Undergraduate Bulletin

Fall 2024

ANP: Biological Anthropology

ANP 101: Human Biology

The major concepts of biology are presented from historical, contemporary, and critical viewpoints. These concepts include the cell, the gene, molecular biology, development, and evolution. The human implications or values associated with each concept are emphasized. Formerly offered as BIO 101; not for credit in addition to BIO 101.

DEC:     E
SBC:     SNW

3 credits

ANP 120: Introduction to Biological Anthropology

An introduction to the evolutionary study of humans and nonhuman primates. The course provides an overview of basic evolutionary thought and principles; human variation and environmental adaptation; the anatomy, ecology, and behavior of nonhuman primates; the fossil record of nonhuman primates and human ancestors; current research on human origins; human behavior in an evolutionary context. When offered, ANP 121 is the associated laboratory component of ANP 120.

DEC:     E
SBC:     SNW

3 credits

ANP 121: Biological Anthropology Laboratory

Laboratory exploration of the fundamentals of Biological Anthropology based on a survey of the diversity and evolutionary history of humans and nonhuman primates. The development of scientific and evolutionary thought and method. The biological basis of inheritance and variation. Human variations and adaptations in relation to the environment. Physical characteristics and behavior of living primates. Evolution of primates and current research on human origins. Two hours of laboratory per week during which students will experience the research process, methods, and skills, and learn to collaborate in formal inquiry. Not for credit in addition to ANP 120 as offered prior to Fall 2010.

Corequisite: ANP 120

1 credit

ANP 201: Human Evolution

An overview of the evolution of the human lineage from its origins to the appearance of modern humans. Our evolutionary history involved some dramatic changes in anatomy and behavior, and we will explore both the significance of these changes, and the methods that scientists use interpret them. The human fossil record is abundant, and will be our central focus. Emphasis will be placed on how we learn things about the past, as well as what we know.

Advisory Prerequisite: ANP 120, GEO 102, GEO 103, GEO 109, or any BIO course

DEC:     E
SBC:     SNW

3 credits

ANP 202: People and Pups: Dog Behavior and Human-Canine Relationships

An introduction to the growing literature on dog evolution, behavior, and cognition to understand why dogs are so well adapted to socializing with humans and what role they play in our societies. This course provides students with a foundation in animal behavior, specifically dog behavior and human-canine relationships. Key questions will include: How do dogs communicate with each other and with us? Are dogs smarter than you think? And what is unique about the bond between people and their pups?

Prerequisite: one ANT/ANP/EBH/BIO course at the 100-level or higher with grade of C or better

SBC:     STAS

3 credits

ANP 220: Controversies in Human Biology and Behavior

The study of controversially debated issues in the work of Physical Anthropologists. Surveys general aspects of primate and human behavior, human variation and adaptation, and the evolution of humans and human ancestors exploring previous and recent debates that have centered around issues such as for example the concept of evolution, gender roles and mating systems, role of aggression, and the role of hunting and gathering.

Advisory prerequisite: Introductory Anthropology or Biology course

DEC:     H
SBC:     STAS

3 credits

ANP 250: Forensic Anthropology

This is an introductory survey course to the field of forensic anthropology. Topics that focus on the medicolegal significance of the recovery and analysis of human remains will be covered. Postmortem taphonomic processes that can affect a body, and determination of time since death will be discussed. Particular attention will be paid to the determination of personal identity, such as sex, age and stature, from skeletal remains, and the analysis of skeletal trauma and cause of death. Contemporary issues such as mass disasters and human rights issues will be covered.

Advisory Prerequisite: ANP 120

DEC:     E
SBC:     SNW

3 credits

ANP 300: Human Anatomy

An introduction to the structure of the human body considered from both systems and regional approaches. Subject matter includes the musculoskeletal, respiratory, nervous, cardiovascular, digestive, and urogenital systems, together with an appreciation of these systems in a regional anatomical context. Laboratory sessions entail examination of plastic models, exercises in living anatomy and computer "dissection." Instructor permission required to repeat ANP 300. This course has been designated as a High Demand/Controlled Access (HD/CA) course. Students registering for HD/CA courses for the first time will have priority to do so.

