Advisor: Dr. Joan Stevenson

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).

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.

Mid-Program Checkpoint

Western Washington University undergraduates seeking to complete a BA or BS degree in biology/anthropology (human biology emphasis) within a four-year time span should have completed the following courses by the start of their junior year. Major omissions from this list will make it difficult or impossible to complete this degree within two additional years.

• ANTH 201, 210, 215
• CHEM 121, 122, 123 (or CHEM 125, 126, 225)
• BIOL 204, 205, 206
• Physics and calculus

Note that a 2.9 average in both the Biology 200 series and Chemistry 100 series are 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.

DEGREE COURSEWORK & REQUIREMENTS

Combined Major - Anthropology/Biology BA  
101-104 Credits

89 credits including 23 in supporting courses; Biology Phase II status required for admission into 300- and 400-level biology courses for biology majors. 

Program advisers: Joann Otto, Biology, and Joan Stevenson, Anthropology.

Combined Major - Biology/Anthropology BS 
101-104 credits. Basic requirements: supporting courses 34-37 credits; basic, breadth, depth and elective courses 66 credits; 1 completion credit. Biology Phase II status required for admission into 300- and 400-level biology courses for biology majors. 

   Basic requirements: Biology 14 credits 

   Basic requirements: Anthropology 15 credits 

   Breadth requirements: 16-19 credits 

   Depth requirements: 12-15 credits 

    Electives: 3-9 credits to make 66 total when combined with the required biology and anthropology courses: 

Completion requirement:  1 credit

Program Advisers: Joann Otto, Biology, and Joan Stevenson, Anthropology