Fall 2024 Course Schedule | Department of Anthropology

Fall 2024 Course Schedule

Undergraduate Courses

To see the official course schedule visit http://registrar.unt.edu/registration/schedule-of-classes.


ANTH 1010.100 - Introduction to Anthropology
Instructor: J. Johnson
Face-to-Face. Synchronous. TuTh 11am-12:20pm. Location: CURY 203

Surveys and explains the cultural, linguistic and biological legacy of humankind, from antiquity to the present, using the research tools of anthropology. Anthropology is both a scientific and humanistic endeavor that attempts to explain the differences and similarities between and among human groups. Anthropology studies where people come from, who they are, what they do, and why they do it.


ANTH 1010.200 - Introduction to Anthropology
Instructor: J. Johnson
Internet. Asynchronous. No set meeting times.

Surveys and explains the cultural, linguistic and biological legacy of humankind, from antiquity to the present, using the research tools of anthropology. Anthropology is both a scientific and humanistic endeavor that attempts to explain the differences and similarities between and among human groups. Anthropology studies where people come from, who they are, what they do, and why they do it.


ANTH 1150.200 - World Cultures Through Film
Instructor: M. Nelson
Internet. Asynchronous. No set meeting times.

Through the use of ethnographic and documentary film, as well as lecture/discussion, this web-based course illustrates the life ways, values and beliefs of human societies throughout the world. This survey includes examples from native North America, Latin America, Australia, Southeast Asia, Africa, East Asia, Melanesia, Polynesia, modern North America and Europe.


ANTH 2300.100 - Culture & Society
Instructor: J. Carrington
Face-to-Face. Synchronous. MW 2:00-3:20pm. Location: GATE 132

Cultural anthropology is the social science that tries to make sense out of people's lifestyles around the world, encompassing many subjects such as law, religion, politics, health, language, economics and globalization. It involves analyzing human ways of life with holistic, comparative, global, and relativistic perspective. As we compare and contrast different cultures around the world, we just as often analyze ourselves.


ANTH 2300.400 - Culture & Society
Instructor: J. Carrington
Internet. Asynchronous. No set meeting times.

Cultural anthropology is the social science that tries to make sense out of people's lifestyles around the world, encompassing many subjects such as law, religion, politics, health, language, economics and globalization. It involves analyzing human ways of life with holistic, comparative, global, and relativistic perspective. As we compare and contrast different cultures around the world, we just as often analyze ourselves.


ANTH 2300.501 - Culture & Society
Instructor: Staff
Face-to-Face. Synchronous. TuThu12:30pm-1:50pm Location: FRLD 354 (Frisco)

Cultural anthropology is the social science that tries to make sense out of people's lifestyles around the world, encompassing many subjects such as law, religion, politics, health, language, economics and globalization. It involves analyzing human ways of life with holistic, comparative, global, and relativistic perspective. As we compare and contrast different cultures around the world, we just as often analyze ourselves.


ANTH 2700.001 - Introduction to Physical Anthropology
Instructor: Staff
Face-to-Face. Synchronous. TuThu12:30pm-1:50pm Location: MATT 112

Study of human biological evolution from primate beginnings to the present era. Emphasis is placed upon anatomical and physiological variations and their adaptive significance.


ANTH 3101.400/401/402 - Issues in Contemporary American Culture and Society
Instructor: C. Paschal/C. Paschal/Staff
Internet. Asynchronous. No set meeting times.

Shifting American cultural values, emergent and contested identities, and complex social institutions undergird some of the most significant social issues in America today. Oriented around the core concept of culture and cultural groups, the course is designed to introduce anthropological frameworks for understanding cultural diversity, and to develop critical thinking skills for identifying, describing and explaining the social complexities of American (U.S.) culture. Ethnographic case studies combine with current events to orient the intricacies of cultural diversity, while discussion and critical reflection raise awareness and broaden perspectives of lives and livelihoods in the United States. Special time and attention are devoted to both mainstream and subcultural identities in this pluralist, secular, nation-state culture.


ANTH 3101.501 - Issues in Contemporary American Culture and Society
Instructor: L. Scott
Face-to-Face. Synchronous. TuThu 10:30-11:50am Location: FRLD 354 (Frisco)

Shifting American cultural values, emergent and contested identities, and complex social institutions undergird some of the most significant social issues in America today. Oriented around the core concept of culture and cultural groups, the course is designed to introduce anthropological frameworks for understanding cultural diversity, and to develop critical thinking skills for identifying, describing and explaining the social complexities of American (U.S.) culture. Ethnographic case studies combine with current events to orient the intricacies of cultural diversity, while discussion and critical reflection raise awareness and broaden perspectives of lives and livelihoods in the United States. Special time and attention are devoted to both mainstream and subcultural identities in this pluralist, secular, nation-state culture.


