Bachelor of Arts in Archaeology and Indigenous Studies at Simon Fraser University (SFU) - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-12-03

Program overview

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Program Overview

The Bachelor of Arts in Archaeology and Indigenous Studies is a unique joint major program that delves into the intersection of archaeology and Indigenous studies. This program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of Indigenous cultures, particularly in British Columbia and North America. Students will explore Indigenous perspectives on contemporary issues, including archaeology, cultural heritage, resource management, government relations, and land claims. The curriculum emphasizes material culture studies and equips students with the necessary techniques and technologies to analyze both ancient and modern artistic traditions. Additionally, students will learn about the conservation and management of archaeological and museum collections, as well as public exhibits related to Indigenous heritage.

Program Structure

The Bachelor of Arts in Archaeology and Indigenous Studies is structured to provide a well-rounded education in both fields. The program requires students to complete a total of 120 units, which includes a minimum of 45 upper division units. Students have the option to pursue their degree through either the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences or the Faculty of Environment, depending on their academic interests. The program is designed to be flexible, allowing students to tailor their studies in consultation with advisors from both Indigenous Studies and Archaeology.

Key features of the program structure include:

Completion of a joint major focusing on both Archaeology and Indigenous Studies.
Opportunity to engage in interdisciplinary studies that combine cultural heritage and archaeological practices.
Consultation with academic advisors to plan a personalized program of study.

Featured Experiences

This program offers a variety of unique experiences that enhance the learning journey of students. Some of the featured experiences include:

Hands-on training in material culture studies, allowing students to engage directly with archaeological artifacts.
Opportunities to participate in fieldwork and research projects that focus on Indigenous heritage and archaeological sites.
Access to workshops and seminars led by experts in the fields of archaeology and Indigenous studies.
Collaboration with Indigenous communities to gain insights into cultural practices and perspectives.

Career Options

Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts in Archaeology and Indigenous Studies can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada. Here are some potential job options:

Archaeologist: Conduct research and excavations to uncover and analyze artifacts, contributing to the understanding of past human cultures.
Cultural Resource Manager: Oversee the preservation and management of cultural heritage sites, ensuring compliance with legal and ethical standards.
Museum Curator: Manage collections of artifacts and exhibits, developing educational programs that highlight Indigenous cultures and histories.
Indigenous Liaison Officer: Work with Indigenous communities and organizations to facilitate communication and collaboration on cultural heritage projects.
Policy Analyst: Analyze and develop policies related to Indigenous rights, land claims, and cultural heritage management.

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 2025-12-03

Program overview

Academic Requirements

For students interested in the Bachelor of Arts in Archaeology and Indigenous Studies program, the following Academic Requirements must be met:

Minimum GPA: A minimum of 6/10 in Senior Mathematics is required for admission (based on a 50% pass scale).
General Academic Requirements:
- Applicants must submit a transcript that includes interim marks for their senior year. Admission is calculated based on senior level academic subjects.
Faculty/Program-Specific Requirements:
- For the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, which includes the Archaeology and Indigenous Studies program, applicants must meet the general requirements with no additional faculty or program course prerequisites.

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

Students are encouraged to apply as soon as possible to ensure they meet all necessary deadlines. For any clarification or support, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

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:

International English Language Testing System (IELTS - Academic)
- Minimum score: Overall 6.5 with no part less than 6.0
Cambridge English Qualifications
- 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 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
Duolingo English Test (DET)
- Minimum score: Overall score of 125

Enrolment in first-year writing intensive courses requires higher grades than admission grades. Students must meet the University’s literacy requirements in addition to the English language Requirement.

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!

Last updated on 2025-12-06

Program overview