Established in 1974, the Anthropology Graduate Program is one of the longest standing graduate programs at Trent University. 

The Anthropology M.A. gives students an excellent foundation in anthropological theories and research methods.  Encompassing science, social science and the humanities, this discipline offers ample opportunity for specialization as well as the chance to undertake fascinating field work around the world.  With a focus on the field of archaeology, ethnohistory, and the anthropology of art, our Master’s program provides students with a thorough grounding in anthropological theories and research methods. With this solid foundation in hand, students can opt to explore several areas of specialization including:

  • the archaeology and ethnohistory of Canada, Mesoamerica, South America and the U.S. Southwest
  • Canadian historical archaeology
  • Old World prehistory
  • Mediterranean archaeology
  • archaeology of the ancient Roman world
  • archaeological method and theory
  • landscape and environmental archaeology
  • mortuary practices
  • public archaeology
  • and the intersections of art and material culture with issues of gender, identity, beliefs, and social organization

In addition to providing a thorough grounding in anthropological theories and research methods as a preparation for continuing study at the Ph.D. level, our program produces graduates with sufficient depth and breadth of outlook to meet the need for resourcefulness, versatility and adaptability in modern society.

Graduates of Trent’s Anthropology M.A. program are well-equipped to pursue an array of professional careers, including:

  • Museum Curator
  • Academic Anthropologist (teacher and researcher)
  • Researcher
  • Forensic Anthropologist
  • Corporate Anthropologist / Market Researcher
  • Policy Analysis
  • Language Revitalization
  • Lawyer
  • Public Health Professional
  • Urban Planner
  • Cultural Heritage Management Consultant
  • Heritage Tourism Consultant/Planner/Administrator
  • Heritage Education Program Coordinator
  • Tour Operator/Guide

Applying to the Anthropology Graduate Program

The general regulations and requirements of Trent University for the M.A. degree apply to the Anthropology Graduate Program.   To be eligible for admission, the applicant must possess a joint or single Honours B.Sc. or B.A. degree or equivalent in Anthropology or a related field, with an average of at least an upper second class standing (B+, 77%) in the work of the last four semesters or the last two undergraduate years (full time equivalent).

Students are admitted to the program once a year for studies beginning the following September.  Applicants to the program are expected to have a foundation in appropriate research methodology.  They may be required to take an undergraduate course deemed necessary to their program of graduate study, for example ANTH 3000Y, ANTH 3100Y or ANTH – CAST – INDG 2530Y.

Applications should be received by February 1st to be considered for admission and funding.

Application forms are available from the Graduate Studies site.

A $75.00 CDN application fee must accompany your application.