ANTH 3110.400 - Indigenous Peoples of North America
Instructor: Staff
Internet. Asynchronous. No set meeting times.

Examines the common stereotypes and media (mis)interpretations of indigenous peoples and cultures in order to see beyond such one-dimensional portrayals of the American Indian. Introduction to a number of important themes in the history of Native American peoples over the last 500 years, including colonization, culture change and sovereignty. Students gain a sense of the richness and diversity of Native American culture and experience.


ANTH 3130.100 - African American Anthropology
Instructor: K. Wren
Face-to-Face. Synchronous. W 6:00-8:50pm. Location: SAGE 354

Develops a "double consciousness" of knowledge of African-American (or black) culture in the United States, the impact of blacks on mainstream American culture, and vice versa. Covers the role of U.S. history, politics and economics as having shaped and been shaped by the presence of people of African descent on this continent and in this hemisphere, including historical roots, classic literature, religion, social structural aspects of African-American culture, oral traditions, identity and representation.


ANTH 3210.100 - Meso America
Instructor: A. Re Cruz
Face-to-Face. Synchronous. TuTh 11am-12:20pm Location: PHYS 104

The indigenous, colonial and mestizaje cultures of Middle America from prehistoric to contemporary times. Beginning with the peopling of the Americas and concluding with a review of current issues and politics, students explore the dominant culture groups that have comprised this region, and specific issues of colonialism, imperialism, neocolonialism, syncretized Catholicism, peasant rebellions, migration and globalization.


ANTH 3400.100 - Peoples and Cultures of Africa
Instructor: D. Henry
Face-to-Face. Synchronous. MWF 12:00-12:50pm. Location: LIFE A106

The diversity of African people and culture through a variety of sources--ethnographies, films, literature and narratives. The reality of life in contemporary Africa as well as the way it has been portrayed by anthropologists, explorers, historians and the media. Looks in detail at the continent's rich geography, environment, history, politics, religion, economics and ethnicities, as well as the challenges that current events in Africa pose for the rest of the world.


ANTH 3500.100 - Cultures and Civilizations of the Middle East
Instructor: M. Sadri
Face-to-Face. Synchronous. Th 6:30-9:20pm. Location: ART 219

The prehistory, history and contemporary situation of one of the most unusual areas of cultural diversity and human adaptation in the world. Special attention is given to the colonial and religious history of the area that underlies much of its current problems. Its unique role in the developing world economic system is addressed, as well as those current phenomena that make it such a volatile area.


ANTH 3700.100 - Peoples and Cultures of South Asia
Instructor: Staff
Internet. Asynchronous. No set meeting times.

A survey of the culturally rich and diverse cultures and traditions of South Asia, each with its own unique history covering thousands of years. From the days of prehistory to the present period of profound social, economic, political and technological changes, this course provides an in-depth background and understanding of the peoples and cultures of this area.


ANTH 4000.100 - Applied Anthropology
Instructor: M. Nuñez-Janes
Face-to-Face. Synchronous. MWF 11:00-11:50am. Location: ENV 115

Development, theory, methods and approaches of applied anthropology. Through case materials, the course examines both the current and historical roles and contributions of the various subfields in the application of anthropology to the problems of culture. Special attention is directed at developing some understanding and appreciation of the problems and ethics involved in applied or practical activities and to developing the necessary skills and methods for assuming such a role as an applied anthropologist.


ANTH 4011.100 - Anthropological Field Methods
Instructor: M. Nelson
Face-to-Face. Synchronous. TuTh 12:30-1:50pm. Location: Wh 214

Concentrates on the field methods of anthropology, in particular the various data gathering techniques, methods of analysis and field techniques of participant observation. In addition to acquiring the skills of the participant observation method, students gain an increased awareness, understanding and appreciation of the problems associated with conducting research in cultures other than their own. Special attention is devoted to the interactional aspects of dealing with people from a variety of cultural backgrounds.


ANTH 4021.100 - Development of Anthropological Thought
Instructor: A. Nelson
Face-to-Face. Synchronous. MW 2:00-3:20pm. Location: HKRY 252

Overview of the history of anthropological thought from its origins to the contemporary schools of anthropology, with emphasis on the scientific, intellectual and sociopolitical causes and consequences of changes in major conceptual orientations to man and culture.


