Anthropology is the study of humankind and its evolution, present and future prospects of human life. It considers human beings as biological and social entities, and seeks to explain both diversities and commonalities of peoples and cultures. The subject anthropology is changing rapidly in response to the changing social, biological, demographic, political, educational and economic scenario.
The Department of Studies in Anthropology was established in the year 1973 with a view to impart training in anthropology at the post-graduate level, doctoral programme and to promote anthropological research in diverse areas. Department of Studies in Anthropology is at the heart of the university, one of its most important subjects. It is central to the shared objective of extending perspectives, fostering cross-cultural outlooks, challenging predefined assumptions and critical engagement with urgent issues.
We also are cooperating with JSS Medical College, JSS Deemed University, Mysuru, Tribal Research Institute, Govt. of Karnataka, Museums of Anthropological Survey of India (ASI) and Indira Gandhi Rastriya Manava Sangrahalaya (IGRMS) to share our interests in redefining the study of culture, art and the origins of varied societies.
Focussed areas
It focuses on issues of globalism, gender studies, tribal issues, development anthropology, demography, medical anthropology, cultural variations, visual anthropology, dental anthropology, public policy, critical theories, nutritional anthropology, ethnic violence, tribal health, local experience etc.
Chairs/Fellowship/Medals
1. Gold Medal: Mrs.Sudha Murthy Gold Medal
2. Cash Prize: Prof. Venkatarayappa Cash Prize
Research activities
The faculty members are actively involved in guiding students leading to Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D) and Post- Doctoral research. The Department undertakes research projects sponsored by UGC, Tribal Research Institute, ICMR, ICSSR, State Government/ Central Government (Social Welfare, MHRD, Department of Science and Technology, Ministry of Tribal Affaires) Industry, NGOs, etc.
Facilities for students
The Department has a collection of some valuable reference books collected by former heads and other teachers of the department. Students are permitted to make use of the library and work/refer during working hours. The Department is well equipped with the necessary educational aids.
The computer laboratory has PCs with internet facilities for the use of students. It has the latest configured computers with all necessary software's installed in it. The Department has strived to make the students proficient in soft skills alongwith the core curriculum so that the students have good placement opportunities.
Staff-student interaction takes place in the form of individual meeting, conferences and group discussions. Here the expert faculty guide and supervise the students in fieldwork and also mentor the students in professional growth. Various methodology courses, workshops and skills training programmes are also conducted to cater to the job demands of the market.
Career opportunities
Job opportunities for the students of Anthropology
Civil services & competive examinations, Forensic science departments, Ministry of Rural Development, Child development, ASI, IGRMS, Ministry of External affairs, Ministry of Tribal Development, Department of Social Justice, Tribal Research Institutes, Central Institute of Indian Languages (CIIL), Population Research Centres, Community Development Programmes, NTPC Rehabilitation Programmes, Faculty in ICSSR Institutes, Teaching positions in the departments of Anthropology in different universities. Teaching jobs in Pre-University and degree Colleges, Social Scientists in different research institutes etc.
Research jobs are also available in National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) and Census of India, Post- Doctoral Fellowships, Project Assistant.
Students are expected to work in the fields of academic, government, NGOs, law, medicine, and business
Research and advocacy
The Department has organised a number of seminars and conferences as well as special lectures by eminent scholars/experts/resource persons from different parts of the country and also from abroad. It helps to improve the skill and academic knowledge of the students. In this way faculty members support the students and help simultaneously to get employment opportunities. Students can draw on the exceptional regional expertise of anthropologists while gaining a broad education in the subject, and an irrepressible curiosity about the world.
Linkages with other institutions
Karnataka State Tribal Research Institute-(KSTRI)
Anthropological Survey of India, Mysore( AnSI)
ICMR
JSS
Our mission
During the next two decades is to develop new methodologies for an anthropology that tracks cultural developments in a global economy, political discourses and related issues.
The department is located at Manasagangotri postgraduate campus of the university. Click on the image below for a detailed map of the campus and the city.
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