Anthropology and Sociology Simon Fraser University

Overview

The Anthropology and Sociology programme at Simon Fraser University provides a rigorous interdisciplinary foundation for understanding the complexities of contemporary social life. By combining two distinct yet complementary fields, the curriculum encourages students to critically examine the relations between people, ideas, and global structures. This joint major is designed to equip learners with the theoretical and practical skills necessary to navigate and analyse a rapidly changing world.

Students benefit from a diverse learning environment that spans multiple campuses, including Burnaby and Surrey, alongside flexible online options. The programme emphasises the development of qualitative and quantitative research abilities, ensuring graduates can produce meaningful insights into social processes.

Why Anthropology and Sociology at Simon Fraser University?

Simon Fraser University offers a unique joint major structure that allows students to integrate anthropological perspectives on culture with sociological analyses of social systems. The Department of Sociology and Anthropology is known for its commitment to "engaging the world," providing students with access to contemporary ethnography and classical social thought. Facilities across the Burnaby, Surrey, and Vancouver campuses support a vibrant academic community dedicated to social justice and research excellence.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: CAD 37442 per year
• National fee: CAD 7502 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is structured to provide a balance of introductory concepts and advanced theoretical frameworks. Modules may include:

• Anthropology
• Sociology
• Anthropology and Contemporary Life
• Sociological Theory
• Social Research
• Quantitative Research in Sociology and Anthropology
• Contemporary Ethnography
• Classical Sociological Thought
• Quantitative Methods
• Ethnography and Qualitative Methods

Careers with Anthropology and Sociology

Graduates of this programme are prepared for a wide range of professional paths that require deep cultural understanding and social analytical skills. The training in research ethics, data collection, and critical writing is highly valued in sectors such as community development, social policy, and international relations. Former students often find success in roles within non-governmental organisations, public administration, and social research institutes where they apply their knowledge of social inequalities and cultural dynamics.