ANTH 4200.100 - Health, Healing & Culture: Medical Anthropology
Instructor: K. Lee
Face-to-Face. Synchronous. MW 3:30-4:50pm. Location: BLB 073

Contemporary medical anthropology, with a focus on the biocultural basis of health and global sociocultural variations in illness and healing. Study of comparative health systems, political-economic and ethical issues in health and care, health professions, and patients' views of illness, and cross-cultural definitions and understandings of disease, illness and cure.


ANTH 4210.100 - Culture and Human Sexuality
Instructor: J. Carrington
Face-to-Face. Synchronous. TuTh 2-3:20pm. Location: PHYS 112

Examines sexualities cross-culturally in their specific historical, social, religious and political contexts to explore how that seemingly most natural aspect of humanity -- sex -- is structured and experienced very differently across the globe. A primary focus is how sex and sexuality are discursively constructed as a matter of utmost privacy, yet are paradoxically a matter of deep public concern. Examines the intimate connection between sex and the nation by exploring topics such as family planning policies, anti-sodomy laws, and laws against interracial marriages.


ANTH 4300.400 - Migrants and Refugees
Instructor: Staff
Internet. Asynchronous. No set meeting time

Anthropological understanding of "uprooted" and displaced social groups who leave their country and culture. Worldwide political, economic and social issues are analyzed, as are the processes of accommodation, adaptation and re-creation of their cultural systems in different socioeconomic and political contexts. Beginning with general characteristics of the anthropological discussion on "displacement", the course then ventures into different models for the analysis and understanding of migration and refugee movements.


ANTH 4310.100 - Citizenship, Borders and Belonging in the United States
Instructor: J. Carrington
Face-to-Face. Synchronous. TuTh 9:30-10:50am. Location: TBD

Focuses on migration to and citizenship in the United States and how intersecting cultural hierarchies of race, class, gender, sexuality, nationality, and more shape the drawing of lines between insider and outsider; marking which bodies can belong to the United States as a citizen, and those that cannot. Critical analysis of macro-level immigration processes, structures, and concepts and a deeper understanding of micro-level, lived experiences of migrants and their communities in the United States.


ANTH 4400.100 - Environmental Anthropology
Instructor: K. Narahara
Face-to-Face. Synchronous. TuTh 3:30-4:50pm. Location: COL 047

Focuses on major environmental questions, theories, problems, issues and possible solutions illustrated by case studies from different parts of the world. Examines environmental issues pertaining to land, sea and natural resources; food production systems; deforestation; population problems; poverty and environmental justice; natural hazards and risks; resource conflicts and warfare; over-fishing; economic development; mineral and oil extraction; landscapes; and biodiversity conservation.


ANTH 4765.100 - Urban Beings
Instructor: J. Johnson
Internet. Asynchronous. No set meeting time

Examines the human experience in cross-cultural urban contexts from an anthropological perspective. Balancing materialist and ideological explanations of sociocultural arrangements, ethnographic readings and case studies showcase stunning diversity and surprising similarity in urban dwellings and dwellers. Students conduct independent research analyzing urban beings in the DFW Metroplex.


Graduate Courses


ANTH 5010.100 - Anthropological Thought & Praxis I
Instructor: A. Nelson
Face-to-Face. Synchronous. M 6:00-8:50pm. Location: AUDB 202

Considers the history of anthropological concepts, the major historical debates in anthropological theory and historical tensions between applied and theoretical knowledge. Special emphasis is given to critical examination of concept and theory formation and the application of anthropological ideas to the problems of everyday life.

Prerequisite(s): ANTH 5000 or 12 hours of anthropology.


ANTH 5010.400 - Anthropological Thought & Praxis I
Instructor: C. Wasson
Internet.

Considers the history of anthropological concepts, the major historical debates in anthropological theory and historical tensions between applied and theoretical knowledge. Special emphasis is given to critical examination of concept and theory formation and the application of anthropological ideas to the problems of everyday life.

Prerequisite(s): ANTH 5000 or 12 hours of anthropology.

For students taking the online version of ANTH 5010, attendance at the orientation for the Department of Anthropology's online master's students is also required.

For online sections, this class has a combination of synchronous and asynchronous learning. There are weekly synchronous Zoom meetings. Day/time TBD by entire class.


ANTH 5031.100 - Ethnographic & Qualitative Methods
Instructor: J. Johnson
Face-to-Face. Synchronous. T 6:00-8:50pm. Location: AUDB 218

Focuses on ethnographic and qualitative methods and the development of the skills necessary for the practice of anthropology. Special emphasis is given to qualitative techniques of data collection and analysis, grant writing, the use of computers to analyze qualitative data and ethical problems in conducting qualitative research.


