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Anthropology

Overview Degrees/Certificates Courses

Anthropology is the study of humankind around the world and throughout time, with the goal of understanding our evolutionary origins, our biological distinction as a species, and our diverse manifestations of culture. This degree provides students with basic skills in critical analysis, application of the scientific method, and cross-cultural understanding.

Our curriculum includes introductory courses, archaeology, world prehistory, cultures, and current issues in anthropology.

Degrees Offered

A.A.-T. in Anthropology
A.S. in Anthropology
A.S. in General Science

Dean Kathy Sorensen
Department Chair AnnMarie Beasley Cisneros
Phone (916) 484-8283
Email BeasleA@arc.losrios.edu

Associate Degrees for Transfer

A.A.-T. in Anthropology

The Associate in Arts in Anthropology for Transfer (AA-T) program provides students with a major that fulfills the general requirements for transfer to a California State University. Students with this degree will receive priority admission with junior status to the California State University system. Students should work closely with their American River College counselor to ensure that they are taking the appropriate coursework to prepare for majoring in Anthropology at the institution they wish to transfer to because major and general education requirements may vary for each CSU and the degree may only transfer to specific institutions.

Students must complete the following Associate Degree for Transfer (ADT) requirements (pursuant to SB1440, §66746):
• 60 semester or 90 quarter CSU-transferable units
• the California General Education Transfer Curriculum (Cal-GETC) pattern
• a minimum of 18 semester or 27 quarter units in the major or area of emphasis as determined by the community college district
• obtain a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 2.0

All ADTs also require that students must earn a “C” or better in all courses required for the major or area of emphasis. A "P" (Pass) grade is also an acceptable grade for courses in the major if the course is taken on a Pass/No Pass basis.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2025

Degree Requirements

Course Code	Course Title	Units
Required Core:
ANTH 300	Biological Anthropology (3)	3
or ANTH 480	Honors Biological Anthropology (3)
ANTH 301	Biological Anthropology Laboratory	1
ANTH 310	Cultural Anthropology (3)	3
or ANTH 481	Honors Cultural Anthropology (3)
ANTH 320	Introduction to Archaeology and World Prehistory	3
List A:
A minimum of 6 units from the following:		6
ANTH 330	Magic, Witchcraft, and Religion (3)
ANTH 334	Native Peoples of North America (3)
ANTH 336	Anthropology of Sex, Sexuality and Gender (3)
ANTH 341	Introduction to Linguistics (3)
STAT C1000	Introduction to Statistics (4)
or ECON 310	Statistics for Business and Economics (3)
or PSYC 330	Introductory Statistics for the Behavioral Sciences (3)
or STAT C1000H	Introduction to Statistics - Honors (4)
List B:
A minimum of 3 units from the following:		3
Any course from List A not already used or
ANTH 303	Introduction to Forensic Anthropology (3)
ANTH 321	Ancient Technology (3)
ANTH 333	American Indians of California (3)
ANTH 335	Research Methods in Anthropology (3)
ANTH 337	The Anthropology of Food (3)
ANTH 370	Primatology (3)
COMM 325	Intercultural Communication (3)
DEAF 351	Introduction to American Deaf Culture (3)
GEOG 310	Human Geography: Exploring Earth's Cultural Landscapes (3)
GEOG 334	Introduction to GIS Software Applications (3)
HIST 323	History of the United States: The American Indian Experience (3)
HIST 327	History of the Chicano/Mexican American (3)
HIST 330	Women in American History (3)
HIST 332	Women in American History (To 1877) (3)
HIST 333	Women in American History (1865-Present) (3)
HIST 373	History of Mexico (3)
HIST 374	History of Latin America to 1830 (3)
MUFHL 330	World Music (3)
PSYC 365	Issues of Diverse Populations (3)
or HSER 330	Issues of Diverse Populations (3)
RLST 301	Introduction to World Religions (3)
SOC 300	Introductory Sociology (3)
or SOC 480	Introductory Sociology - Honors (3)
SOC 302	Introduction to Social Research Methods (3)
or PSYC 335	Research Methods in Psychology (3)
SOC 321	Race, Ethnicity and Inequality in the United States (3)
TA 306	Diversity in American Drama (1960 to Present) (3)
Total Units:		19

