This program is open to junior and senior anthropology majors with outstanding academic
records. Graduation with departmental distinction is designated on the diploma of those who
successfully complete the program. To earn departmental distinction, a student must:
- Complete the usual course work for a
B.A. or B.S. degree with at least a 3.50 G.P.A. in anthropology and with at least a 3.00 G.P.A.
overall;
- With a grade of B or higher, pass ANTH 4366 and ANTH 5334 (one
of these courses may be replaced by completing a substantial independent reading program
for three term-hours on the history, conceptual foundations, or methodological problems of the
discipline);
- With a grade of A or A-, conduct a research project (for three term hours credit
in ANTH 4391 or 4392); and complete a significant research paper that is a minimum of 20 pages
of text, includes a bibliography, and is written in appropriate sub disciplinary professional
style and format; and
- Pass an oral examination of one hour in length (with at least three departmental
faculty members), covering the results of the research project and general issues and concepts
in anthropology according to the subfield specialty.
Eligible students will be admitted to the distinction track upon
recommendation of the Director of Undergraduate Studies in consultation with the faculty
member who has agreed to chair the distinction committee and oversee the student's research
and writing. Students must apply for distinction at the beginning of their senior year and the
oral examination must be scheduled before the first day of exams of the final semester.
The faculty advisor must approve the paper to be presented to the orals
committee and copies of the paper must be delivered to members of the committee at least two
weeks in advance of the scheduled oral examination date. A copy of the final paper must be
filed with the Administrative Assistant in the Department of Anthropology.