ANTH 5031.400 - Ethnographic & Qualitative Methods
Instructor: K. Narahara
Internet.

Focuses on ethnographic and qualitative methods and the development of the skills necessary for the practice of anthropology. Special emphasis is given to qualitative techniques of data collection and analysis, grant writing, the use of computers to analyze qualitative data and ethical problems in conducting qualitative research.

For online sections, this class has a combination of synchronous and asynchronous learning. There are 6-8 synchronous Zoom meetings. Day/time TBD by entire class.


ANTH 5032.400/401- Ethnographic & Qualitative Methods for Non-Majors
Instructor: K. Griffin
Internet. Asynchronous. No set meeting times.

Designed to teach non-majors the basics of ethnographic and qualitative methods. Students develop the skills necessary to conduct qualitative research through reviewing and applying the relationship of research to theory, research ethics, project design, data collection (observation, interviewing and focus groups), coding, analysis of data through the use of computer software, and presentation of findings.


ANTH 5050.400 - Preparation for Practice and the Applied Thesis
Instructor: S. Squires
Internet.

Emphasis on planning the applied thesis project, professional development, and bringing students into the community of practice of applied/practicing anthropologists. Students learn skills in client development, project design, proposal writing, informational interviews, how to obtain a job, how to succeed in the workplace, and networking. In addition, students are exposed to contested issues in the field and career trajectories of practitioners. A number of practitioners are invited as guest speakers.

For online sections, this class has a combination of synchronous and asynchronous learning. There are 6-8 synchronous Zoom meetings. Day/time TBD by entire class.


ANTH 5110.400 - Design Anthropology
Instructor: S. Squires
Internet.

Fundamentals of the field of design anthropology. Students collaborate on an applied project, practice applied research methods and video ethnography. Students learn to engage in collaborative analysis and work with customers to translate their research into practical applications. In addition to hands-on experience, students conduct readings on topics relevant to the project and to design anthropology in general.

Prerequisite(s): Consent of department.

Course may be repeated for credit. Projects vary each semester.


ANTH 5201.400 - Medical Anthropology
Instructor: D. Henry
Internet.

Perspectives in contemporary medical anthropology, with a focus on the biocultural basis of health and sociocultural variations in illness and healing (ethnomedicine). Study of comparative health systems, political-economic and ethical issues in health and care, health professions and patients' views of illness.


ANTH 5300.400 - Migrants and Refugees
Instructor: A. Re Cruz
Internet.

Focuses on the factors embedded in people's displacement, either through migration or refugee movements. Aims at identifying the cultural processes that promote displacement and those emanating from the consequences of displacement. Emphasizes the human factor encapsulated in the phenomenon of displacement.


ANTH 5400.100 - Environmental Anthropology
Instructor: K. Narahara
Face-to-Face. Synchronous. TuThu 3:30-4:50pm. Location: COL 047

Emphasis on theory, major environmental questions, problems, issues, and possible solutions illustrated by case studies from different parts of the world. Examination of environmental issues pertaining to land/sea and natural resources, food production systems, deforestation, population problems, poverty and environmental justice, natural hazards and risks, resource conflicts and warfare, over-fishing, economic development, globalization and transnationalism, mineral and oil extraction, landscapes, biodiversity conservation, the commons, ecofeminism, and valuation of nature. Course goals are to provide a global sample of the literature in environmental anthropology; a survey of concepts, issues, theories, methods and practices in environmental anthropology; and an in-depth acquaintance with a particular topic in environmental anthropology through an individual research project.

Prerequisite(s): Consent of instructor.


ANTH 5620.200 - Anthropology of Education
Instructor: Staff
Internet.

Examines issues and approaches relevant to the study of education within the field of anthropology. Provides an introduction to anthropological concepts and anthropological methods used in the study of education and schooling. Includes an examination of the relation between anthropology and education as it pertains to cultural transmission. In addition, it looks at cultural difference, minority status, and educational outcomes. It also highlights current perspectives and critiques relevant to educational "problems" and emerging solutions derived from an anthropological perspective of education.

Same as EDCI 5620.


ANTH 5760.100 - Advanced Studies in Urban Anthropology
Instructor: Staff
A historical and contemporary account of approaches to urban anthropology with a focus on social justice.

Meets with ANTH 4760.

Not open to students who have completed ANTH 4760.