The Associate in Arts in Anthropology for Transfer (AA-T) degree may be obtained by completion of 60 transferable, semester units with a minimum 2.0 GPA, including (a) the major or area of emphasis described in the Required Program, and (b) the California General Education Transfer Curriculum (Cal-GETC) Requirement.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

apply the science of anthropology towards a holistic understanding of human nature.
synthesize the principles that form the foundation of anthropology.
analyze social and ethical issues using anthropological concepts and methods.
assess the cultural, physical, and linguistic diversity expressed in our species.

Career Information

The AA-T degree provides students with a solid foundation in anthropology as well as the standard prerequisites for upper division coursework leading to the baccalaureate degree. Anthropologists with graduate degrees work in archaeological excavation and museum management, the analysis of cultures, linguistics, forensics, primatology, and education. They also consult with governmental, business, and educational institutions.

Associate Degrees

A.S. in Anthropology

Catalog Date: August 1, 2025

Degree Requirements

Course Code	Course Title	Units
ANTH 300	Biological Anthropology (3)	3
or ANTH 480	Honors Biological Anthropology (3)
ANTH 301	Biological Anthropology Laboratory	1
ANTH 310	Cultural Anthropology (3)	3
or ANTH 481	Honors Cultural Anthropology (3)
ANTH 320	Introduction to Archaeology and World Prehistory	3
A minimum of 8 units from the following:		8
ANTH 303	Introduction to Forensic Anthropology (3)
ANTH 321	Ancient Technology (3)
ANTH 330	Magic, Witchcraft, and Religion (3)
ANTH 333	American Indians of California (3)
ANTH 334	Native Peoples of North America (3)
ANTH 335	Research Methods in Anthropology (3)
ANTH 336	Anthropology of Sex, Sexuality and Gender (3)
ANTH 341	Introduction to Linguistics (3)
ANTH 370	Primatology (3)
Total Units:		18

The Anthropology Associate in Science (A.S.) degree may be obtained by completion of the required program, and either (a) the Local General Education Pattern or (b) the California General Education Transfer Curriculum (Cal-GETC), plus sufficient electives for a total of at least 60 units. See ARC graduation requirements.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

apply the science of anthropology towards a holistic understanding of human nature.
synthesize the principles that form the foundation of anthropology.
analyze social and ethical issues related to the field of anthropology and its practical applications.
analyze the cultural, physical, and linguistic diversity expressed in our species.

Career Information

This degree provides students with a solid foundation in anthropology as well as the standard prerequisites for upper division coursework leading to the baccalaureate degree. Anthropologists with graduate degrees work in occupations ranging from archaeological excavation, exploration, and museum management to the analysis of cultures, linguistics, forensics, primatology, teaching, and consulting with governmental and educational institutions.

A.S. in General Science

This program provides a broad study in the fields of biological and physical sciences in preparation for transfer to a four-year program and continuation of studies in upper division science courses.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2025