Prerequisite: ANP 101 or ANP 120 or one BIO course

DEC:     E
SBC:     STEM+

4 credits

ANP 304: Ecology: Linking People and Nature (with emphasis on the Turkana Basin)

With the world's longest sequence of datable deposits containing fossils of our ancestors, eastern Africa is the ideal place to examine humans' changing relations with our environment. This course familiarizes students with diverse ecological settings in the region today through tours and field exercises in highland forests, low-altitude grasslands, and lacustrine and riparian settings. Students learn various methods for paleoenvironmental reconstruction, and practice integrating different kinds of paleoenvironmental evidence in the field and laboratory facilities at TBI-Turkwel, Kenya. Examining modern vegetation and fauna in central and northwest Kenya shows students how human actions can degrade or conserve environments and resouces in eastern Africa today.

Prerequisite: Permission of the instructor/Study Abroad office

DEC:     E
SBC:     SNW Partially fulfills: TECH

3 credits

ANP 305: Earth & Life Through Time: Vertebrate Paleontology & Paleoecology (emphasis on Turkana Basin)

Vertebrate fossils are important sources of information about the appearance, evolution, and extinction of major organisms. As such, they provide a valuable window into changes in climate and selection pressures, and organisms' diverse adaptive responses to these changes. They are also significant in placing hominid discoveries within a relative local chronology, and helping reconstruct environments associated with hominid finds. This course acquaints students with methods of vertebrate paleontology employed in different chronological contexts of the Turkana Basin, used to solve diverse theoretical questions.

Prerequisite: Permission of the instructor/Study Abroad office

DEC:     E
SBC:     SNW Partially fulfills: TECH

3 credits

ANP 306: Human Evolution (and evidence from the Turkana Basin)

The Turkana Basin is home to many paleoanthropological discoveries that fundamentally reshaped ideas about human evolution. Richard, Maeve, and Louise Leakey will share perspectives on eight of these finds, including Nariokotome ("Turkana boy") and KNM-WT1700 (the "Black Skull"). Lectures and readings for each discovery will cover: 1) the research questions and strategies that led to the find; 2) the kind of analyses that have yielded the most important interpretive conclusions about the find; 3) how this discovery reshaped views of the human past; and 4) what new directions it catalyzed in human evolution research. Class activities consist of lectures by the Leakeys, laboratory exercises (reconstructions, measurements) using casts of the 5 kinds, and field trips to discovery locations.

Prerequisite: Permission of the instructor/Study Abroad office

DEC:     H
SBC:     STEM+ Partially fulfills: ESI

3 credits

ANP 307: Comparing Ecosystems in Madagascar

The major goal of this course is to introduce the biodiversity and diversity of ecosystems on the island of Madagascar. In addition to exploring the different habitats within Ranomafana National Park, we will embark on a ten-day trip across Madagascar.

Prerequisite: Permission of instructor/Study Abroad office

DEC:     E
SBC:     SNW

3 credits

ANP 308: Paleoanthropological Field Methods in the Turkana Basin

This course is one of three that constitutes the Turkana Basin Institute Summer Field School, an opportunity to participate in all aspects of a paleoanthropological research project, focusing on practical aspects of vertebrate paleontology, geology, zooarchaeology and taphonomy. Students are trained in field reconnaissance, fossil survey, plotting, preservation, and collection, analysis and interpretation. Hands-on examination of fossils from Plio-Pleistocene or Holocene sites around Lake Turkana will teach students how human ancestors and other animals adapted to the environments around them. Experts from TBI, Stony Brook, and other institutions provide instruction in lectures, labs, and via fieldwork within the context of on-going projects.

Prerequisite: Permission of instructor/Study Abroad office

SBC:     STEM+ Partially fulfills: EXP+, TECH

3 credits

ANP 310: Environments, Ecosystems and Evolution: Evidence from the Turkana Basin

An introduction to the ways scientists use the fossil and archaeological records to learn about past changes in Earth's climates and environments, and how humanity's ancestors responded to those changes physiologically and technologically. Interdisciplinary lectures will show evidence from the Turkana Basin's paleoenvironmental, fossil and archaeological records of the dynamic interactions between the climate, environment, local food webs, and ancient human populations. This background will prepare students for training in paleoanthropological and archaeological field methods.

