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Anthropology and Sociology

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Uniting the social and cultural 

Linking two fields together, the Anthropology and Sociology program seeks to study the ways in which people live and interact together under various social and cultural conditions. By understanding the multifaceted dimensions of human societies, the disciplines seek to understand human behavior, social interactions and institutional structures in all their diversity.

Anthropology and Sociology News

Student SpotlightMeghan Filmer '24

Major: Anthropology and Sociology
Minor: Public Policy Studies 

"Taking Anthropology classes at Hobart and William Smith has allowed me the opportunity to complete several research projects. In “Research Methods,” I was able to research social relationships on campus between athletes and non-athletes, focusing on the importance of labeling and status in a community while in my “Food, Meaning, and Voice” capstone, I researched the cultural significance of food and gender throughout the world. The Anthropology program at HWS has given me the ability to look at communities and topics with a wider lens and to understand how different factors create a working culture that has meaning to its people. I hope in the future to utilize the skills that this program has given me to work in mediation and humanitarian efforts." 

 

Experiential EducationAn Actionable Scale

Engage in community-based research in the City of Geneva or attend a discussion-inducing lecture at the Fisher Center for the Study of Gender and Justice.

Because learning goes beyond textbooks or classrooms and into the community, you’ll get to explore the world’s most pressing issues while building the skills and insights you need to play a role in making its better future.

 
Explore and Experience at the HWS Centers

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No Borders:Global Education

Most Anthropology and Sociology majors engage in an experience abroad. Wherever you go, our top-ranked global education program will allow you to apply classroom knowledge, develop cultural understanding and build global connections that expand your personal capacity and sense of purpose.

Study Abroad Options

Abroad

 

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The departments of Anthropology and Sociology work together to provide an interdisciplinary experience to students in the program. Choose between a variety of courses in the individual Anthropology and Sociology departments to complete your major.

Anthropology Courses and Curriculum Sociology Courses and Curriculum Anthropology Faculty Directory Sociology Faculty Directory

Alum Impact

ALLISON JORDAN ’21

J.D. Candidate at Northeastern University Law School 

An introductory course in sociology, a Witness to Innocence event on campus and involvement with the Centennial Center’s LEADS program inspired Allison to find solutions to the inequalities that exist in the world.

“The skills I have developed at Hobart and William Smith will allow me to engage with the community I am working with in meaningful ways. I am excited to apply them through my journey as an AmeriCorps member and beyond.”

Read Allison's Story Meet More Recent Grads

companies that employ our graduates 

  • Buffalo Bills
  • Eastman Kodak Company
  • IBM
  • Johns Hopkins School of Medicine
  • Microsoft
  • The Museum of Modern Art
  • National Park Service
  • New York Magazine
  • Yale University

Universities where our graduates are studying

  • Boston College of Social Work
  • Case Western University School of Law
  • Columbia University
  • Northeastern University Law School 
  • Pace University Law School
  • Rutgers University
  • Simmons College
  • Syracuse University
  • University College Lond 
  • University of Pennsylvania
  • University of Utah Law School