Our Anthropology Programs

BA Program

Anthropology is the comprehensive study of human beings, past and present, focusing on culture, human evolution, social organization, environmental adaptation, and language development. Our BA Anthropology programs cover sociocultural anthropology (contemporary cultures), archaeology (human past through objects and environments), and biological anthropology (humans as biological organisms). Courses include medical anthropology, environmental archaeology, applied anthropology, zooarchaeology, bioarchaeology, and environmental anthropology. We have long-term partnerships with Indigenous communities in British Columbia, Alberta, and Saskatchewan, plus NGOs in Saskatoon, along with international collaborations. The programs emphasize community-based research and learning, reconciliation, and a broad disciplinary foundation. Students seeking a social science orientation and course flexibility should choose a BA Anthropology degree.

BSc Program

Anthropology seeks to understand the human experience across time and space, asking, “What does it mean to be human?” It connects studies of hominin ancestors, living primates, human populations and societal development through time, human – environment interaction, and contemporary cultures. Our BSc programs cover archaeology (human past through objects and environments) and biological anthropology (humans as biological organisms), with inclusion of critical sociocultural anthropology courses, all within an engaged scholar model. BSc courses include international but emphasize North American and Siberian archaeology, zooarchaeology, and human osteology/bioarchaeology,  focusing on the Northern Plains, Boreal Forest, and Coastal regions of western Canada. The BSc degrees emphasize natural science methodologies and a Two-Eyed Seeing perspective in analyzing anthropological materials. Students preferring such an orientation should choose a BSc degree.

Resources

Academic Information

Department Resources

Department Library - The Urve Linnamae Library is located on the main floor of the Archaeology Building. It is a small collection, but contains resources that are specifically useful for undergrads, grad students, and faculty within the department. The library also houses some unique artifact displays.

Student Lounge - The Anthropology student lounge is on the third floor of the Archaeology building. It is open to all Anthropology students for studying and relaxing.

Student Involvement

ASA - The Anthropology Students Association is a great way to meet other Anthropology students and be involved in department events throughout the year. ASA also hosts a bi-annual undergraduate conference.

Saskatoon Archaeological Society - is a chapter of the provincial organization. The group holds monthly meetings in the department and encourages undergraduate students to attend and participate in local events. An annual APALA membership also serves as an annual membership to the Saskatoon society. Check around the department for dates of upcoming events.

Saskatchewan Archaeological Society (SAS) - is the provincial archaeological organization. The SAS is devoted to education and conservation of archaeology in the province. The organization hosts an annual conference, plans various tours throughout the year, and offers many opportunities for volunteers, both avocational and professional, to take part in excavations. The SAS publishes the Saskatchewan Archaeology Quarterly and they have funding opportunities for students.

Other Useful Resources

Course Offerings

Programs and Course Requirements

All Anthropology Majors students are strongly encouraged to have yearly program check advising with a faculty member. Check with the department office for more information about making an appointment.