Prerequisite: Permission of the instructor/Study Abroad office

DEC:     E
SBC:     GLO, SNW Partially fulfills: EXP+, TECH

3 credits

ANP 315: Climate Change and Human Evolution

Earth's climate has always been in a state of flux. Since human ancestors emerged on the landscape approximately 7 million years ago, the planet has faced drastic swings between moist and dry periods, as well as glacial freezes and thaws. It is clear that at least some of our ancestors were able to adapt and survive these climate shifts. Was the changing environment also responsible for shaping the evolutionary innovations that have come to define our species? This course will explore the relationship between climate, environment, and human evolution.

Prerequisite: ANP 120 or ANT 215 or BIO 201

SBC:     STEM+

3 credits

ANP 321: Primate Evolution

The evolution of the order Primates from its origins to the appearance of the human family. Primate origins; the first primates of modern aspect; origins and adaptive radiations of monkeys; appearance and adaptations of apes and humans. Relevant topics in geology such as geochronology, paleogeography, taphonomy, and paleoecology.

Prerequisite: ANP 120

SBC:     STEM+

3 credits

ANP 326: Lemurs of Madagascar

The course explores the biology, ecology, social behavior, and conservation of Madagascar's lemurs. We will discuss case studies based on current field and captive research, in this way highlighting important principles in behavior and ecology. Critical thinking on current topics in general primate behavior will be emphasized through various discussion formats. The evolutionary continuum between humans and other primates will be explored. Throughout the course, we will pay attention to conservation threats that menace the well-being of lemur today.

Prerequisite: Permission of instructor/Study Abroad office

SBC:     STEM+

3 credits

ANP 350: Methods in Studying Primates

Introduction to the concepts and practical skills needed to conduct scientific work, particularly in the study of primates, including how to collect and analyze data focusing on habitat description, primate densities, use of space, and social interactions. Topics include design and presentation of research; ecological field methods; behavioral observations and other techniques. Students are required to plan a small research study and to present their proposal in class. Some computer work outside class required.

Prerequisite: Permission of instructor/Study Abroad office

3 credits

ANP 351: Biodiversity Assessment Methods for Tropical Field Research

Offered in Madagascar, this intense experiential learning course is geared towards undergraduate students interested in field research in the tropics. Students will explore both the practical aspects of field biological research and conceptual topics related to tropical biodiversity. Emphasis will be learning to measure the species diversity, and population density of the species of plants, birds, mammals, insects, amphibians and reptiles of Madagascar. Emphasis will be placed on critical thinking with regards to the origins of tropical biodiversity. Practical, hands on field techniques and methods will be conducted including safety, mapping, line transect surveys, mist netting, behavioral observations and collecting and preserving samples, photography, and measurement of environmental variables such climate.

Prerequisite: appropriate interest in subject matter

3 credits

ANP 360: Primate Conservation

Review of endangered species of primates and case histories of conservation programs in Asia, Africa, South America, and Madagascar, highlighting different problems and solutions.

Advisory Prerequisite: ANP 120 or BIO 201 and BIO 204

DEC:     H
SBC:     STAS

3 credits

ANP 387: Independent Biodiversity Research Project in Madagascar

Allows students to apply the knowledge and research methods they have acquired in preceding courses during the study abroad experience (including: ANP 351 Biodiversity in Field Methods; ANP 307 Comparing Ecosystems in Madagascar; and ANP 326 Lemurs of Madagascar (3 Credits Each)). Students will design their own research project, and carry it through from hypothesis generating, data collection, statistical analyses and written and oral presentation of results. This project will allow students to showcase both their interests and academic skillsets. This course includes research on biodiversity. Some subjects could include impacts of human disturbance on biodiversity, species and abundance of frogs in large streams vs small streams, infant development and play in lemur groups with single infant vs lemur groups with two or three infants.

Prerequisite: appropriate interest in subject matter and background in ecology and conservation

3 credits

ANP 391: Topics in Biological Anthropology

Discussion of a topic of current interest in physical anthropology. May be repeated as the topic changes.

