Program Outline

Course Work . Each entering student is required to successfully complete a professional seminar (ANTH 601); a seminar on theories of modernity and postmodernity (ANTH 615); a grant-writing seminar (ANTH 602); a yearlong sequence in the history of anthropological theory (ANTH 506 and 507); and a yearlong practicum in pedagogy (ANTH 650).

In addition, seminars and tutorials can be arranged on any topic relevant to a student's training, and where appropriate, these can be conducted in supervisory consultation with scholars in other disciplines at Rice as well as with adjunct faculty.

Special Papers . During the first three years of study, each student will prepare three substantial papers, each emphasizing an analytical, research, and writing skill appropriate to the field of specialization. The subjects of the papers and their scheduling are major considerations in the ongoing consultations between students and their advisers.

The Research Proposal . Before being advanced to Ph.D. candidacy, a student must prepare a satisfactory proposal for dissertation research. The thought and planning for this proposal are a culmination of two years' training, and its assessment is, therefore, a major emphasis in the program of study.

Doctoral Dissertation . Following approval of the proposal, a dissertation committee will be appointed, which may include others than the student's original advisory committee. Dissertations ordinarily will be based in substantial part upon field research.