Academics

The Institute of Intercultural and Anthropological Studies at Western Michigan University is home to WMU's existing undergraduate major and minor in anthropology, as well as the recently reinstated African American and African Studies major and minor.

To view the WMU Essential Studies Clusters, click here.

African American and African Studies

African American and African Studies emphasizes both an interdisciplinary approach and a global perspective in the study of the history and culture of peoples of African ancestry. Students are suggested to draw on a wide range of disciplines to fulfill their AAAS program requirements, including literature, history, sociology, economics, anthropology, music, drama, film and the visual arts.

Anthropology

Anthropology is a means to enhance our understanding of the human condition by integrating historical, cultural and biological perspectives. We provide students anthropological knowledge and critical thinking skills through teaching, mentoring, and conducting both scholarly and applied research. Our aim is to broaden appreciation of human diversity, both past and present, to explore issues of cultural and biological change, and to provide awareness of and affect the conditions of social differences and inequalities.

Minor in Race and Ethnic Relations

For information on this minor, click here.