Studying Anthropology at Kenyon
Anthropology is often referred to as the science of humanity, embracing biological, historical and cultural studies as distinct but interrelated pursuits. Kenyon’s anthropology department provides unusual breadth for an undergraduate program, with a curriculum covering biological anthropology, cultural anthropology and archaeology.
Anthropology professors are accomplished researchers who have conducted field work throughout the world, providing groundbreaking insights into the origins of humanity, from Maya societies in Central America to Neanderthal ingenuity in Europe.
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Unearthing Campus Origins
At an ongoing excavation near the Church of the Holy Spirit, anthropology students search for artifacts from one of the earliest buildings on campus. Learn more about research at Kenyon.
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News and Resources
From national databases to emerging technologies, anthropology students have a wealth of resources and recent breakthroughs at their fingertips.
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Off-Campus Study
Anthropology students are encouraged to study abroad and gain first-hand experience of other cultures. Supported by faculty advisors and the Center for Global Engagement, students often select programs with home-stays, language instruction and field research.
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What's in a name?
Palme House, Kenyon's home for anthropology, was named for Olof Palme, a former prime minister of Sweden — and graduate of Kenyon's Class of 1948.
Featured Courses
Introduction to Archaeology
Today people increasingly live in highly industrialized and urban civilizations. But how long have humans had “civilization”? What is civilization and how can it be recognized? Investigate these questions while learning the basic elements of archaeology and its place in anthropology.
Linguistic Anthropology
What role does language play in shaping and reflecting cultural norms and social interactions? Explore the wide-ranging ways our lives are mediated by, and brought to life through, human communication, and refine your ability to interpret and critique signs and signaling in your own social and media worlds.
Anthropology of Food
How does what we eat reflect who we are? Food plays a central role in human biology, but it is also a cultural construction rich with symbolism and significance. This course considers food from an evolutionary perspective, examining nutritional variations in subsistence strategies ranging from foraging to industrial societies.
Neanderthals
Neanderthals: dull, dim-witted, hairy, stooped, savage and primitive. Is this image of our closest relative on the human family tree accurate? Did Neanderthals really have trouble walking and chewing gum at the same time? This course examines the evidence that informs us about Neanderthal behaviors and capabilities.
Kenyon Anthropology on Instagram
From student spotlights and upcoming events to glimpses inside the classroom and out in the field, follow the Department of Anthropology on Instagram for the latest news and academic highlights.Palme House
Kenyon College
Gambier, Ohio 43022