Anthropology

The Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology at Simon Fraser University offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary exploration of human societies, cultures, and biological diversity across time and space. This program prepares students to understand the complex tapestry of human life through a combination of sociocultural, biological, archaeological, and linguistic perspectives. Students enrolled in this program will engage with core theories and methods in anthropology, gaining critical insights into issues such as cultural identity, globalization, human evolution, prehistoric and historic societies, and contemporary social challenges. The curriculum emphasizes experiential learning, encouraging students to participate in fieldwork, research projects, and community engagement activities that deepen their understanding of anthropological concepts. Through a flexible program structure, students can tailor their studies to align with personal interests and career goals, choosing from a broad array of courses across different anthropological disciplines. The program also fosters critical thinking, analytical skills, and cross-cultural awareness—skills highly valued in diverse professional fields including international development, government, non-profit organizations, cultural resource management, and academia. SFU's vibrant campus environment, coupled with opportunities for collaboration and networking, enriches the educational experience. Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology will be well-equipped to analyze and interpret human behavior and social phenomena, making meaningful contributions to society through research, policy development, education, or further academic pursuits.

The Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology at Simon Fraser University offers students a comprehensive and interdisciplinary exploration of human societies, cultures, and biological origins. This program is designed to provide a deep understanding of the diversity of human experiences across time and space, combining experiential learning with rigorous academic coursework. Students will examine various facets of anthropology, including cultural practices, social structures, language, archaeology, and biological evolution. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, research methods, and the analysis of ethnographic and archaeological data, preparing graduates for careers in research, education, community development, and various applied fields.

Throughout the program, students have the opportunity to engage with both theoretical concepts and practical applications. The coursework covers key areas such as Cultural Anthropology, Archaeology, Biological Anthropology, and Linguistic Anthropology. Special topics, including globalization, migration, indigeneity, and human rights, are incorporated into the curriculum to reflect contemporary issues. Students can also participate in fieldwork, gaining hands-on experience through archaeological digs or ethnographic studies, which enhances their research skills and cultural awareness.

In addition to coursework, the program encourages active participation in seminars, workshops, and internships that foster professional development. Students are supported by faculty members who are experts in their respective fields, offering mentorship and opportunities for collaborative research. The program also promotes interdisciplinary approaches, encouraging students to draw connections between anthropology and other social sciences, humanities, and natural sciences.

Graduates of the Anthropology program at SFU are well-equipped to pursue advanced studies or careers in areas such as social work, international development, museum curation, cultural resource management, and public policy. The program’s strong emphasis on research, communication, and cultural sensitivity ensures that graduates are prepared to contribute meaningfully to understanding and solving complex societal issues. Overall, the Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology at Simon Fraser University provides a solid foundation in the study of humanity, fostering analytical skills and cultural competence essential for a diverse and interconnected world.

The Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology at Simon Fraser University requires students to complete a total of 40 units for graduation. This program offers a comprehensive introduction to the diverse subfields of anthropology, including cultural anthropology, archaeology, biological anthropology, and linguistic anthropology, providing students with a well-rounded understanding of human societies, behaviors, and biological origins. Students are expected to fulfill foundational courses such as ANTH 102 (Introduction to Anthropology), which covers basic principles and methodologies, as well as more specialized coursework in areas like ethnography, prehistoric archaeology, and human evolution. Elective courses allow students to explore various cultural regions, anthropological theories, and research techniques, often including fieldwork components that enhance practical skills. The program emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and cultural awareness, preparing graduates for careers in research, education, public policy, or further academic study. In addition to coursework, students may be encouraged to participate in research projects or internships to gain hands-on experience. The degree also requires students to demonstrate proficiency in anthropological methods and to engage with contemporary issues through their coursework. To graduate, students must maintain satisfactory academic performance across all courses, complete designated core courses, and fulfill credit requirements within the designated time frame. Overall, the program aims to develop knowledgeable and culturally sensitive individuals equipped with skills applicable in various sectors such as government agencies, non-profit organizations, and academic institutions, fostering an understanding of human diversity and cultural development throughout history and in contemporary contexts.

The Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology at Simon Fraser University offers a comprehensive financial aid and scholarship program to support students throughout their studies. Prospective and current students are encouraged to explore the various funding opportunities available to help offset tuition fees and related educational costs. The university provides entrance scholarships based on academic achievement, which are awarded automatically upon admission, reducing the financial burden for high-achieving students. Additionally, there are merit-based scholarships specific to anthropology students that recognize excellence in coursework and research potential. Students are also encouraged to apply for need-based financial aid, which is available through the university’s Financial Aid and Scholarships Office. This office administers government student loan programs, including federal and provincial loan options, as well as bursaries and emergency grants for students experiencing unforeseen financial hardship.

Part-time work opportunities are also available both on and off-campus, enabling students to gain practical experience while earning supplementary income. The university's co-op programs may include internships or work placements that combine academic coursework with practical employment, providing valuable industry connections and financial support. Furthermore, some students may qualify for external scholarships and grants offered by private organizations, community groups, or industry partners related to anthropology and social sciences. Scholarship funds are typically awarded based on criteria such as academic performance, leadership qualities, community involvement, and research interests.

It’s important for students to maintain good academic standing and stay informed about application deadlines for various financial aid programs. The university also provides financial planning workshops and counseling services to help students budget and plan for their educational expenses effectively. Students are advised to review the specific eligibility criteria for each funding source and submit all required documents on time. Overall, Simon Fraser University is dedicated to making anthropology education accessible by offering a diverse array of financing options, ensuring students from different financial backgrounds can pursue their academic and career objectives in anthropology.

The Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology at Simon Fraser University offers students a comprehensive overview of human behavior, societies, and cultures from a global perspective. The program emphasizes both archaeological and socio-cultural anthropology, providing a balanced understanding of human development, cultural diversity, and social structures. Students have the opportunity to explore various subfields, including biological anthropology, linguistic anthropology, and archaeological methods, which prepare them for diverse careers in research, education, public policy, heritage management, and community development.

The curriculum is designed to develop critical thinking, research skills, and cultural awareness. Courses cover topics such as human evolution, ethnography, kinship systems, indigenous studies, and contemporary social issues. Students may also engage in fieldwork and hands-on research, often in collaboration with local communities or international projects, to gain practical experience. The program encourages interdisciplinary approaches, integrating insights from biology, history, geography, and cultural studies to enrich understanding of complex human phenomena.

Affiliated faculty members are active researchers, and students benefit from active mentorship and opportunities to participate in ongoing research projects. The program also offers options for specialization, allowing students to tailor their studies towards areas of personal interest or career goals. Upon graduation, students are well-equipped for graduate studies or employment in fields such as cultural resource management, museums, non-profit organizations, government agencies, and academic research.

The university's strong focus on experiential learning and community engagement supports students in applying theoretical knowledge to real-world challenges. The program's location in Vancouver, a culturally diverse city, provides unique opportunities for ethnographic research and community involvement. Additionally, students may access a wide range of resources, including field schools, internships, and seminars, to enhance their learning experience.

Overall, the Anthropology BA at Simon Fraser University aims to produce graduates who are culturally sensitive, analytical, and capable of addressing contemporary issues through an anthropological lens. The program fosters a global perspective while emphasizing local relevance, preparing students to become informed global citizens and professionals in various sectors related to human diversity and social justice.