Anthropology
Anthropology
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Anthropology
Manu Ampim
Anthropology Department Chair
General Education Bldg., Room 308G
MAmpim@contracosta.edu
Anthropology at Contra Costa College
Part of the Social Sciences Department, the Anthropology Program at Contra Costa College offers a student-centered approach to exploring what it means to be human—past, present, and future.
You’ll dive into the study of human origins, culture, language, and behavior through classroom learning and opportunities for fieldwork. From examining archaeological records and fossil evidence to exploring global customs, values, and belief systems, anthropology gives you the tools to understand both ancient civilizations and contemporary social issues like inequality, violence, and environmental change.
Our program introduces you to the five major subfields of anthropology: sociocultural, linguistic, biological (or physical), and archaeology—preparing you for transfer or future careers in education, research, social services, museums, and beyond.
What is Anthropology
Anthropology is the holistic study of humanity—how we evolved, how we live, and how we understand the world. It blends science and the humanities to explore everything from ancient tools and languages to modern social challenges, helping us see both the diversity and common threads of the human experience.
Anthropology Program Maps
Associate Degrees
Explore the Subfields of Anthropology
Sociocultural Anthropology
Sociocultural anthropologists examine the customs, cultures, and social dynamics of communities—ranging from small, non-industrialized societies to complex urban environments.
Linguistic Anthropology
Linguistic anthropologists investigate the history, role, and evolution of language across cultures, exploring how language shapes identity, social life, and cultural transmission.
Physical Anthropology
Physical anthropologists, including primatologists, study our closest genetic relatives to understand the biological and behavioral connections between humans and other primates.
Biological Anthropology
Biological anthropologists focus on human evolution, searching for early evidence of human life and examining how biology and culture have shaped our species over time.
Archaeology
Archaeologists recover and analyze material remains—like tools, pottery, cave art, and ancient ruins—to uncover the histories, technologies, and daily lives of past civilizations.
Student Resources
At Contra Costa College, we provide essential resources to support your academic journey. Our Academic Counseling, Basic Needs Center, Career Services, and Transfer Services are designed to help you succeed in your studies, manage personal challenges, prepare for your career, and smoothly transition to four-year institutions.