Anthropology Athabasca University

Overview

The Anthropology degree at Athabasca University offers a comprehensive exploration of human diversity through a flexible, online learning environment. This four-year programme provides students with a deep understanding of human similarities and differences across various global contexts and historical periods.

Why Anthropology at Athabasca University?

Athabasca University employs a distinctive four-field approach to the discipline, ensuring a well-rounded education that covers archaeology, biological anthropology, sociocultural anthropology, and linguistic anthropology. As Canada’s Open University, the institution provides an accessible platform where students can enrol at any time and begin their studies immediately. The programme is designed for maximum flexibility, allowing learners to balance their education with personal and professional commitments while benefiting from high student satisfaction rates and strong graduate employment outcomes.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: CAD 1863 per credit
• National fee: CAD 1863 per credit

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

Syllabus

The curriculum is structured to provide a holistic view of humanity, from ancient civilisations to modern social structures. Modules may include:

• Time Travellers: Archaeologists at Work
• Faces of Culture
• Archaeology of Us
• Human Evolution and Diversity
• Primate Behaviour
• Ancient Cities & Civilisations
• Ecological Anthropology
• Language and Culture
• History of Anthropological Thought

Careers with Anthropology

Graduates are equipped with analytical and research skills applicable to a wide range of professional sectors. The programme prepares individuals for roles in heritage management, public policy, and international relations. Potential career paths include working as a cultural resource manager, government policy analyst, or ethnographer. Graduates may also find opportunities in museums as technicians or assistants, or pursue roles as immigration officers, refugee services coordinators, and market research analysts. The degree also serves as a robust foundation for those wishing to progress into graduate studies or academic research.