We have a traditional focus on the circumpolar North. Recent departmental growth has resulted in a new thematic focus on language, culture, and evolution.

The graduate program offers students the opportunity to concentrate study in one of the four sub-fields, to gain research experience and training in the field and in the laboratory, and emphasizes empirical and applied studies.

Field schools provide students with instruction and hands-on experience in methods of field research. The department maintains a strong orientation to fieldwork and UAF Anthropology faculty and students are involved in many field-based research programs.