Bachelor's in Anthropology: Human Health and Biology

The University of Oklahoma (OU) has been a cornerstone of higher education since its establishment in 1890. As a public research university, OU has a diverse academic portfolio, offering a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs across disciplines. OU is renowned for its vibrant campus life, fostering a sense of community and inclusivity. Boomer Sooner spirit runs deep, and students engage in a variety of extracurricular activities, from cultural and athletic events to research initiatives. The university's commitment to research and innovation is evident in its state-of-the-art facilities and collaborative projects that contribute to advancements in various fields. With a focus on preparing students for success in a rapidly evolving world, the University of Oklahoma continues to be a hub of academic achievement, creativity, and social responsibility.

Health is shaped by biology, environment, and behavior. Human evolutionary history impacts infectious and other disease risk. Culture also plays a role in disease risk, and shapes etiologic, diagnostic, and treatment frameworks used by both patients and health care personnel. Culturally appropriate interventions are a cornerstone to addressing health disparities. There is increasing evidence for the role of the microbiome in health, and for the role of behavioral factors in shaping microbiome. Anthropology is uniquely situated to examine health from a holistic perspective that takes into account biological and cultural diversity. The Department of Anthropology offers a Bachelor of Science option in Human Health and Biology. The objectives of this program are to foster an awareness of human biological and cultural diversity, to promote an understanding of biocultural and evolutionary perspectives on health and disease, and to enable students to obtain the foundation in chemistry, biology, and mathematics needed for medical school, for graduate study in health-related fields, and for a range of entry-level health professions. In addition to connecting students with interests in the life sciences to biological and medical anthropology, the program requires additional coursework in other areas of anthropology (cultural anthropology; archaeology; linguistic anthropology) to provide a deeper understanding of the human condition.