Bridging Disciplines for Deeper Understanding

Whether in the classroom, lab, field or museum, anthropology at DU is a center for creative research and experiential learning. We examine human biological and cultural diversity, combining expertise from cultural, biological and museum anthropology with archaeology to model what a publicly engaged, ethical anthropology looks like. Our award-winning faculty are leaders in their areas of specialization and subfields of anthropology. Small class sizes and opportunities to work closely with faculty help you identify and pursue what makes anthropology meaningful to you.

Undergraduates can major or minor in our flexible anthropology degree programs, or take a more multidisciplinary path with a minor in urban studies. Master’s students can pursue tracks in archaeology, cultural anthropology, or museum and heritage studies. Access to internships and study abroad opportunities, a variety of research options, and connections to professional networks uniquely prepare you for a career in anthropology.

Our Vision and Values

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As part of the oldest independent research institution in the Rocky Mountain West, we aim to be a leading voice in publicly engaged anthropological study. Connecting scientific and humanistic research methods across disciplines deepens our attunement to the diversity of human experience and allows for meaningful cultural exchange. Our experiential learning environments situate students as engaged learners and ethical citizens with respect for cultural and natural heritage.

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Find your passion in Anthropology.

See our undergraduate and graduate degree programs

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The University of Denver Museum of Anthropology

The University of Denver Museum of Anthropology is a center for research, teaching, experiential learning and socially engaged practice. DUMA teaches the ethical practice of conservation, interpretation, representation and management of collections. Through collaborations with community partners—local and global—DUMA upholds DU's mission to serve the public good.

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The Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act

NAGPRA provides a process for descendants and tribes to request the return of human remains and cultural items from museums and federal agencies. At the center of this work, DU’s Museum of Anthropology is committed to bringing together people with all levels of expertise to connect, collaborate and share knowledge in implementing NAGPRA.

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Faculty and Student Research

Our campus and archaeology labs give you the opportunity to work directly with faculty and other students on research and community-engaged projects.

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At the University of Denver, I gained hands-on experience in the Museum of Anthropology, which has launched me into the world of museum studies. 

Briana Wilberding, BA in Anthropology & Spanish