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The Department of Anthropology offers students a broad and integrated understanding of humanity, examining cultural practices, biological diversity, and the material traces of past societies.

Through coursework that spans multiple perspectives and methods, students develop critical thinking, analytical, and research skills that prepare them to understand human variation and address contemporary social and scientific questions.

Research is a central part of the graduate student experience, with opportunities to engage in fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and community-based projects under close faculty mentorship. Students are encouraged to participate in original research that explores human origins, cultural change, and social relationships, gaining hands-on experience that supports academic growth and prepares them for careers in research, public service, and applied fields.

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Undergraduate
Learn more about our undergraduate programs, how to declare your major and access helpful resources to make the most of your learning experience at UWM.
Undergraduate Information
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Graduate
Explore our graduate programs, learn how to apply and access other helpful resources to for UWM graduate students.
Graduate Information

UW-Milwaukee Facts

Degrees Awarded4,9002024–2025
Students Who Are43%First-Generation Students
Undergraduate19,217Enrollment
Graduate3,887Enrollment

UWM Land Acknowledgement: We acknowledge in Milwaukee that we are on traditional Potawatomi, Ho-Chunk and Menominee homeland along the southwest shores of Michigami, North America’s largest system of freshwater lakes, where the Milwaukee, Menominee and Kinnickinnic rivers meet and the people of Wisconsin’s sovereign Anishinaabe, Ho-Chunk, Menominee, Oneida and Mohican nations remain present.   |   To learn more, visit the Electa Quinney Institute website.