Imagine working on a dig site in Israel uncovering ancient artifacts and hearing stories from biblical times, having class amongst the ruins in Rome, or discussing fundamental cultural developments and differences on a pier overlooking the Australian coast. Studying abroad offers you an invaluable insight on what makes us human. Fascinating courses exist at universities around the world like “The Anthropology of Politics and Power” and “Body, Place, and Postcolonial Experience” at the University of Macquarie in Australia; or “Demographic Anthropology,” “Culture and Economy,” and “Environment and Human Life” at International Christian University in Japan. 

Anthropology Study Abroad Programs

As an archeology student, opportunities exist to earn credit doing field work at various dig site locations around the world. Faculty-led programs to the United Kingdom and Israel allow you to work with GVSU professors and students while working on the dig sites. As a cultural or linguistic anthropologist, you can utilize study abroad to gain valuable language experience as well as learn first-hand about another culture through immersion. Physical anthropologists can find opportunities to travel to areas close to our primate relatives and study the ecological environments in which they live.

Wherever your emphasis area lies in anthropology, studying abroad will encourage personal growth and allow you to forge professional connections, which will set you apart for graduate school and your future career.

Academic Advice

   First Year Students

 The earliest you can go abroad is the summer of your first year.
 Students may fulfill General Education Foundations and/or Issues requirements abroad.

 Sophomores & Upperclassmen 

• Check out Anthropology Field Schools and Internships!
• Students may take courses that satisfy some requirements in Anthropology for the General Education program. Be sure to begin planning at least six months in advance.
• Students do not need to speak a foreign language in order to study in a country where English is not the official language.
• An internship abroad will not only give students experience and insights into their specific field of interest, but will help them develop desirable cross-cultural skills and competency.
• Consider fulfilling your Issues General Education requirement abroad. Find out how!

Restrictions

• Courses will be reviewed on a case by case basis through the course equivalency process.

Keep in Mind

• Once you have selected a program, be sure to meet with your adviser to discuss your academic goal.
• Be sure to explore both GVSU and External options by browsing the Program Suggestions below. Students are not limited to GVSU study abroad programs.
• There are several opportunities to intern and or volunteer while abroad.
• Students are able to fulfill General Education Foundation requirements abroad as well as their General Education Issues requirement (reflection paper required). If you take at least 3 credits abroad, your Global Perspectives General Education requirement will automatically be fulfilled.

To determine the GVSU course equivalencies for courses taken abroad, please view the “How to Request Course Equivalencies” page. For more information contact Department Contact below.

Heather Van Wormer

Anthropology

221 LMH

[email protected]