Degree Requirements

Course Code	Course Title	Units
A minimum of 18 units from the following:		18¹
Physical Science Courses
ASTR 300	Introduction to Astronomy (3)
ASTR 310	The Solar System (3)
ASTR 320	Stars, Galaxies, and Cosmology (3)
ASTR 330	Introduction to Astrobiology (3)
ASTR 400	Astronomy Laboratory (1)
ASTR 481	Honors Astronomy: Stars, Galaxies, and Cosmology (4)
ASTR 495	Independent Studies in Astronomy (1 - 3)
ASTR 499	Experimental Offering in Astronomy (0.5 - 4)
CHEM 305	Introduction to Chemistry (5)
CHEM 306	Introduction to Organic and Biological Chemistry (5)
CHEM 309	Integrated General, Organic, and Biological Chemistry (5)
CHEM 310	Chemical Calculations (4)
CHEM 338	Chemistry In Your World (3)
CHEM 400	General Chemistry I (5)
CHEM 401	General Chemistry II (5)
CHEM 420	Organic Chemistry I (5)
CHEM 421	Organic Chemistry II (5)
CHEM 423	Organic Chemistry - Short Survey (5)
CHEM 495	Independent Studies in Chemistry (1 - 3)
CHEM 499	Experimental Offering in Chemistry (0.5 - 4)
GEOG 300	Physical Geography: Exploring Earth's Environmental Systems (3)
GEOG 301	Physical Geography Laboratory (1)
GEOG 305	Global Climate Change (3)
GEOG 306	Weather and Climate (3)
GEOG 307	Environmental Hazards and Natural Disasters (3)
GEOG 308	Introduction to Oceanography (3)
GEOG 309	Introduction to Oceanography Lab (1)
GEOG 391	Field Studies in Geography: Mountain Landscapes (1 - 4)
GEOG 392	Field Studies in Geography: Coastal Landscapes (1 - 4)
GEOG 393	Field Studies in Geography: Arid Landscapes (1 - 4)
GEOG 394	Field Studies in Geography: Volcanic Landscapes (1 - 4)
GEOG 495	Independent Studies in Geography (1 - 3)
GEOG 499	Experimental Offering in Geography (0.5 - 4)
GEOL 300	Physical Geology (3)
GEOL 301	Physical Geology Laboratory (1)
GEOL 305	Earth Science (3)
GEOL 306	Earth Science Laboratory (1)
GEOL 310	Historical Geology (3)
GEOL 311	Historical Geology Laboratory (1)
GEOL 320	Global Climate Change (3)
GEOL 325	Environmental Hazards and Natural Disasters (3)
GEOL 330	Introduction to Oceanography (3)
GEOL 331	Introduction to Oceanography Lab (1)
GEOL 345	Geology of California (3)
GEOL 392	Field Studies in Mountain Landscapes (1 - 4)
GEOL 393	Field Studies in Coastal Landscapes (1 - 4)
GEOL 394	Field Studies in Volcanic Landscapes (1 - 4)
GEOL 495	Independent Studies in Geology (1 - 3)
GEOL 499	Experimental Offering in Geology (0.5 - 4)
PHYS 310	Conceptual Physics (3)
PHYS 311	Basic Physics (3)
PHYS 312	Conceptual Physics Laboratory (1)
PHYS 350	General Physics (4)
PHYS 360	General Physics (4)
PHYS 410	Mechanics of Solids and Fluids (5)
PHYS 421	Electricity and Magnetism (4)
PHYS 431	Heat, Waves, Light and Modern Physics (4)
PHYS 495	Independent Studies in Physics (1 - 3)
PHYS 499	Experimental Offering in Physics (0.5 - 4)
Biological Science Courses
ANTH 300	Biological Anthropology (3)
ANTH 301	Biological Anthropology Laboratory (1)
ANTH 303	Introduction to Forensic Anthropology (3)
ANTH 370	Primatology (3)
ANTH 480	Honors Biological Anthropology (3)
ANTH 495	Independent Studies in Anthropology (1 - 3)
ANTH 499	Experimental Offering in Anthropology (0.5 - 4)
BIOL 300	The Foundations of Biology (3)
BIOL 301	Evolution (3)
BIOL 303	Survey of Biology (4)
BIOL 304	Essentials of Human Anatomy and Physiology (4)
BIOL 305	Natural History (4)
BIOL 310	General Biology (4)
BIOL 322	Ethnobotany (3)
BIOL 332	Introduction to Ornithology (4)
BIOL 342	The New Plagues: New and Ancient Infectious Diseases Threatening World Health (3)
BIOL 352	Conservation Biology (3)
BIOL 370	Marine Biology (4)
BIOL 375	Marine Ecology (3)
BIOL 390	Natural History Field Study (0.5 - 4)
BIOL 400	Principles of Biology (5)
BIOL 410	Principles of Botany (5)
BIOL 415	Introduction to Biology: Biodiversity, Evolution, and Ecology (5)
BIOL 420	Principles of Zoology (5)
BIOL 430	Anatomy and Physiology (5)
BIOL 431	Anatomy and Physiology (5)
BIOL 440	General Microbiology (4)
BIOL 442	General Microbiology and Public Health (5)
BIOL 482	Honors Marine Biology (4)
BIOL 495	Independent Studies in Biology (1 - 3)
BIOL 499	Experimental Offering in Biology (0.5 - 4)
BIOT 301	Biotechnology and Human Health (3)
BIOT 305	Introduction to Bioinformatics (1)
BIOT 307	Biotechnology and Society (2)
BIOT 311	Biotechnology Laboratory Methods - Molecular Techniques (2)
BIOT 312	Biotechnology Laboratory Methods - Microbial and Cell Culture Techniques (2)
BIOT 499	Experimental Offering in Biology (0.5 - 4)
NATR 300	Introduction to Natural Resource Conservation and Policy (4)
NATR 301	Introduction to Ornithology (4)
NATR 302	Introduction to Wildlife Biology (4)
NATR 303	Energy and Sustainability (3)
NATR 304	The Forest Environment (3)
NATR 305	Fisheries Ecology and Management (4)
NATR 306	Introduction to Rangeland Ecology and Management (3)
NATR 307	Principles of Sustainability (4)
NATR 310	Study Design and Field Methods (4)
NATR 320	Principles of Ecology (4)
NATR 322	Environmental Restoration (3)
NATR 324	Field Studies: Birds and Plants of the High Sierra (1.5)
NATR 330	Native Trees and Shrubs of California (4)
NATR 332	Wildflowers of California (4)
NATR 346	Water Resources and Conservation (3)
NATR 495	Independent Studies in Natural Resources (1 - 3)
NATR 499	Experimental Offering in Natural Resources (0.5 - 4)
PSYC 310	Biological Psychology (3)
PSYC 311	Biological Psychology Laboratory (1)
Total Units:		18

