Geography-Anthropology

  300 Bailey Hall, 37 College Ave, Gorham, ME 04038-1088

(207) 780-5321

  This is an interdisciplinary department where students learn to apply two disciplinary perspectives to the study of human-environmental interrelationships. Anthropology and geography are both holistic disciplines concerned with understanding cultural and environmental change. The faculty members are committed to fostering a sense of community among students and teachers, and there is a strong emphasis on teaching. The department has a map library of over 20,000 maps, a Geographic Information System (GIS) Laboratory, and an Archaeological Laboratory where curation of archaeological materials takes place. Field experiences are offered every summer. There is an active major's association which plans get-togethers, invites speakers, and arranges field trips. At present (2002) there are 90 majors actively pursuing a bachelor's degree in Geography-Anthropology.

  The Department offers the following programs: bachelor of arts in geography-anthropology, minor in anthropology, minor in archaeology, minor in geography, applied geography minor in planning, and a concentration in social sciences area major of College of Arts & Sciences. All students with majors or specific discipline minors in social sciences must achieve at least 6 credits with grades B or better in the requirements of those majors or minors. No grades of D will be counted toward fulfillment of the major or minor requirements. Except for Independent Studies, no required course may be repeated more than one time. All students are reminded that, in addition to meeting department requirements for the major, they must also meet the University's minimum proficiency requirements and the Core curriculum requirements.

  The Geography-Anthropology major requires a number of specified courses and electives comprising a total of 45-53 hours (excluding other University requirements) depending upon the program of study. Students earn a joint degree in geography-anthropology with a concentration in either geography or anthropology. While students may focus on one of the two disciplines, they are required to take courses from both. Students are required to have internship or fieldwork experiences, to be able to write well and communicate effectively, and to have a basic understanding of analytical techniques. Students who graduate with a major in Geography-Anthropology go on to work in planning, map making, environmental impact analysis, archaeological analysis, museum management, and teaching. Courses are offered on both campuses; the department and faculty offices are located in Gorham. Classes are offered during the academic year during day and evening hours.

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