Social and Cultural Anthropology (MA)
Master of Arts (MA)
Offered by:Department of Sociology & Anthropology, Faculty of Arts & Science
Program overview
The MA in Social and Cultural Anthropology enables students to conduct research into a wide array of topics including gender, colonialism, media and technology, language, environmental politics and the senses. In the thesis option, fieldwork projects are individualized, giving you the freedom to choose your subjects and/or a community to work with in consultation with your supervisor. Or you may choose to pursue a year-long, essay (non-thesis) option that requires you to engage in a broad and rigorous study of anthropological literature. This course of study is well-suited for those wanting to dedicate more energy to course work or for a faster point of entry into a Doctoral program. Our faculty members work all over the world on a wide range of topics, and also run local research clusters such as the Centre for Sensory Studies and the Concordia Ethnography Lab.
Program Details
- Undergraduate degree with honours or specialization in anthropology or joint specialization in anthropology and sociology, with a grade point average of 3.00 (B average) is required. An undergraduate degree with a major in anthropology, with a grade point average of 3.00 (B average) is considered, provided that the background preparation is acceptable.
- Proficiency in English. Applicants whose primary language is not English must demonstrate that their knowledge of English is sufficient to pursue graduate studies in their chosen field. Please refer to the Graduate Admission page for further information on the Language Proficiency requirements and exemptions.
Fully-qualified candidates are required to complete a minimum of 45 credits.
MA in Social and Cultural Anthropology with Thesis (Option A)
21 credits – Coursework
ANTH 600 - Identity and Difference (3 credits)
ANTH 601 - Decolonizing Anthropology (3 credits)
ANTH 610 - Ethnographic Research and Ethics (3 credits)
ANTH 620 - Writing Ethnography (3 credits)
ANTH 630 - New Directions in Anthropological Research (3 credits)
ANTH 660 - Professional Development Seminar (3 credits)
ANTH 690 - Thesis Proposal (3 credits)
6 credits – Fieldwork
ANTH 691 - Fieldwork: Stage (6 credits)
18 credits – Thesis
ANTH 692 - Thesis (18 credits)
MA in Social and Cultural Anthropology without Thesis (Essay - Option B)
15 credits – Required Courses
ANTH 600 - Identity and Difference (3 credits)
ANTH 601 - Decolonizing Anthropology (3 credits)
ANTH 610 - Ethnographic Research and Ethics (3 credits)
ANTH 630 - New Directions in Anthropological Research (3 credits)
ANTH 660 - Professional Development Seminar (3 credits)
24 credits – Research and Essay
ANTH 693 - Essay Proposal (3 credits)
ANTH 694 - Bibliographic Research (6 credits)
ANTH 695 - Essay (15 credits)
6 credits – Elective Courses
You may choose one of two options.
- Option A: MA with thesis
- Option B: MA with essay
Students enrolled in option A are required to demonstrate their ability to carry out independent ethnographic field research. A thesis proposal serves as the basis for the elaboration of the written thesis.
Option B is a one year program that asks students to write a research essay under the supervision of a faculty member. Essays are evaluated by two faculty members, including the supervisor, and can be either a literature review or a report on empirical research.
Consult the graduate calendar for full degree requirements.
Your completed application will include:
- Application form and Fee
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Three Letters of Reference and assessment form
- Statement of Purpose (three pages double spaced plus bibliography) should include:
- Your research and fieldwork intentions,
- A short presentation of relevant debates and theories with which your work will engage,
- The name of a potential supervisor whose research area is compatible with your interests with whom you would like to work. It is recommended that contact be made with a potential supervisor prior to submitting the application.
- Sample of writing (optional)
- Transcripts for all post-secondary institutions attended
- Proof of Canadian citizenship (if applicable)
- Applicants whose primary language is not English, are required to submit official language test scores, unless exempted.
Please apply online. Read the how-to guide for application procedures.
| DEGREE |
FALL (September) |
WINTER (January) |
SUMMER (May/June) |
| Social and Cultural Anthropology Option A: MA with thesis |
MA | Feb. 1* | Oct. 1 | n/a |
| Social and Cultural Anthropology Option B: MA with essay |
MA | Feb. 1* | n/a | n/a |
*February 1 is the deadline for applicants who wish to be considered for funding. Applicants who do not require funding must submit applications by April 1. It is recommended that International students apply by March 15th to allow adequate time to obtain study permits.
Courses typically offered include:
- Identity and Difference
- World Anthropologies
- Ethnographic Research and Ethics
- New Directions in Anthropological Research (the content of this course changes each year)
Consult the graduate calendar for a complete list of current courses.
Important information about admissions
Please be advised that Concordia University does not process admissions or fee payments through third parties for our degree programs.
All applicants are advised to ensure that they are communicating directly with the university for admissions and fee payments.
