The honors thesis offers motivated anthropology majors an opportunity to develop and pursue independent research on a topic of their own interest that may be drawn from any sub-field within the discipline. Students must spend at least two semesters researching, reading about, and writing a thesis focused on an anthropologically relevant topic. Research must include both fieldwork (ethnographic, archaeological, physical anthropological, or linguistic) and a literature review.

Only declared anthropology majors meeting the following criteria can begin work on an anthropology honors thesis: Members of Lambda Alpha, the national anthropology honor society, are automatically eligible. Those who have obtained a GPA of 3.33 in anthropology and a 3.0 overall by the end of their junior year are also eligible. Others who are close to meeting these eligibility requirements and who can demonstrate focus, drive, and a sincere desire to work on an honors thesis can petition the department by the end of their junior year (consult with your advisor).