The Anthropology Department of Lucknow University has introduced several new papers, including forensic anthropology, digital anthropology, artificial intelligence in anthropology, and healthcare and anthropotherapy, with the aim of enhancing students' job prospects across various fields. These courses will be offered from the 2026-27 academic session.
Forensic Anthropology as a Minor Paper
Forensic anthropology has been introduced as a minor paper in both BA and BSc programs. This specialized field applies anthropological knowledge to legal and criminal investigations. According to Prof. Udai Pratap Singh, head of the department, a graduate in this field can assist in disaster response by identifying individuals or animals through skeletal remains.
Digital Anthropology for UG Students
Undergraduate students will also study digital anthropology, which examines how digital technologies influence human behavior, culture, relationships, and society. Prof. Singh explained that a digital anthropologist can analyze group chats on messaging apps, social media interactions, online study groups, and virtual communities formed around shared interests to assess the impact of new technologies on human beings.
AI in Anthropology at Postgraduate Level
At the postgraduate level, the department has introduced artificial intelligence in anthropology as part of the syllabus. AI can facilitate the practice of forensic and biological anthropology on a large scale in less time. For instance, at an excavation site, AI can determine the origins of skeletal remains, ancestry, age, and cause of death, among other things.
Healthcare and Anthropotherapy
The department has also introduced healthcare and anthropotherapy at the PG level. This integrative healing system combines traditional, ethnic, and folk medicine with conventional Western medicine to provide holistic, patient-focused care, said Prof. Singh.