¹must be transfer-level and must include one laboratory course in a physical science and one laboratory course in a biological science

The General Science Associate in Science (A.S.) degree may be obtained by completion of the required program, and either (a) the Local General Education Pattern or (b) the California General Education Transfer Curriculum (Cal-GETC), plus sufficient electives for a total of at least 60 units. See ARC graduation requirements.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

evaluate new and accepted ideas about the natural universe using scientific methods.
analyze a wide variety of natural phenomena using basic definitions and fundamental theories of biological or physical sciences.
apply appropriate quantitative and qualitative methods to interpret and analyze pertinent data.
outline the basic concepts and fundamental theories of a natural science.
articulate orally and/or in writing the importance of continuous examination and modification of accepted ideas as a fundamental element in the progress of science.
discuss ethical components of scientific decision making and apply personal and social values within the process of decision making in scientific endeavors.

Anthropology (ANTH) Courses

ANTH 300 Biological Anthropology

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Advisory:Eligibility for ENGL C1000/C1000H (formerly ENGWR 300/480) or ESLW 340
Transferable:CSU; UC (ANTH 300 & 480 combined: maximum credit - one course)
General Education:Local GE L5 (effective Fall 2025); Cal-GETC Area 5B (effective Fall 2025)
C-ID:C-ID ANTH 110
Catalog Date:August 1, 2025

This course covers the concepts, methods, and theory of biological evolution and its application to the human species. There is a specific focus on molecular, Mendelian, and population genetics as well as on the mechanisms of evolution primatology, paleoanthropology, biocultural adaptations, human variation, and current bioethical issues. The philosophy of science and the scientific method serve as foundations to this course. This course is not open to students who have completed ANTH 480.

ANTH 301 Biological Anthropology Laboratory

Units:1
Hours:54 hours LAB
Prerequisite:None.
Corequisite:ANTH 300 or 480
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:Cal-GETC Area 5C (effective Fall 2025)
C-ID:C-ID ANTH 115L
Catalog Date:August 1, 2025

This introductory laboratory course provides opportunities to become familiar with the scientific methods of biological anthropology by investigating topics in laboratory and field situations. Topics covered in the course include the scientific method, sources of biological variation and forces of evolution, human osteology, human variation, taxonomy and comparative osteology of the primates, and the fossil evidence for human evolution. Field trips may be required.

