Combined Major--Anthropology/Biology


Advisor: Dr. Joan Stevenson & Dr. Michael Grimes

The consideration of human biology is a necessary part of the holistic view of human beings. Physical anthropologists try to understand the nature of human variation in body size and shape, disease resistance, nutritional needs, and other medically relevant variables. The interaction of culture and environment with human health has given rise to the rapidly expanding field of medical anthropology. The success of this endeavor was highlighted by the work of Blumberg, a physical anthropologist who was awarded the Nobel prize in 1976 for his work with hepatitis.

The best models for the human body are our closest relatives, the primates; hence the interest in the ecological and historical variables influencing monkey and ape anatomy and physiology. The human fossil record is given much attention by the popular press, but physical anthropologists are most likely to be employed because of their expertise in human anatomy, genetics, growth and/or physiology.

The importance of a strong biology background is reflected in the dual Anthropology/Biology Combined Major. Undergraduate training in Biological Anthropology provides the requisite background for some entry-level technical positions in disease control, at population centers, blood centers, forensic laboratories, medical schools and universities; and can serve as the basis for more advanced studies in the health-related professions (e.g. doctor, physician's assistant).

Western Washington University undergraduates seeking a BA in Anthro/Bio within a four-year time span should have completed the following courses by the start of their junior year: Chem 121,122,123; Biology 204, 205, 206; and Anth 201. Note that a 3.0 in the Biology 200 series is necessary to be admitted to Phase II of the Anthro/Bio major. In addition, the chemistry and biology classes must be completed during the first two years or by the completion of 75 credits.

Transfer students interested in the Anthropology/Biology major are advised to complete a year of chemistry and biology before entering the the program. Fulfilling these courses prior to entering Western may considerably shorten the many quarters necessary to complete the major. Students are welcome to contact our Department Office at (360) 650-3620 or the
Biology Department for more information and advisement.

 

Combined Major - Anthropology/Biology BA 

86 credits including19 in supporting courses; Biology Phase II status required for admission into 300- and 400-level biology courses for biology majors. 
bullet Chem 121, 122, 123 (or Chem 125, 126, 225)
bullet Chem 251 (or 351, 352, 353)
bullet Phys 101 or 114 (Phys 115 recommended)
bullet Biol 204, 205, 206, 321, 348, 349
bullet Anth 335 or Biol 340 or Math 240
bullet Anth 201, 210, 215
bullet 10 credits in anthropology under advisement
bullet 8 credits of biology under advisement
bullet Anth 496
Program advisers: R. Anderson, Biology, and J. Stevenson, Michael Grimes, Anthropology. Students should also consider the human biology concentration in the Biology Department with a minor in anthropology. 

Combined Major - Biology/Anthropology  
101-104 credits. Basic requirements: supporting courses 34-37 credits; Biology Phase II status required for admission into 300- and 400-level biology courses for biology majors. 
bullet Chem 121, 122, 123 (or CHEM 125, 126, 225)
bullet Chem 351 and 352 (or 251 only with approval of adviser); Chem 353 and 354 recommended
bullet Physics 114, 115; 116 recommended (or Physics 121, 122, 123, 131, 132, 133)
bullet Math 124
   Basic requirements: Biology 14 credits 
bullet Biol 204, 205, 206
   Basic requirements: Anthropology 15 credits 
bullet Anth 201, 210, 215
   Breadth requirements: 16-19 credits 
bullet Biol 321, Biol 325 or Anth 350, Biol 340 or Anth 335: BIOL 432 or Anth 423
   Depth requirements: 12-15 credits 
bullet Biol 348, Biol 349 or 467
bullet Biol 432 or Anth 423
bullet One of the following: Anth 308, 422, 424 or Biol 410
bullet Electives: Biol 323, 322 or 324, 345, 382, 410, 465, 467, 478,
Anth 308, 422, 424, 466; other electives under advisement

  Completion requirement:  1 credit

bullet Anth 496

Program Advisers: R. Anderson, Biology, and J. Stevenson, Michael Grimes, Anthropology