Prerequisite: ANP 120

Advisory prerequisite: One other ANP course

3 credits

ANP 399: Advanced Field Research in the Turkana Basin

Intended to follow the Turkana Basin Institute (TBI) Field School in NW Kenya. It should facilitate TBI field school alumni participation in ongoing field projects directed by senior researchers within the Turkana Basin. Upper-division Stony Brook undergraduates who demonstrate readiness may undertake a junior role within a larger project focusing on archaeology or human ecology (ANT 399) or paleoanthropology or vertebrate paleontology (ANP 399). The nature of ANT/ANP 399 offerings each semester will depend on which senior scholars are conducting field research and whether their projects are suitable for undergraduate involvement. They may include the opportunity to join a paleoanthropological survey of ancient landscapes for vertebrate remains (ANP 399), or to join an archaeological excavation of a 4000-year-old habitation site (ANT 399). Credit for each offering is determined for by the TBI faculty and is consistent for all registrants.

Prerequisite: Permission of the instructor. One or more of the following courses: ANP 305, ANP 306, ANT 304, ANT 307, GEO 303

3-12 credits

ANP 401: Pastoralism under pressure: Savannas, Societies, and Sustainability in East Africa

An in-depth examination of the linkages and feedbacks that connect water to vegetation production, animal movement, and the economy and health of traditionally pastoralist societies in East Africa. Integrating the fields of ecology, hydrology, biological and cultural anthropology, and sustainability studies, this course challenges students to develop innovative approaches to promote resilience and sustainability in savanna ecosystems and societies. Student-driven discussion and independent research are emphasized.

Prerequisite: one ANT/ANP/EBH/BIO course at the 300-level or higher with grade of C or better

SBC:     ESI, STAS

3 credits

ANP 403: Seminar in Biological Anthropology

Research and discussion of selected topics in physical anthropology. May be repeated as the topic changes.

Prerequisite: Permission of instructor

3 credits

ANP 404: Human Osteology

A detailed study of the anatomy of the human skeleton with special emphasis on the interpretation of skeletal remains from archaeological contexts. Consideration is given to the growth, structure, and function of bones, and to forensic aspects such as the determination of age, sex, stature, and pathology from skeletal remains. Students conduct a research project on a human skeleton.

Prerequisites: ANP 300; permission of instructor

SBC:     ESI, STEM+

3 credits

ANP 405: Human Evolution in the Headlines

Exploration of how anthropologists reconstruct the biology and behavior of extinct human species. The class addresses how anthropologists estimate body size in individual fossils, establish the evolutionary relationships among species, and determine what different species ate when they were alive, among other topics. Topics are approached by reading scientific articles and reading popular accounts of anthropological discoveries and research. Students are encouraged to actively participate in class through presentations and discussion of readings. Emphasis is on developing critical thinking and writing skills. The goals of this class are multifaceted and include learning modern techniques for reconstructing the behavior, systematics, and biology of extinct humans, and discerning between facts, analysis, and interpretation in science. Note: students who have taken ANP 403 with this topic may not take ANP 405 for credit.

Prerequisite: ANP 120 or ANP 201

3 credits

ANP 406: Pseudoscience and Anthropology

Course will examine some common misconceptions, as well as deliberate frauds, related to the field of Anthropology. Bigfoot, Atlantis, and ancient astronauts remain common subjects in mainstream media, but what do we, and what can we, really know about such subjects? In this course we will assemble a basic toolkit for skeptical inquiry, and apply it to several examples of anthropological pseudoscience. Dissecting these cases leads to an investigation of how we can distinguish truth from falsehood, and knowable facts from unknowable conjectures. Lastly, we will try to understand the persistence of pseudoscience and other forms of nonsense in our culture, as these clearly thrive despite their lack of grounding in reality.

Prerequisite: ANT 104, ANP 120, and either ANP 201 or ANP 220

DEC:     H
SBC:     STAS

3 credits

ANP 407: Building Bones: Bone Development and Evolution

An overview of the evolution, development, and growth of the skeleton, with a focus on mammals, primates, and humans. Students will review fundamental bone biology concepts, then read and discuss classic and current research on the evolution of bone development and the developmental basis for specific evolutionary changes in bone morphology. While much bone biology research has been completed in animal models, this course specifically builds a foundation for students to understand and critique current studies on the evolution and development of primate and human skeletal morphology.

