Anthropology Courses at MJC
Anthro 101 - Physical Anthropology
Introduction to human evolution. The evidence for human biological and behavioral adaptations is examined. Issues and topics will include the principles of genetics and evolution, human variation, comparative primate anatomy/behavior, and an assessment of the human fossil record. Field trips may be required. Lecture: 3 hours. Transferable to CSU and UC campuses (CAN ANTH 2).
Anthro 105 -Physical Anthropology
Laboratory
Laboratory investigation of methods and techniques of human evolution and variation, including use of the scientific method, anthropometrics, and an analysis of the functional morphology of primates. Lines of evidence examined will include the study of population genetics, comparative anatomy and behavior of primates, forensic anthropology, human fossils and their reconstruction. Field trips may be required. Lecture/Laboratory: 3 hours. Transferable to CSU and UC campuses. Coordinates with Anthro 101 (Physical Anthropology). To be taken concurrently with or after Anthro 101. Letter grade only.
Anthro 102 - Cultural
Anthropology
Introduction to the methods, theories and insights of cultural anthropology and the application of these to life in a multicultural society. Topics include, but are not limited to: the nature of culture, cross-cultural comparative patterns in the areas of subsistence patterns, economics, religion, kinship, gender, language, political organization. Recommended for people who travel internationally. Field trips may be required. Lecture: 3 hours. Transferable to CSU and UC campuses (CAN ANTH 4).
Anthro 104 - Language, Culture and Communication
An introduction to the anthropological study of language. Topics include a survey of linguistics, including phonetics, phonology, morphology, syntax and semantics; the ethnography of communication; classification and cultural meaning; the evolution of language, and historical linguistics. (A-F and CR/NC). Applicable to the Associate Degree. Transfer: CSU, UC. General Education: (MJC-GE B, C). (CSU-GE: D1 or C2).
Anthro 107 - Forensic Anthropology Introduction
Introduction to forensic anthropology as an applied field of physical anthropology; the methods of solving crimes with anthropological data and applying techniques designed for the analysis of human skeletal remains (personal identification, the determination of population and cause of death, DNA analysis, and issues of collection of physical evidence). Interaction between anthropologists and law enforcement agencies and human rights issues. (A-F and CR/NC). Applicable to the Associate Degree. Transfer: CSU.
Anthro 130 - Archaeology and
Cultural Prehistory
An introduction to anthropological archaeology including concepts, theories, and methods employed by archaeologists in reconstructing past life ways of humans. Topics include history and interdisciplinary nature of archaeological research; data acquisition, analysis and interpretation with a discussion of applicable data and models; cultural resource management; selected cultural sequences. Field trips may be required. Lecture: 3 hours.
Anthro 140 - Magic, Witchcraft, and Religion
A cross-cultural study of the forms and functions of supernatural beliefs and associated rituals in various societies of Africa, Asia, aboriginal Australia, Oceania, South America, native North America and elsewhere. Emphasis on analyzing beliefs and rituals within their cultural contexts, and on broad comparison, to derive insight into the place of belief and ritual in human life. Field trips may be required. Lecture: 3 hours. Transferable to CSU and UC campuses.
Anthro 150 - Native People of North America
Introductory survey of the origins and varied adaptations made by the aboriginal cultures north of Mexico. Protohistoric and historic periods are emphasized. Special consideration of the aboriginal cultures of California. Emphasis on the techniques of data collection, analysis and interpretation. Field trips may be required. Lecture: 3 hours. Transferable to CSU and UC campuses.
Anthro 174 - Field Studies in Anthropology (3 Unit)
Date Last revised: February 28, 2008
