-cultural studies with a focus on language, adaptation, economics marriage, kinship, gender, political organization, stratification, and, religion. Examines the process of culture change and the application of cultural anthropology to practical society problems. Prerequisite: Placement into WR115 (or higher), or completion of WR090 (or higher) with a grade of C or better; or consent of instructor.
4 Credits
ATH180 Nature of Language
Introduces anthropological linguistics. Includes the history of linguistics and written language, descriptive linguistics, sociolinguistics, language and thought, language acquisition and the biology and physiology of language development. Also includes bilingualism and multiculturalism and written language development in both the old and new world. Prerequisite: Placement into WR115 (or higher), or completion of WR090 (or higher) with a grade of C or better; or consent of instructor.
3 Credits
ATH212 Mexican Prehistory
Explores the development of Mexican culture from the early hunter gatherers of the Archaic to the formation of cultigens, ceramics, settlements, and the establishment of traditional Mesoamerican cultural traits and cosmologies. The innovations of the Pre classic, Classic, Epi-classic, and Post-classic Periods, and the rise and fall of the Aztec state are examined through archaeologic, ethnographic, and ethnohistoric evidence. Major Mexican and Mayan archaeologic sites of Mesoamerica are discussed with an emphasis on change through time. Prerequisite: Placement into WR115 (or higher), or completion of WR090 (or higher) with a grade of C or better; or consent of instructor.
4 Credits
ATH214 Contemporary Mexican Culture
Provides a look at key situations and events throughout the prehistoric and historic periods which significantly shaped or contributed to Mexican culture and ethnic identity. Emphasis is placed on the modern historic era. Explores the development and characteristics of Mexican culture from the early hunter gatherers of the Archaic to the establishment of traditional Mesoamerican cultural traits and cosmologies. Major Mexican and Mayan archaeological sites of Mexico are initially discussed, as well as specific cultural innovations of the Classic, Epi- and Post-classic periods. Prerequisite: Placement into WR115 (or higher), or completion of WR090 (or higher) with a grade of C or better; or consent of instructor.
4 Credits
ATH231 Native American Studies
Focuses on Native American cultures and their ancestors in prehistoric, historic, and contemporary contexts. Presents the history of anthropological research and surveys languages and culture areas of Native North America. Evaluates differences in tribal strategies adapting to Europeans while struggling to retain tribal sovereignty. Covers native identity, intertribal culture, and contemporary issues. Prerequisite: Placement into WR115 (or higher), or completion of WR090 (or higher) with a grade of C or better; or consent of instructor.
4 Credits