Housed at the largest university in the US, the ASU Museum of Anthropology serves as an Ideas Lab for the School of Human Evolution and Social Change—a place to explore the production of knowledge via innovative museum theories, methods and technologies. A wide range of changing exhibits features issues and ideas related to culture and society, archaeology and human origins, including an annual Day of the Dead exhibit and festival. Exhibits reflect the research interests of faculty and students and support the museum’s mission to encourage appreciation for different forms of cultural adaptation to a complex and dynamic world. Museum anthropology students work in this exploratory interdisciplinary space, curating exhibitions and developing programming as part of their course of study. Guided tours for students and the general public are available by appointment; periodic lectures, symposia and special events.

The museum aims to share with audiences the many ways in which cultural expression finds form, as well as to highlight creative and adaptive strategies pursued by human communities in different places and in different times. It is our belief that anthropology can provide invaluable insights into the ways in which people on the ground both experience and respond to change—lessons that are necessary in an increasingly global and complex world.

 
Read about our Research, Teaching and Public Service Mission