Prerequisite: ANP 120 or BIO 201 or BIO 202

SBC:     SPK, STEM+

3 credits

ANP 410: Comparative Primate Anatomy

In-depth examination of the relationship between primate anatomical form and function, with an emphasis on adaptations to locomotion and diet. Topics covered by lecture and in-class assignments include primate musculoskeletal anatomy, natural selection and adaptation, methods in functional morphology, primate diet and locomotion, and the reconstruction of behaviors in extinct primates. Students will write a research proposal to investigate an area of study in primate functional morphology.

Prerequisite: ANP 120

Pre- or corequisite: ANP 300

SBC:     ESI, STEM+

4 credits

ANP 444: Experiential Learning

This course is designed for students who engage in a substantial, structured experiential learning activity in conjunction with another class. Experiential learning occurs when knowledge acquired through formal learning and past experience are applied to a "real-world" setting or problem to create new knowledge through a process of reflection, critical analysis, feedback and synthesis. Beyond-the-classroom experiences that support experiential learning may include: service learning, mentored research, field work, or an internship.

Prerequisite: WRT 102 or equivalent; permission of the instructor and approval of the EXP+ contract (http://sb.cc.stonybrook.edu/bulletin/current/policiesandregulations/degree_requirements/EXPplus.php)

SBC:     EXP+

0 credit, S/U grading

ANP 447: Readings in Biological Anthropology

Individual advanced readings on selected topics in physical anthropology. May be repeated up to a limit of 6 credits.

Prerequisite: Permission of instructor

3 credits

ANP 475: Undergraduate Teaching Practicum I

Work with a faculty member as an assistant in one of the faculty member's regularly scheduled classes. The student is required to attend all the classes, do all the regularly assigned work, and meet with the faculty member at regularly scheduled times to discuss the intellectual and pedagogical matters relating to the course.

Prerequisite: Permission of the instructor

SBC:     EXP+

3 credits, S/U grading

ANP 476: Undergraduate Teaching Practicum II

Work with a faculty member as an assistant in one of the faculty member's regularly scheduled classes. Students assume greater responsibility in such areas as leading discussions and analyzing results of tests that have already been graded. The course in which the student is permitted to work as a teaching assistant must be different from the course in which he or she previously served. Not for major or minor credit.

Prerequisite: Permission of the instructor

SBC:     EXP+

3 credits, S/U grading

ANP 487: Independent Research in Biological Anthropology

Independent research projects carried out by upper-division students. The student must propose the research project, carry it out, analyze the data, and submit the results in a written form acceptable to the sponsor. May be repeated up to a limit of six credits.

Prerequisite: Permission of the instructor

SBC:     EXP+

0-6 credits

ANP 488: Internship in Biological Anthropology

Students work under the supervision of a faculty member or approved local, state, and national public and private agencies and organizations to obtain a career-related experience in biological anthropology. Enrollment requires program approval of an EXP+ contract. May be repeated to a limit of 12 credits.

Prerequisite: Permission of the instructor

SBC:     EXP+

0-6 credits, S/U grading

ANP 495: Senior Honors Project in Anthropology

First course of a two-semester project for anthropology majors who are candidates for the degree with honors. Arranged in consultation with the department through the director of undergraduate studies, the project involves independent readings or research and the writing of a paper under the close supervision of an appropriate faculty member on a suitable topic selected by the student. Students enrolled in ANP 495 are obliged to complete ANP 496 the following semester. Students receive only one grade upon completion of the sequence ANP 495-496.

Prerequisite: Permission of the instructor

3 credits

ANP 496: Senior Honors Project in Anthropology

Second course of a two-semester project for anthropology majors who are candidates for the degree with honors. Arranged in consultation with the department through the director of undergraduate studies, the project involves independent readings or research and the writing of a paper under the close supervision of an appropriate faculty member on a suitable topic selected by the student. Students receive only one grade upon completion of the sequence ANP 495-496.

Prerequisite: ANP 495

SBC:     EXP+

3 credits