Experiential Learning
Screening at Corvie Bay, Kiska Island, Alaska. Photo: Caroline Funk.
Learn anthropology by doing anthropology
Hands-on experience is central to anthropology at the University at Buffalo. From community-based internships to archaeological field schools and independent research, you will apply what you learn, work closely with faculty and build skills that prepare you for careers, graduate study and meaningful work beyond UB.
There is no single path in anthropology. Students build experience in ways that match their interests, goals and timeline. Many students combine more than one option during their undergraduate career.
Most students start by asking one question:
What do I want to try next?
If you want...
Undergraduate research with faculty
Anthropology students can work directly with faculty on research projects across archaeology, cultural anthropology, biological anthropology and medical anthropology. Research may take place in labs, field settings or community contexts and can begin early in your undergraduate experience.
You can:
- Join a faculty-led research project
- Conduct fieldwork or archival research
- Build skills in data collection, analysis and interpretation
- Prepare for honors theses, graduate school or research-focused careers
Internships
Internships allow you to apply anthropological perspectives beyond the classroom. Students gain experience in museums, public health organizations, nonprofits, legal services and community agencies at the local, state and national level.
Students are encouraged to:
- Explore opportunities early, as many internships have application deadlines
- Meet with the Director of Undergraduate Studies before participating if seeking academic credit
- Combine internships with coursework or independent study
- Students earn academic credit by enrolling in APY 496: Internship.
Recent internship settings include:
- Museums and cultural organizations
- Public health and social service agencies
- Environmental and preservation groups
- Refugee and community support organizations
Field schools
Field schools provide immersive training in anthropological research methods. These experiences are especially valuable for students interested in archaeology, cultural resource management, biological anthropology or graduate study.
UB field research course
APY 338: Field Research Archaeology
UB offers a six-week field school at active survey sites in the Buffalo region. Offered in conjunction with the Archaeological Survey, students gain hands-on experience in archaeological methods and professional practices commonly used in cultural resource management (CRM) careers.
National and international field schools
Anthropology students regularly participate in field schools across the United States and around the world. Programs offer training in excavation, ethnographic methods, bioarchaeology, primate behavior and heritage preservation.
Students have participated in programs:
- In the Buffalo region, including Old Fort Niagara through Buffalo State as a non-matriculating student
- Across the United States
- In countries such as Spain, Italy, Greece, Costa Rica, Poland, Kenya and Malta
Study abroad
Study abroad allows anthropology students to immerse themselves in new cultural settings while earning academic credit. These experiences strengthen cross-cultural skills and global awareness.
Before studying abroad:
- Meet with the Director of Undergraduate Studies to discuss academic planning and major credit
- After returning, submit a Petition Form and course syllabi for departmental review
Featured programs
- Albania: Environmental Change and Land Use - Lake Ohrid Archaeological Field School (Summer): Hands-on archaeological and paleoecological training along the UNESCO-listed shoreline of Lake Ohrid.
- Thailand: Studying Animal Behavior and Communication in the Wild (Summer): Field-based research on animal behavior while earning credit.
Independent research
Independent study allows you to explore a topic in depth with faculty mentorship.
Students earn academic credit by enrolling in:
- APY 499: Independent Study and Research
Funding your experience
The Department of Anthropology and the College of Arts and Sciences offer funding to support experiential learning opportunities.
Students are encouraged to apply for:
Start a project to build skills and gain real-world experience for your career. The Experiential Learning Network's Project Portal is the easiest place to get started! Once you start a project, you can also pursue an ELN Digital Badge to display your accomplishments to future employers and graduate schools.
Experiential learning helps you discover what excites you and prepares you for what comes next. Whether you want to do research, work in the community or study abroad, anthropology at UB gives you the flexibility and support to shape your path.
