Program overview
At the Department of Anthropology and Archaeology, we take a comparative, cross-cultural and cross-specific perspective to understand human beings. We consider how humans evolved, how they shape — and are shaped by — their culture, and we seek to understand the records they have left behind. Our students are curious and driven to understand the world around them. And the research options are boundless for students accepted into this thesis-based program, boasting both a socio-cultural stream (anthropology and militarization, medical anthropology, sustainability, urban anthropology) and a biological anthropology stream (conservation, human osteology, population genetics, primatology, paleoanthropology).
Completing this program
- Coure courses include Thesis Development and Professional Skills for Anthropologists.
- Students choose a methods course: either Methods in Anthropological Research or Current Issues in Methodology in Primatology.
- Students choose a theory course: either Anthropological Theory or Primatological Theory.
- Students are required to prepare a thesis and successfully defend in an open oral defense.
Specializations
Biological Anthropology (Interdisciplinary)
Outcomes
Cultural Resource Management, Corporate Consulting, International health organizations, International and community development, Market research, Law, Humanitarian efforts, forensics, medicine, veterinary medicine, conservation, academic positions.
A master’s degree in anthropology will give you the pre-requisite for a PhD.
GPA
A minimum of 3.3 GPA on a 4.0 point system, over the past two years of full-time study (a minimum of 10 full-course equivalents or 60 units) of the undergraduate degree.
Minimum education
A four year baccalaureate degree, or equivalent from a recognized institution.
Work samples
An example of the applicant's written work in the research context.
Documents
- A statement outlining the applicant's interests and reasons for wishing to pursue graduate work in this department. Clearly identify your thesis research area
- A C.V
Reference letters
Two
Test scores
None
English language proficiency
An applicant whose primary language is not English may fulfill the English language proficiency requirement in one of the following ways:
- TOEFL score of 86 with no section less than 20 (Internet-based). Our institution code is 0813
- IELTS score of 6.5 with no section less than 6.0 (Academic version)
- MELAB score of 80, or higher
- PTE score of 59, or higher (Academic version)
- Tier 3 of the International Foundations Program with minimum grades of B,C,C (Writing & Grammar, Reading Comprehension, Listening Comprehension & Oral Fluency)
Deadlines
For admission on September 1:
Canadian and permanent - apply by January 15
International - please be sure to review the international requirements and apply by January 15
If you're not a Canadian or permanent resident, or if you have international credentials, make sure to learn about international requirements
Tuition fees and funding
All graduate students must pay yearly general fees, as well as applicable program fees.
Funding availability
A comprehensive funding package is guaranteed for all MA students in years 1-2 ($21, 000 annually). Available for both Canadian and international graduate students.
Fees glossary
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General fees are annual and per-term fees. Annual fees are paid once per year, while per-term are paid each term (3 terms per year).
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Program fees cover standard academic costs. Textbooks and other course material costs are not included.
- Continuing fees apply yearly after the first year of full studies.
Estimated fees for full-time students
Canadians and permanent residents
General fees (12 months of study): $1,843 CAD
Program fees (first 12 months of study): $5,594 CAD
Total for first year: $7,437 CAD
Continuing fees: $1,627 CAD
International students
General fees (12 months of study): $1,843 CAD
Program fees (first 12 months of study): $12,696 CAD
Total for first year: $14,539 CAD
Continuing fees: $3,693
Fees listed here are estimates only, and have been rounded to the nearest dollar. These amounts should not be considered accurate. All amounts are in Canadian Dollars.
Fees are subject to change.
For more details and the most accurate information go to the Academic Calendar.
For more general information, see our Fees and Funding Guide.
Learn more about this program
Related programs
If you're interested in this program, you might want to explore other UCalgary programs.
Highlights of the Anthropology program
These stories from those involved in the program show what it's like to be involved yourself.
Steig Johnson looks at preserving one of world's most endangered primate species
UCalgary anthropology prof monitors Madagascar rainforest and its lemur inhabitants
2017 Vanier Scholar explores daily life in the aftermath of national tragedy
Michele Bianchi is one of UCalgary's 11 Vanier Canada Graduate Scholars
Passion for anthropology fuels student's interest in global conversation on incl
Ultra-marathoner Ian MacNairn is first UCalgary student to earn one of 30 spots at exclusive international conference
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