Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2025 - ARCH 323 D100

Special Topics in Biological Anthropology II (3)

Mummification in the Ancient and New World

Class Number: 4591

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2025: Mon, 9:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    ARCH 131 or any lower division biology course.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Select topics relating to biological anthropology. Variable units: 3, 4, 5.

COURSE DETAILS:

Mummification in the Ancient and New World

This course is an introduction to the study of human mummies. Human mummified bodies shed light on the life and death of past populations, bearing witness to the environments and cultures from which they come from. Although non-human mummies will be discussed, this course intends to focus on the worldwide practices of human mummification as well as the ethics, history, and interdisciplinary approaches of human mummy studies.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

At the end of this course, the students will be able to:

· Identify and describe the distinct stages of soft tissue decomposition and preservation.

· Describe the main types of natural, artificial, and human-induced mummification.

· Describe the main cultures in which mummification practices occurred.

· Understand the different methods and techniques applied in mummy studies.

Grading

  • Mid-term exam 40%
  • Critical analysis 30%
  • Poster presentation 30%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

A week-by-week breakdown of topics and assigned readings will be available in the course syllabus.

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Department Undergraduate Notes:

Students with hidden or visible disabilities who may need class or exam accommodations, including in the context of remote learning, are advised to register with the SFU Centre for Accessible Learning (caladmin@sfu.ca or 778-782-3112) as soon as possible to ensure that they are eligible and that approved accommodations and services are implemented in a timely fashion.

Deferred grades will be given only on the basis of authenticated medical disability.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.