Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology Degree Program Guide

Anthropology degree program guide header

Anthropology contributes to a multidisciplinary understanding of the human condition through study of human biological, cultural, and linguistic variation. Because of its breadth, anthropology has been described as the "most humanistic of the sciences and the most scientific of the humanities." At the University of Alberta, archaeologists and biological anthropologists explore the deep history of human diversity through the archaeological record. Cultural and linguistic anthropologists combine philosophical questions with in-depth ethnographic research to explore the diversity of contemporary societies.

Anthropology students can expect a broad, holistic approach to the discipline yet allows specialization in one of the sub-areas: archaeology; biological anthropology; social/cultural anthropology; and linguistic anthropology. Explore the complexities of human existence, engage in impactful research, and prepare for a career that makes a difference in understanding and improving our world.

Academic Requirements for Anthropology Majors

General Requirements and Information
  •  A major in Anthropology offers a broad, holistic approach to the discipline yet allows informal specialization in one of the sub-areas: archaeology; biological anthropology; social/cultural anthropology; and linguistic anthropology. Courses at the 400-level offer substantial anthropological method and theory content
Course Requirements
  • ANTHR 206 - Introduction to Archaeology
  • ANTHR 209 - Introduction to Biological Anthropology are both required
  • 3 units from your choice of:
    • ANTHE 207 - Introduction à l’anthropologie sociale et culturelle
    • ANTHR 207 - Introduction to Social and Cultural Anthropology is required
  • 3 units from your choice of:
    • ANTHR 302 - History of Anthropological Theory
    • ANTHR 303 - History of Anthropological Archaeology, or ANTHR 304 - History of Biological Anthropology
  • 6 units from courses at the 400-level

Academic Requirements for Anthropology Minors

Minor Requirements
  • 6 units from your choices of:
    • ANTHR 302 - History of Anthropological Theory
    • ANTHR 303 - History of Anthropological Archaeology
    • ANTHR 304 - History of Biological Anthropology
  • 6 units from ANTHR courses at the 300 or 400-level

The University of Alberta Calendar will always contain the most up-to-date degree requirements for your program, and your requirements are determined by the calendar year you were admitted in.

What kinds of courses can Anthropology students take?

  • ANTHR 110 - Gender, Age, and Culture
  • ANTHR 140 - Anthropology of Death
  • ANTHR 150 - Race and Racism
  • ANTHR 209 - Introduction to Biological Anthropology
  • ANTHR 230 - Anthropology of Science, Technology, and Environment
  • ANTHR 256 - Alberta Archaeology
  • ANTHR 302 - History of Anthropological Theory
  • ANTHR 311 - Archaeology of Indigenous North America
  • ANTHR 324 - Economic Anthropology

What kinds of careers can you pursue with an Anthropology degree?

There are many different fields and career paths that students can pursue with an Anthropology degree. From cultural archeology to public policy, graduates are equipped with strong research, attention to detail and critical thinking skills to name a few, that are assets in today’s job market. Although there is a list of career options below, it is important to understand that careers are not linear. Intentionally engaging in a variety of activities and following your curiosities will open new opportunities that you might not have expected. To learn more about how you can put your Arts degree to work, stop by the HUB Career Centre (8917 HUB Mall) for more information.

  • Field Archaeologist
  • Cultural Resource Manager
  • Educational Consultant
  • Educator (Professor, Secondary or Primary)
  • Museum Curator
  • Archivist and Conservator
  • Global Health Specialist
  • Forensic Anthropologist
  • Sustainability Consultant
  • Researcher and Policy Advisor
  • Cultural Affairs Specialist
  • Human Rights Advocate
  • International Aid Worker
  • Ecotourism Developer
  • +More!

Interested in gaining work experience related to your career goals? If so, apply to Arts Work Experience to gain full-time, PAID, work experience before you graduate!

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