Anthropology is the study of human cultures, societies, and behavior in all parts of the world throughout all periods of history. There are four sub-disciplines: archaeology, the study of historic and prehistoric cultures and civilizations, socio-cultural anthropology, which is concerned with current cultures of all degrees of complexity, physical anthropology, the biological aspects of the human species, and anthropological linguistics, which is concerned with the scientific study of language and its relationship to thought and society. In the past, anthropologists tended to study people in small, tribal societies. In recent decades, more attention has been given to peasantry and industrialized, urban societies and to the application of anthropology to understanding problems of these societies. The Department of Anthropology focuses on archaeology and socio-cultural anthropology. Courses in biological/physical anthropology also are offered. In addition, the Department offers courses in folklore, oral history, and geography, which are closely related to anthropology.<br><br>Anthropology provides very broad training in the social sciences. Therefore, a background in Anthropology is useful in any career in which an understanding of people or the societies in which they live is important. Due to the broad nature of the field, students trained in anthropology have followed a wide range of careers. In recent years, our majors have pursued advanced training and professional paths in anthropology, archaeology, law, social work, business, public health, museum work, nursing, computer programming, clinical psychology, education, economic development, and the U.S. Armed Forces. Students with course work and practical experience in archaeology, as well as those with graduate degrees in archaeology, have found employment with public agencies and private organizations concerned with cultural resource management.