Honours Bachelor of Arts Anthropology
Studying Anthropology offers a captivating exploration into the complexities of human societies, cultures, and behaviours.
This interdisciplinary field provides a unique lens through which students can analyze and understand the diverse ways that people navigate their social worlds. This program is designed to offer a comprehensive understanding of the past, present, and future of human cultures, providing students with a deep insight into the dynamic interplay of societies around the world.
One of the compelling aspects of studying Anthropology is its relevance to contemporary global issues. Our program provides a broad perspective, students gain a deep appreciation for the cultural diversity, social inequalities, and the interconnectedness of our global community. Leverage the latest tools and methodologies in our cutting edge labs and facilities to enhance your research capabilities, from digital mapping of archaeological sites to the analysis of linguistic patterns.
Adventure awaits with our field schools that provide hands-on experiences, cultural immersion, and interdisciplinary collaboration, preparing students for anthropological research challenges; the Cootes Paradise program explores centuries of history, and the Puglia Italy program focuses on bioarchaeological research of Roman remains. Learn more about Anthropology’s field schools.
An Anthropology degree opens doors to a range of career paths. Graduates may find fulfilling opportunities in fields such as research, education, cultural preservation, international development, human resources, and more. Our Anthropology degree encourages critical thinking, communication and problem-solving skills, as anthropologists strive to understand the complexities of human experiences across time and space. Employers consistently highlight these skills as essential in university graduates, and our Anthropology degree is designed to enhance these skills while broadening your understanding of humanity, encouraging a lifelong curiosity about the ever-evolving narrative of human societies.
Enroll in our Anthropology Undergraduate Honours Program and become a part of a vibrant community of scholars dedicated to unraveling the intricacies of the human tapestry.
Did you know that you can combine Honours degrees?
A combined honours degree provides a unique and enriched academic experience, allowing students to pursue two disciplines simultaneously. This interdisciplinary approach enhances critical thinking, problem-solving, and adaptability skills, creating well-rounded graduates with expertise in multiple fields, providing you with a competitive edge in the job market.
If you have specific questions or need more information about combining honours degrees, feel free to ask!
Program Details
Typical Entry Term
Fall (September)
Program Options
Full-time or part-time
Program Length
Fours years (full-time)
Program Format
Course-based
Expandable List
Completion of any Level I program with a Grade Point Average of at least 5.0 including a grade of at least C in one of ANTHROP 1AA3 or 1AB3.
The Academic Calendar lists course requirements and minimum grade requirements for entry to and continuance in the Honours BA Anthropology.
Sample Courses By Year (Not All Required)
Level I Courses
- ANTHROP 1AA3: Introduction to Anthropology: Sex, Food and Death
- ANTHROP 1AB3: Introduction to Anthropology: Race, Religion, and Social Justice
Level II Courses
- ANTHROP 2E03: Introduction to Biological Anthropology
- ANTHROP 2F03: Introduction to Sociocultural Anthropology: Listening Across Difference
- ANTHROP 2PA3: Introduction to Anthropological Archaeology
Level III Courses
- ANTHROP 3CA3: Ceramic Analysis
- ANTHROP 3BB3: Ancient Agriculture to Criminal Investigations: Paleoethnobotany in Practice
- ANTHROP 3K03: Archaeological Interpretation
Level IV Courses
- ANTHROP 4AA3: Materiality, Matter and Social Lives
- ANTHROP 4CP3: Cultural Politics of Food and Eating
- ANTHROP 4CL3: Archaeology of Climate Change and Culture
Honours BA Anthropology graduates enjoy success beyond the classroom
Based on aggregated Social Sciences data from the Ontario University Graduate Survey from 2017-2021.
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Customize Your Studies
Our flexible degrees let you study your way.
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Anthropology Mentors View Anthropology Mentors
Connect with fellow Anthropology alumni and explore their unique journeys and insights.
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Research Clusters Explore Our Research Clusters
Our research programs and courses incorporate six essential areas of expertise and inquiry.
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Study Abroad STUDY ABROAD
Take your studies beyond Canada. McMaster has exchange agreements with 100+ universities.
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Internships Learn More
Apply to an internship and begin building your professional network.
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Student Research Learn More
Apply for an Undergraduate Student Research Award and get paid to conduct research.
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Minors View Minors
Add a minor to your studies to differentiate yourself in the workplace.
Questions about the BA Anthropology?
Contact Us
Undergraduate Studies and General Inquiries
Enrolment, course permissions, general inquiries
Email: anthdep@mcmaster.ca
Academic Advising Office
Goals, program changes, academic support
Email: socscfac@mcmaster.ca
Phone: (905) 525-9140, ext. 24423
Office Location
Department of Anthropology
Chester New Hall, 524
1280 Main Street West
Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
L8S 4M4