Bachelor Of Arts In Anthropology at Simon Fraser University (SFU) - Program overview

This program is currently under review and being updated. For the most up-to-date information, please contact us.

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2026-05-29

Program overview

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Program overview

The Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology at Simon Fraser University is designed to explore the fundamental questions surrounding human behavior and cultural interactions. This program engages students with contemporary social life across the globe, providing them with analytical tools to understand the intricate relationships among people, ideas, and cultural artifacts. Through a comprehensive curriculum, students will gain insights into the role of culture and society in shaping human experiences, preparing them for various career paths in the field of anthropology and beyond.

Program structure

The Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology program at Simon Fraser University has a structured approach to ensure a well-rounded education in the field. The program requires students to complete a total of 120 units, which includes both lower and upper division courses. The program structure is as follows:

Completion of lower division requirements, including a minimum of 22 units in lower division SA courses.
Completion of upper division requirements, including a minimum of 30 units in upper division SA courses.
Students are encouraged to balance theory courses with methods courses to enhance their research skills.
Options for co-op or internship experiences may be available, providing practical exposure to the field.

Students are also advised to consult with academic advisors to tailor their course selections to align with their interests and career goals.

Featured Experiences

Co-op opportunities that allow students to gain practical experience in the field of anthropology.
Fieldwork experiences that provide hands-on learning and application of anthropological methods.
Access to unique seminars and workshops that focus on contemporary issues in anthropology.
Joint partner programs that may enhance learning through collaboration with other institutions.
Research projects that encourage students to engage with real-world problems and contribute to the field.

Career Options

Anthropologist: Conduct research on cultural practices and social structures, often working in academic or governmental settings.
Cultural Resource Manager: Oversee the preservation and management of cultural heritage sites and artifacts.
Social Researcher: Analyze social trends and behaviors, often for non-profit organizations or government agencies.
Policy Analyst: Evaluate and develop policies related to social issues, using anthropological insights to inform decision-making.
Community Development Worker: Work with communities to address social issues and improve living conditions through culturally informed strategies.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Visit Simon Fraser University (SFU) official website

Last updated on 2026-05-29

Program overview

Academic Requirements

For the Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology program, the following academic requirements must be met:

Minimum GPA: Not specified.
International Students:
- All applicants must meet the university's English Language Requirement.
- All applicants must meet the university's Quantitative and Analytical Skills requirements.
- For Vietnamese students, a minimum of 6/10 in Senior Mathematics is required for admission (based on a 50% pass scale).
- Submit a transcript which includes interim marks for senior year. Admission is calculated on senior level academic subjects.
Prerequisite Courses:
- Must meet general requirements - no additional faculty/program course prerequisites for the Anthropology program.

Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

If you have any questions or need further clarification regarding the application process, please feel free to contact LOA Portal's advisors for support.

Language Requirements

English is the language of instruction at SFU. All applicants, regardless of country of origin or citizenship status, will be required to have demonstrated competence in the English language prior to admission. Competence is required in all four of the following skills: listening, reading, speaking, and writing.

As an applicant to undergraduate studies, you must demonstrate English language competence through one of the options below:

Completion of the last three (3) years of full-time secondary school education in English in Canada
- Minimum requirement: 70% in a senior level English
Completion of the last three (3) years of full-time secondary school education in English, in a country in which the principal language of instruction is English
- Minimum requirement: 70% in a senior level English
Completion of the last four (4) years of full-time secondary school education in English at a recognized international school in a country in which the principal language of instruction is not English
- Minimum requirement: 70% in a senior level English
Completion of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program including English A (HL/SL) or English Literature and Performance (SL)
- Minimum requirement: Grade of a 3
Completion of a three unit English (ENGL) course or a certified W (writing intensive) course for which SFU grants transfer credit
- Minimum requirement: Grade of a C- (C minus)
GCSE O-Level English (or GCSE English Language B)
- Minimum requirement: Grade of a 4 (or C)

Alternatively, you may complete a Language Proficiency Exam. Note that Language Proficiency Exams taken more than two years (24 months) prior to application will not be considered.

International English Language Testing System (IELTS - Academic)
- Minimum score: Overall 6.5 with no part less than 6.0
Cambridge English Qualifications
- any one of:
  - B2 First
  - C1 Advanced
  - C2 Proficiency
- Minimum score: Overall score 176, with no part less than 169
Test of English as a Foreign Language internet based test (TOEFL iBT)
- Minimum score: Overall score of 88 with no part less than 20 (for tests taken prior to January 21, 2026: Overall score 88 with no part less than 20)
Canadian Academic English Language (CAEL)
- Minimum score: Overall score of 70, with no part less than 60
Pearson Test of English (PTE)
- Minimum score: Overall score of 65, and a minimum score of 60 in the Communicative Skills, including: Listening, Reading, Speaking, Writing
Duolingo English Test (DET)
- Minimum score: Overall score of 125
LanguageCert Academic
- Minimum score: Overall score of 70, with no part less than 65

Please check with our team for more details.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!