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.
News & stories
Dr. McGuire on Vikings in Live Science
September 21, 2026
Dr. Erin McGuire is quoted in Live Science article titled "Did the Vikings really shoot fiery arrows at funeral boats?". Read the article here.
Dr. McGuire's chapter on Vikings published
September 17, 2026
Congratulations to Dr. Erin McGuire! Dr. McGuire's chapter "Migrant Identities, Mortuary Citations, and New Ancestors in Western Scandinavian Scotland" was published in a new...
Dr. Thom on The Great Land Grab
September 14, 2026
Just released - a new video in association with the travelling museum exhibit called The Great Land Grab. In this video, Professor Brian Thom from the University of Victoria introduces us to the...
Dr. Thom on land claims
August 24, 2026
Dr. Brian Thom in Times Colonist comments in an article "B.C. Treaty Commission to focus on issues of overlapping land claims". Read the article here.
Employment Opportunity - Assistant Professor with specialization in Northwest Coast archaeology
August 18, 2026
We are seeking a collaborative colleague who shares our commitment to community-engaged research and experiential learning. The appointment will be at the rank of Assistant Professor, and the...
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