Zooarchaeology is the study of animal and human interactions through archaeological remains and context. Humans have interacted with animals as predators, prey, and even pets and hunting companions throughout prehistory into today. This course provides students with the skills to analyze animal remains, keep careful journal records, and report their findings verbally, visually, and in writing.
Every other Fall, odd years
This course provides an introduction to Cultural Resource Management (CRM), which comprises an estimated 80 percent of the professional archaeology conducted in the United States. Students will explore the laws that govern archaeological research in the public sector. Practical elements include the importance of anthropological theory, development of regulation-driven research designs, production and evaluation of reports, applying National Register criteria, and project management. Additionally curation of collections, ethical issues, and the concepts and ownership of traditional cultural properties. A primary focus will be on the multiple stakeholders in these processes, including developers, archaeologists, and Indigenous groups.
Every other Spring, odd years
The Northern Plains of North America is a vast territory stretching from central Manitoba and Saskatchewan south to Nebraska, east to northern Iowa and west to the Rocky Mountains. It is a stark and harsh landscape but one with abundant streams, wildlife, and wild plants. These resources have sustained Native American populations for at least 12,000 years and continue to do so through the present day. This course will take a holistic approach to the study of the Great Plains through an archaeological perspective that includes Indigenous knowledge, viewpoints, and concerns. Emphasis will be placed on making connections between the culture, lifeways, and worldviews of past and contemporary Indigenous nations.
Occasionally
This four to five week field school offers basic instruction in all aspects of Archaeological Fieldwork. Students will be instructed in excavation, mapping, photography, plan view map drawing, as well as the initial processing of recovered artifacts.
Every Summer, Study away
The first week of the course will be spent on campus reading and discussing the history of the Southwest from an archaeological and cultural perspective. The southwest is a region rich in archaeological sites. This region also provides a unique setting to explore the living cultures whose ancestors created those sites. We will visit ancient sites built into cliffs, walk the river courses of cultures long past, and visit with the living descendants of the archaeological sites we’ll explore on this unique tour of the Southwest.
Occasionally
Internship in Anthropology.
Additional fees may apply.
Special Topics in Anthropology.