Anthropology (Advanced Major)

The Anthropology (Advanced Major) program at the University of Manitoba offers students a comprehensive and in-depth exploration of human societies, cultures, and biological diversity. Designed for students who wish to deepen their understanding of the human experience, this program combines rigorous coursework with opportunities for research, fieldwork, and critical analysis. Students will engage with a diverse range of topics, including archaeological methods, cultural anthropology, biological anthropology, and linguistic studies, gaining a well-rounded perspective on human life across different times and places.

Throughout the program, students will develop key skills such as ethnographic research, data collection and analysis, critical thinking, and academic writing. They are encouraged to explore contemporary issues through an anthropological lens, including globalization, cultural change, social justice, and environmental sustainability. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical applications, preparing graduates for careers in research, education, cultural resource management, policy development, and community engagement.

In addition to coursework, students may participate in field schools, internships, and research projects, gaining valuable hands-on experience in various anthropological methods. The program also fosters a strong interdisciplinary approach, enabling students to collaborate across social sciences and natural sciences disciplines. With access to world-class faculty members and excellent research facilities, students will be supported throughout their academic journey.

Graduates of the Anthropology (Advanced Major) program will possess a deep understanding of human diversity and the factors that shape it, along with the analytical tools necessary to contribute meaningfully to academic, governmental, and non-governmental sectors. Whether pursuing further graduate studies or entering the workforce, students will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to make a positive impact in a globalized world. This program aims to nurture culturally aware, analytical, and ethical professionals committed to advancing our understanding of humanity.

The Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology (Advanced Major) at the University of Manitoba offers students a comprehensive and interdisciplinary exploration of human origins, cultures, societies, and behaviors. This program is designed to provide a thorough understanding of both the biological and cultural aspects of humanity through coursework, research, and fieldwork opportunities. Students will examine the diversity of human societies, past and present, and analyze how biological, archaeological, linguistic, and cultural data contribute to our understanding of human evolution and social development.

Throughout the program, students engage with a variety of subfields within anthropology, including cultural anthropology, archaeological anthropology, biological anthropology, and linguistic anthropology. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and ethnographic research methods, enabling students to interpret human behavior and societal structures across different contexts. Students are encouraged to participate in immersive learning experiences, such as archaeological digs, ethnographic fieldwork, and internships, to enhance their practical skills and employment readiness.

The program aims to prepare graduates for careers in fields such as research, academia, heritage management, cultural resource management, museum work, international development, and public policy. Additionally, students acquire strong communication, research, and analytical skills that are highly valued in various professional settings. Students are also given opportunities to undertake independent research projects under the guidance of experienced faculty members, fostering academic growth and scholarly contribution to the field of anthropology.

By combining rigorous coursework with experiential learning, the Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology (Advanced Major) at the University of Manitoba develops well-rounded graduates equipped with a deep understanding of human diversity and social complexity. The program emphasizes critical inquiry and prepares students for advanced study or careers that require an understanding of societal dynamics, cultural diversity, and human biological evolution.

Program requirements for the Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Anthropology (Advanced Major) at the University of Manitoba include the completion of a minimum of 60 credit hours, with a specified core curriculum that emphasizes foundational knowledge in biological, cultural, and archaeological anthropology. Students are required to complete introductory courses such as ANTH 1000 (Introduction to Anthropology) and ANTH 1200 (Cultural Anthropology), which serve as prerequisites for advanced coursework. In addition, students must complete at least 21 credit hours of advanced courses, including methods and theory courses like ANTH 3010 (Research Methods in Anthropology) and ANTH 3020 (Anthropological Theory). To achieve honours standing, students must maintain a minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 in all anthropology courses. The program also mandates the completion of an honours thesis or research project, which involves original research under supervision, and typically requires at least 6 credit hours of independent study (e.g., ANTH 4900). Elective courses may be chosen from among the department’s offerings in archaeology, cultural anthropology, biological anthropology, and applied anthropology, allowing students to tailor their program to their interests. Additionally, students are encouraged to participate in internships or fieldwork opportunities, which are integral for gaining practical experience. The program emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and ethical considerations in anthropological research, preparing graduates for careers in academia, cultural resource management, public policy, or further graduate study. Overall, the program's design ensures a comprehensive understanding of anthropological perspectives and methodologies, with a curriculum that balances theoretical foundations, empirical research, and applied practice.

The University of Manitoba offers various financing options for students enrolled in the Anthropology (Advanced Major) program to support their academic pursuits. Undergraduate students pursuing anthropology may qualify for a range of financial aid opportunities, including government-sponsored loans, bursaries, scholarships, and internal university awards. Government student loans and grants are available through federal and provincial programs, such as the Canada Student Loans Program and the Manitoba Student Aid program, which assist students with the costs of tuition, living expenses, and other education-related expenses. Additionally, the university provides merit-based and need-based scholarships specifically for students enrolled in anthropology and related disciplines, which can significantly offset tuition fees and related costs. Students are encouraged to explore external scholarships and bursaries offered by community organizations, professional associations, and private foundations that support students in the social sciences and anthropology fields.

Work-study programs are also available, allowing students to work part-time on or off-campus to gain practical experience while earning additional income. The university’s financial services office offers guidance and resources on budgeting, financial planning, and applying for various funding opportunities. International students enrolled in the Anthropology (Advanced Major) program may have access to specific scholarship programs for international students, as well as alternative funding options through exchanges and partnership programs with overseas universities. It is essential for students to consult the university’s official financial aid webpage and contact the financial aid office directly for comprehensive and updated information about available funding sources, application procedures, deadlines, and eligibility criteria. Overall, students enrolled in this program are encouraged to proactively seek financial support opportunities early in their studies to effectively plan and manage their educational expenses throughout their academic journey at the University of Manitoba.

The Anthropology (Advanced Major) program at the University of Manitoba offers students a comprehensive and in-depth study of human societies, cultures, and biological aspects. Designed for students who seek a rigorous academic experience, this program emphasizes advanced coursework, research opportunities, and practical fieldwork. Students in the program explore a variety of subfields within anthropology, including cultural anthropology, archaeology, biological anthropology, and linguistic anthropology, allowing for a well-rounded understanding of human diversity and evolution. The curriculum is structured to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and research competencies, preparing graduates for careers in academia, research, public policy, museum curation, or international development. Throughout the program, students engage with faculty who are recognized experts in their fields and participate in research projects that often include field schools and community-based studies. In addition to coursework, students are encouraged to undertake a thesis or research project that demonstrates their ability to conduct independent research, analyze complex data, and contribute new knowledge to the field. The program promotes an interdisciplinary approach, integrating perspectives from anthropology, history, biology, and social sciences, to address contemporary issues such as globalization, ethnicity, human rights, and environmental change. Students benefit from the university’s extensive resources, including specialized laboratories, archaeological sites, and libraries. Graduates of the Advanced Major in Anthropology are equipped with a broad skill set applicable in multiple sectors, including government agencies, NGOs, private companies, and academic institutions. The program also prepares students for further graduate studies in anthropology or related disciplines, providing a solid foundation for academic and professional advancement in understanding human societies from multiple perspectives.