Undergraduate Studies

Elizabeth Hannnah

Anthropology’s Subject Matter

Anthropology is a broadly encompassing field focused on the present and past diversity of human life. Anthropologists study the cultural contexts that shape who we are; our long term human histories and relationships; and our connections with our non-human primate relations. As a discipline that transcends conventional academic boundaries between the sciences and the humanities, you’ll find courses that connect with your interests and expand your horizons, along with opportunities to engage in hands-on learning and on-going research in our department. As a student in our courses, you’ll engage in diverse forms of learning—critically engaging with ideas and information, making films, learning forensic techniques, replicating ancient technologies to gain insight into the past, among other possibilities. Thus, you’ll find that anthropology courses offer a wide range of engaging subject matter.

Learning Enriched by Research

Anthropologists at Uvic study how inequalities in the past and present shape access to resources, for example health care and housing. We study how technology and media shape our experience of the world. We study the material remains of past life ways to understand how recent and ancient peoples interacted with one another and with their environments. We’re engaged in studies of the origins of modern human behavior and how humans and non-human primates related to their environments over short and long time spans. We study the factors that affect the spread of infections like HIV, the social and technological practices of grieving, and the effects of a recently constructed hydroelectric dam on the lives of African villagers, among other topics. Learn more about the kinds of research projects our undergraduates are involved on the tab at left.

Skills Based Education

Students often choose Anthropology courses because they find the subject matter fascinating. Less often recognized is that Anthropology courses will help you to develop a variety of skills and perspectives that are valued across a range of careers. Some of those skills are described here.

Get Started

Whether you are a student looking to diversify your course experience or contemplating a major or minor in Anthropology, our department has much to offer you. We invite you to explore our courses and our curriculum and encourage you to participate in our lively academic world by attending colloquia, social events and taking advantage of opportunities to participate in departmental research. Wondering what others have done with a degree in Anthropology? Interested in finding an Anthropologist or learning more about Anthropological Careers...check out the web site, "This is Anthropology".

A world of interesting learning and applicable knowledge awaits you!