ANTH 303 Introduction to Forensic Anthropology

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Advisory:BIOL 102, BIOL 115, BIOL 430, OR ANTH 300 and 301; AND eligibility for ENGL C1000/C1000H (formerly ENGWR 300/480) or ESLW 340
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:Local GE L5 (effective Fall 2025); Cal-GETC Area 5B (effective Fall 2025)
Catalog Date:August 1, 2025

This course is an overview of forensic anthropology, an applied field of biological anthropology. Forensic anthropology uses the analysis of human skeletal remains to answer medicolegal questions. This course emphasizes current techniques used in analysis of human skeletal remains, medicolegal procedures, and the role of the anthropologist in the investigative process. It examines the basics of bone biology, methods of skeletal analysis, and recognition of bone pathology and trauma. Field trips may be required.

ANTH 310 Cultural Anthropology

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Advisory:Eligibility for ENGL C1000/C1000H (formerly ENGWR 300/480) or ESLW 340
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:Local GE L4 (effective Fall 2025); Cal-GETC Area 4 (effective Fall 2025)
C-ID:C-ID ANTH 120
Catalog Date:August 1, 2025

This course explores the various customs, traditions, and forms of social organizations from a global perspective. Topics include subsistence methods, belief and religious systems, linguistics, trade and economic systems, arts, kinship systems, marriage and family systems, technology, and changes due to internal and external forces. Gender, race, and ethnic identity are examined as well as the role of society in defining these terms. Using ethnographic case studies, this course examines how anthropological ethics, methods, and theories are applied to the study of human culture. This course is not open to students who have already completed ANTH 481.

ANTH 320 Introduction to Archaeology and World Prehistory

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Advisory:Eligibility for ENGL C1000/C1000H (formerly ENGWR 300/480) or ESLW 340
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:Local GE L4 (effective Fall 2025); Cal-GETC Area 4 (effective Fall 2025)
C-ID:C-ID ANTH 150
Catalog Date:August 1, 2025

This course is an introduction to the theories, concepts, and methods employed by the archaeologist in the study of human history and prehistory. It emphasizes the development and diverse evolution of social and cultural systems. It also explores the challenges and achievements of non-literate and traditional cultures, diverse communities, and social classes over time.

ANTH 321 Ancient Technology

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Advisory:ANTH 320; AND eligibility for ENGL C1000/C1000H (formerly ENGWR 300/480) or ESLW 340
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:Local GE L4 (effective Fall 2025)
Catalog Date:August 1, 2025

This course examines technological capabilities of pre-industrial societies using ethnographic and archaeological examples and an experimental approach. Topics include construction techniques of temporary and permanent structures, pottery construction, glassmaking, metallurgy, textile production, as well as bone, stone, wood, and other technologies crucial to human survival. Field trips may be required.

ANTH 330 Magic, Witchcraft, and Religion

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Advisory:Eligibility for ENGL C1000/C1000H (formerly ENGWR 300/480) or ESLW 340
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:Local GE L3 (effective Fall 2025); Local GE L4 (effective Fall 2025); Cal-GETC Area 4 (effective Fall 2025)
Catalog Date:August 1, 2025

This course is a cross-cultural study of supernatural beliefs and associated rituals in various societies around the world. Emphasis is on understanding the role of beliefs within their sociocultural context and in broad comparison to understand the general functions of beliefs and rituals in human life. Similarities and differences between traditional beliefs and world religions are also explored. Field trips may be required.

ANTH 333 American Indians of California

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Advisory:Eligibility for ENGL C1000/C1000H (formerly ENGWR 300/480) or ESLW 340
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:Local GE L4 (effective Fall 2025); Cal-GETC Area 4 (effective Fall 2025)
Catalog Date:August 1, 2025

This course surveys the sociocultural systems of California Indians from the prehistoric period to the present. In addition to offering an overview of the diversity and complexity of aboriginal California, it includes environmental adaptations, material culture, social structure, ideology, and response to change. Field trips may be required.

