Bachelor of Arts and Science - Anthropology & Physics (Optional Co-op)

For the Bachelor of Arts and Science, students must complete two majors: an Arts major, and a Science major. Anthropology

Anthropology studies the diversity of human life in every part of the world. Long-term ethnographic fieldwork is the hallmark of the anthropological approach to studying the human condition and allows people to see how our world fits into a larger context.

Contemporary anthropology examines the material, social, and cultural conditions of human behaviour and life from a “locally global” perspective.

Anthropology will expose students to a variety of different cultures. At the same time, students will learn to examine their life from an anthropological perspective. Students will learn how to explore and understand radically different contexts in both their own and other cultures.

Two elements distinguish anthropology: an intensely comparative, wide-ranging view of human society and culture, and a strong desire to know how individuals in specific cultures make sense of the world and respond to its challenges.

Anthropologists are committed to understanding common aspects of human social life, despite apparent differences. They typically spend long periods of time doing field research where they interact with people in their environment to gain cultural understanding.

Physics

Physics is the study of matter and energy at all scales, from the sub-nuclear to the dimensions of the universe. It is the fundamental science — all other sciences and technologies rely on the principles of physics. Physics involves observing and understanding natural phenomena. It is evident in the world in everything from the seasons, the motion of objects, the flight of birds, the night sky and the weather, to lasers, electronics and the technology society relies on today. Physics is very much a “hands-on” science, so the most effective way for students to learn the subject is to actually do physics. Astronomy teaches students how to study objects at a distance and interpret the information gathered. This helps to begin to understand the universe we live in. The skills students will learn in astronomy are also applicable to remote sensing and its application to environmental problems. The department offers a comprehensive physics major. The foundation of this program is built in the first two years, as students study mechanics, waves, electricity and magnetism, optics, thermal physics and modern physics. In the third and fourth years, students will gain a deeper understanding of the fundamentals and delve into more advanced and specialized areas. Specialized topics may include the research interests of department faculty members, as all faculty members are involved in rigorous research programs. Faculty members also ensure students are provided with a wide view of physics, exposing them to all areas of the subject and describing a wide variety of applications. This enables students to make informed decisions when choosing the areas they may wish to pursue in the future.