Humanities

The Bachelor of Arts in Humanities at Simon Fraser University offers students a comprehensive and interdisciplinary exploration of human culture, thought, and creativity. This program is designed to cultivate critical thinking, effective communication, and cultural awareness by engaging students with a wide range of disciplines within the arts and social sciences. Throughout their studies, students will analyze literary texts, philosophical ideas, historical developments, and artistic expressions from diverse cultures and time periods. The curriculum encourages exploration of major themes such as identity, society, politics, and ethics, fostering a deep understanding of the human experience in its many dimensions. Students will have the opportunity to develop their analytical, research, and writing skills through rigorous coursework, independent projects, and collaborative learning experiences. The program emphasizes fostering an appreciation for cultural diversity and promoting global citizenship, preparing graduates for careers in education, media, public service, arts administration, and other fields that value well-rounded, culturally literate individuals. Flexibility within the program allows students to tailor their academic journey by choosing from a variety of elective courses across disciplines such as history, philosophy, literature, and visual arts. In addition, students are encouraged to participate in internships, study abroad programs, and community engagement activities to enrich their academic experience and gain practical skills. Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts in Humanities will leave with a broad intellectual foundation and the skills necessary to analyze complex issues, think critically, and communicate effectively—qualities that are highly valued in many professional contexts. Whether students aim to pursue further education, enter the workforce, or engage in lifelong learning, the Humanities program at Simon Fraser University provides a dynamic and supportive environment to foster academic growth and personal development.

The Bachelor of Arts in Humanities at Simon Fraser University offers students a comprehensive and interdisciplinary exploration of human culture, thought, and expression. This program is designed to cultivate critical thinking, analytical skills, and cultural awareness through the study of diverse disciplines including philosophy, history, literature, arts, and social sciences. Students are encouraged to examine the complexities of human experiences across different historical periods and cultural contexts, fostering a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of human societies and the enduring questions that shape our world.

The curriculum provides a broad foundation in the arts and humanities, with core courses that develop essential skills such as textual analysis, ethical reasoning, and research methodology. In addition to foundational classes, students have the opportunity to choose specialized electives aligned with their interests, whether in classical studies, contemporary culture, or global issues. The program emphasizes active learning through seminars, discussions, and projects, enabling students to engage critically with primary and secondary sources, articulate well-supported arguments, and develop their own scholarly voice.

Furthermore, the program encourages experiential learning and community engagement, fostering an understanding of practical applications of humanities knowledge in areas like education, arts administration, writing, and cultural policy. Students may also participate in study abroad programs, internships, and collaborative research initiatives to broaden their perspectives and gain real-world experience. With faculty who are leaders in their fields, the Bachelor of Arts in Humanities prepares graduates for diverse career paths, including education, journalism, public service, arts management, and further academic study. Overall, the program aims to nurture insightful, culturally competent individuals equipped to contribute thoughtfully to society and to continue their intellectual growth beyond graduation.

Program Requirements for Bachelor of Arts in Humanities at Simon Fraser University

The Bachelor of Arts in Humanities at Simon Fraser University requires students to complete a total of 120 credits for graduation. The program is designed to provide a broad and interdisciplinary understanding of human culture, including literature, philosophy, history, and art. Students are expected to fulfill foundational courses, specialization courses, and electives to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and cultural awareness.

First-year students typically begin with introductory courses in humanities subjects such as Introduction to Humanities, Critical Thinking, and World Civilizations. These courses lay the groundwork for more advanced study and help students determine their areas of interest. In the second and third years, students are required to choose a concentration or specialization within the humanities, such as Literature, Philosophy, History, or Interdisciplinary Studies. Each specialization has its own set of core courses, which students must complete, usually amounting to around 24-30 credits.

In addition to specialization coursework, students must also complete a suite of breadth and elective courses to ensure a well-rounded liberal arts education. Elective courses may be selected from other departments and disciplines, including social sciences, arts, or languages, allowing students to tailor their academic experience. Language proficiency requirements vary but generally include the successful completion of at least one language course or demonstrating proficiency through testing.

Capstone projects or seminars are typically part of the final year requirements, encouraging students to synthesize their learning through essays, research projects, or presentations. A minimum GPA of 2.0 (C average) is required for graduation, with higher grades often necessary for certain concentrations or honors programs.

Students must also fulfill university-wide requirements, including writing skills assessments, diversity and international perspectives courses, and residency requirements, which mandate students to complete a certain number of credits through SFU. The program emphasizes experiential learning, and students are encouraged to participate in internships, study-abroad programs, and community engagement activities, which may count towards elective credits or specialization options.

Overall, the Bachelor of Arts in Humanities program at Simon Fraser University ensures that students develop comprehensive skills in critical analysis, intercultural understanding, and effective communication, preparing graduates for diverse careers or further academic pursuits.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

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The financing of the Bachelor of Arts in Humanities program at Simon Fraser University is primarily based on a combination of government funding, tuition fees paid by students, and potential financial aid options. As a publicly funded institution, SFU receives substantial support from provincial government sources, which helps subsidize tuition costs and operational expenses associated with delivering the program. Tuition fees are determined annually and vary depending on the student's residency status—domestic or international. Domestic students benefit from lower tuition rates, making the program more accessible, while international students contribute higher fees, supporting the university's financial sustainability.

SFU offers various student financial aid programs, including scholarships, bursaries, and grants, to assist students in managing their educational expenses. Scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership qualities, or specific talents, and they do not require repayment. Bursaries are need-based and aim to support students who demonstrate financial hardship. Additionally, work-study opportunities allow students to earn money while gaining relevant experience, further alleviating financial burdens.

Students are also encouraged to explore external funding options such as government student loans and private scholarships. The Canadian government provides loan programs through organizations like StudentAid BC, which offer low-interest loans and repayment assistance. International students may have access to private sponsorships or external scholarships specific to their home countries. The university's financial aid office provides comprehensive guidance in navigating these options and understanding the application processes.

Flexible payment plans are available to accommodate students' financial situations, allowing them to pay tuition in installments rather than a lump sum. Payment deadlines are established each semester, and late payments may incur penalties. The university also offers financial counseling services to help students budget effectively and plan for educational expenses.

In summary, the financing of the Humanities program at SFU leverages a multifaceted support system comprising government funding, student-paid tuition, scholarships, bursaries, work opportunities, and external funding sources. This structure aims to make quality higher education accessible to a diverse student body, ensuring students can focus on their academic growth while managing financial responsibilities effectively.

The Bachelor of Arts in Humanities at Simon Fraser University is a multidisciplinary program designed to provide students with a broad understanding of human culture, history, and expression. This program emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and intercultural understanding, enabling graduates to engage with complex ideas across various fields such as literature, philosophy, history, and the arts. Students in the Humanities program at SFU have the opportunity to explore diverse topics through courses that incorporate both Western and non-Western perspectives, fostering a comprehensive worldview. The curriculum is structured to allow flexibility, enabling students to personalize their studies according to their interests and career goals. Core components typically include foundational courses in literary studies, philosophy, history, and cultural studies, alongside electives that might cover areas such as global studies or communications. The program also encourages experiential learning through internships, research projects, and study-abroad opportunities, which are designed to complement academic coursework and enhance learners' practical skills. Graduates of the Humanities program at SFU are well-prepared for careers in education, writing, publishing, media, public relations, cultural organizations, and other fields that value critical analysis and effective communication. The university supports students with dedicated academic advisors and resources to facilitate their academic journey and career development. Overall, the Bachelor of Arts in Humanities aims to cultivate informed, culturally aware individuals equipped to contribute thoughtfully to society in various professional settings.