ANTH 334 Native Peoples of North America

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Advisory:Eligibility for ENGL C1000/C1000H (formerly ENGWR 300/480) or ESLW 340
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:Local GE L4 (effective Fall 2025); Cal-GETC Area 4 (effective Fall 2025)
Catalog Date:August 1, 2025

This course is an introductory survey of traditional Native American societies. It describes the peoples and cultures of North America and emphasizes native ecological adaptations, languages, social organizations, religions, mythologies and world views, and artistic representations. It also explores the interrelatedness of Indigenous Native American groups through trade, intermarriage, and other forms of cultural exchange. Field trips may be required.

ANTH 335 Research Methods in Anthropology

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:ANTH 300 or 310 with a grade of "C" or better
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:Local GE L4 (effective Fall 2025); Cal-GETC Area 4 (effective Fall 2025)
Catalog Date:August 1, 2025

This course introduces research methods for the field of Anthropology. It emphasizes familiarization with specific observational research methods and the practical application of these methods in a contemporary setting. Field trips may be required.

ANTH 336 Anthropology of Sex, Sexuality and Gender

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:Local GE L4 (effective Fall 2025); Cal-GETC Area 4 (effective Fall 2025)
Catalog Date:August 1, 2025

This course is an introductory overview from a global anthropological perspective of the relationship between sexual behavior and sexuality as well as gender and other socially ascribed statuses. Diverse modern and past human and non-human primate communities are compared bio-culturally. Integrating the basic branches of anthropology -- cultural, biological, linguistic and archaeological anthropology -- the course examines the role, function, and evolution of sex in the human primate. It examines the relationship between sex, sexuality, and gender to adaptation as well as to social behavior and to cultural variation. The implications of research methodologies and theory in investigating sex, sexuality, culture and biology are evaluated. This course will explore the impact of modern theories of gender and sexuality, such as queer theory and feminist perspectives, from an intersectional approach.

ANTH 337 The Anthropology of Food

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:Local GE L4 (effective Fall 2025); Cal-GETC Area 4 (effective Fall 2025)
Catalog Date:August 1, 2025

This course examines eating, drinking, and consuming behaviors around the world through time. The roles of rituals, taboos, and belief systems are reviewed. It includes a basic anthropological approach to the search for and explanation of human universals and variations. Comparing the habits of apes and monkeys, as well as the fossil record, this course addresses the evolution of the modern human body. Shifts in social and environmental conditions, as well as the impact of innovations in methods of preparation over time and in radically diverse communities are analyzed.

ANTH 341 Introduction to Linguistics

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Advisory:Eligibility for ENGL C1000/C1000H (formerly ENGWR 300/480) or ESLW 340
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:Local GE L3 (effective Fall 2025); Local GE L4 (effective Fall 2025); Cal-GETC Area 4 (effective Fall 2025)
C-ID:C-ID ANTH 130
Catalog Date:August 1, 2025

This introductory course serves as a foundation for understanding language from an anthropological perspective. It addresses such core questions as how, what, when, where, why, and with whom humans communicate. The course topics are formed along three core areas:
(1) structural linguistics, which include phonetics, phonology, morphology, syntax, and semantics;
(2) historical linguistics, which include language origin and evolution, structural change, and language genetics; and
(3) sociocultural linguistics, which include child and adult language acquisition, and cultural and psychological constraints within the context of linguistic ethnography.

ANTH 370 Primatology

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Advisory:ANTH 300
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:Local GE L4 (effective Fall 2025); Local GE L5 (effective Fall 2025)
Catalog Date:August 1, 2025

This course provides an analysis of nonhuman primate comparative morphology, behavior, and ecology. Areas of study include general primate morphology, diet and ecology, behavior including reproduction and social systems, cognition and intelligence, and primate conservation issues. Primates in both captive and free-ranging settings are examined. Field trips for primate observations may be required.

