The Department of Anthropology and Middle Eastern Cultures at Mississippi State University focuses on the interdisciplinary study of humans across time and space. It offers students the opportunity to explore anthropology and Middle Eastern studies through a blend of cultural, biological, archaeological, and historical approaches. The department emphasizes practical applications of anthropological theory and methods to address contemporary issues, while promoting research that engages with both local and global challenges.
Faculty research in the Department of Anthropology and Middle Eastern Cultures at Mississippi State University spans several areas, including archaeology, bioarchaeology, and cultural anthropology. Faculty members explore topics like human adaptation, cultures, historical societies, and the application of anthropological methods to contemporary issues. Their work includes studies on the archaeological records of the southeastern United States and the Mediterranean basin, human health and disease, and the cultural dynamics of both local and global communities, often with a focus on the Middle East and its cultures. These research interests aim to solve practical challenges and enhance cross-cultural understanding​.