BA in Anthropology in Williamsburg United States | College of William and Mary

In essence, Anthropology explores humanity, examining our intricate connections with each other and our environment. This vast field remains endlessly fascinating. Traditionally (and within our department), Anthropology comprises four key areas: Archaeology (investigating past civilizations through landscape alterations, artifacts, and historical documents), Biological Anthropology (analyzing biological evidence related to evolution, population shifts, health, and societal disparities), Linguistics (examining language's role in cultural practices and social evolution), and Social/Cultural Anthropology (studying human interactions, activities, and their underlying motivations). Our department provides comprehensive coursework across these disciplines and encourages both undergraduate and graduate students to pursue original research. At William & Mary, we emphasize engaged anthropology—collaborating with diverse communities, from Virginia's Indigenous peoples to Mexican agricultural workers, to conduct research addressing their specific needs. Such initiatives form the ethical foundation of our work.
Since anthropology intersects with virtually every aspect of human existence, it offers students unparalleled opportunities. Our graduates have pursued careers ranging from medicine and journalism to theater and technology. We facilitate connections with museums, labs, and cultural preservation organizations that value anthropological expertise. Many students gain hands-on experience through internships or research at local institutions like Colonial Williamsburg and Historic Jamestowne. Our approaches span from scientific analysis of ancient subsistence strategies to ethnographic interpretation of global migrant communities. Faculty members are committed to equipping students with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience needed to make meaningful impacts beyond our campus.