ANTH 391 Life and Culture Study Abroad

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Enrollment Limitation:The student must complete the pre-enrollment process into the Los Rios Community College District Study Abroad program as required by the American Institute for Foreign Studies (AIFS).
Transferable:CSU
Catalog Date:August 1, 2025

This course allows students to acquire a level of global competence while enrolled in the Los Rios Study Abroad program. Global competence is a continuing process of acquiring specific economic, historical, and geopolitical knowledge, which supports the intercultural communication skills and authentic lived experiences that allow a person to function in another culture, and result in attitudes of cultural appreciation and interdependence. While participating in a specific Study Abroad program the student will have opportunities to study and generally survey the host country's historical, cultural, and geopolitical influences, as well as the societal structures, to develop an understanding and appreciation of the host culture as different from U.S. American culture. Students may find information about the pre-enrollment meetings at the Study Abroad website, located at: http://www.arc.losrios.edu/Study_Abroad.htm

ANTH 480 Honors Biological Anthropology

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Enrollment Limitation:Eligibility for the Honors Program.
Transferable:CSU; UC (ANTH 300 & 480 combined: maximum credit - one course)
General Education:Local GE L5 (effective Fall 2025); Cal-GETC Area 5B (effective Fall 2025)
C-ID:C-ID ANTH 110
Catalog Date:August 1, 2025

This course is an introduction to the science of biological anthropology. It is a seminar-style honors course which approaches the topical material through class discussion which encourages problem solving techniques focusing on current anthropological issues. Weekly topical issues are presented in a case study format. Critical thinking skills are emphasized in responding to these issues. Topics include evolutionary theory, heredity, human variation, taxonomy and behavior of the living primates, and the fossil evidence of human evolution. This course differs from ANTH 300 in that it is offered as a seminar-style class with an emphasis on academic journal articles. This course is not open to students who have completed ANTH 300.

ANTH 481 Honors Cultural Anthropology

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:Placement into ENGL C1000H (formerly ENGWR 480).
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:Local GE L4 (effective Fall 2025); Cal-GETC Area 4 (effective Fall 2025)
C-ID:C-ID ANTH 120
Catalog Date:August 1, 2025

This course is an introduction to the various customs, traditions, and forms of social organization in both Western and non-Western societies. Multicultural perspectives are examined for such topics as subsistence methods, belief and religious systems, linguistics, trade and economic systems, arts, kinship systems, marriage and family systems, technology, and changes due to internal and external forces. This seminar-style honors course approaches the topical material through class discussion which encourages problem-solving techniques focusing on current anthropological issues. This course is not open to students who have completed ANTH 310.

ANTH 494 Topics in Anthropology

Units:1 - 3
Hours:18 - 54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Advisory:ENGWR 102 or 103, and ENGRD 116; OR ESLR 320 and ESLW 320; OR placement through assessment process.
Transferable:CSU
Catalog Date:August 1, 2025

This course is a concentrated study of current anthropological issues. Topics reflect contemporary issues and problems in the four traditional fields as well as an applied approach where appropriate. Issues in the area of physical anthropology are approached from a biological and ecological perspective; issues in cultural anthropology, linguistics, and archaeology are approached from a multi-cultural and international platform.

ANTH 495 Independent Studies in Anthropology

Units:1 - 3
Hours:54 - 162 hours LAB
Prerequisite:None.
Transferable:CSU
Catalog Date:August 1, 2025

Independent Study is an opportunity for the student to extend classroom experience in this subject, while working independently of a formal classroom situation. Independent study is an extension of work offered in a specific class in the college catalog. To be eligible for independent study, students must have completed the basic regular catalog course at American River College. They must also discuss the study with a professor in this subject and secure approval. Only one independent study for each catalog course will be allowed.

ANTH 499 Experimental Offering in Anthropology

Units:0.5 - 4
Prerequisite:None.
Transferable:CSU
Catalog Date:August 1, 2025

This is the experimental courses description.

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