Anthropology
Anthropology is the study of what it means to be human, whether in the past, the present or the future.
Anthropologists apply research approaches including ethnography, audio-visual and digital methods, excavations, fieldwork and lab-based work. Faculty in the department have undertaken research around the world.
Study anthropology at UVic
Drawing on insights from the social sciences, the sciences and the humanities, anthropologists study how humans have emerged and organized ourselves. Embracing the full diversity of humanity across time and space, anthropologists at UVic work in fields such as:
- human history and material culture (archaeology)
- human evolution and primatology (biological anthropology)
- human culture and society (socio-cultural anthropology)
At UVic, anthropology undergraduate and graduate students have the opportunity to participate in a variety of hands-on and experiential learning opportunities, including field schools and co-operative education.
From small class sizes to hands-on and international learning, learn why you should study anthropology at UVic.
Announcements
Dr. Nowell on a new Neandertal study
August 22, 2025
Dr. April Nowell was interviewed for Global TV about a new Neandertal study. Watch the video "Fossilized child skeleton reveals Homo Sapiens procreated with Neanderthals earlier than thought" here.
Dr. Calce receives Civic Service Award
August 21, 2025
Congratulations to Dr. Stephanie Calce on receiving a Civic Service Award from Victoria Police Department for her help of the last 5 years with their Forensic ID section to determine human from...
Dr. Calce on St. Joseph Residential School Investigation
August 15, 2025
Dr. Stephanie Calce was interviewed about the work she led in the archaeology and forensic anthropology effort in the St. Joseph Residential School Investigation (Deninu Kue First Nation...
Dr. Thom on the Cowichan title case
August 14, 2025
Dr. Brian Thom was had several media engagements discussing the significance of the new BC Supreme Court decision on Cowichan title at the Tl'uqtinus village site on the Fraser River, including...
Dr. Nowell on Paleolithic Children
July 25, 2025
Dr. April Nowell in the Discovery Magazine on the lives of Paleolithic children titled "Paleolithic Children Played with Mud Balls and Tried to Knock Down Cave Formations". Read the article here.
