Anthropology (B.S. or B.A.)
Why Study Anthropology at NIU?
Our anthropology degree is designed to give you a comprehensive understanding of the study of humans; past, present and future.
You’ll get involved with research projects and learn directly from our nationally-recognized faculty who have made major discoveries, attracting global attention in all four areas of anthropology:
- Archeology
- Linguistic anthropology
- Physical/biological anthropology
- Social/cultural anthropology
Work side-by-side with our faculty in a field setting in places like Madagascar, Cambodia, Kenya
Our Pick Museum of Anthropology houses over 12,000 archaeological and cultural specimens and objects and is a great place for you to get hands-on experience in all phases of museum work. The museum also maintains a large archaeological research collection of artifacts from Illinois and the surrounding states.
Student Quote
“What makes the anthropology department at NIU special is the accessible faculty who are willing to share their vast experience in the field and the world with their students. Also, the Anthropology Club has allowed me to be a leader and to explore the world of anthropology outside of my classes and to share that world with the rest of the university.”
Careers with an Anthropology Degree
With your anthropology degree, you can find careers in many areas from advocacy to museum curation, to forensics and law. Learn more about potential careers that you can pursue with your anthropology degree
Anthropology Faculty
We have several local and national awarding-winning professors who conduct research all over the globe in the areas of:
- Primate anatomy.
- Evolution.
- Monumental architecture.
- Muslim women’s political engagement.
- Rhe reconstruction of meaning in post-war.
- Culture and agriculture.
- Economic anthropology.
- The transition from prehistory to history in the New World.
Hands-on Learning Opportunities
Join our student-run Anthropology Club to get more involved with your major. The club organizes social and academic events including camping, museum visits and brown bag lunch seminars where faculty and grad students share about their current research trips and projects. All their activities are centered on a love for the study of anthropology.