Anthropology BA/BSc
Study of human cultures, societies, languages, and biological diversity - exploring how people live, adapt, organise communities, and make meaning across different times and places.
Is this for you?
This degree could suit you if you:
Are interested in human cultures and societies
Enjoy learning about different ways of life
Like research and fieldwork
Want a global perspective
Are curious
Popular Career Fields
Research & Academia
International Development
Charity & NGO Sector
Government & Public Sector
Your Personality Might Be:
Culturally curious
International Development
Observant
Empathetic listener
What is it?
What is an Anthroplogy degree?
Anthropology is the study of humanity in all its cultural, social, and biological forms. It explores how people across the world behave, communicate, celebrate, believe, and adapt to social and environmental change.
Depending on the programme, you may study both social anthropology (cultures, beliefs, identity, social structures) and biological anthropology (human evolution, genetics, health, adaptation).
You might examine topics such as kinship, ritual, identity, globalisation, inequality, language, human origins, and the cultural meanings that shape everyday life. Many degrees include ethnographic methods, studying communities through observation and engagement.
Why Study for an Anthroplogy degree?
If you’re fascinated by people, culture, difference, communication, and global issues, Anthropology offers an intellectually rich and wide-ranging degree.
It helps you explore:
How societies develop and adapt
How culture shapes identity and behaviour
Why global inequalities emerge
How communities respond to social, political, and environmental change
Anthropology is widely valued for its cultural sensitivity, analytical depth, and ability to understand people in context.
Course Summary
Study of human cultures, societies, languages, and biological diversity - exploring how people live, adapt, organise communities, and make meaning across different times and places.
What you'll study
This degree could include topics such as:
Cultural theory, identity, kinship, religion, and social structures
Ethnographic research methods and fieldwork skills
Globalisation, migration, and cultural change
Inequality, development, and political anthropology
Human evolution, adaptation, and biological diversity (varies by programme)
Language, communication, and symbolic systems
Skills You'll Gain
An Anthropology degree builds strong academic and practical skills, including:
Ethnographic and research skills – enabling you to gather deep insights through observation, interviewing, and cultural engagement.
Critical and conceptual thinking – helping you analyse social and cultural issues from multiple perspectives.
Communication and writing – allowing you to explain complex ideas clearly and sensitively.
Intercultural understanding – preparing you to work respectfully with diverse communities and global teams.
Analytical skills – enabling you to interpret patterns, behaviours, and global social issues.
Explore Uni Open Days
Pathways, Placements and Work Experience
CAREERS
Career Pathways
Graduates often work in:
International development and NGOs
Cultural, heritage, and museum sectors
Social research and policy organisations
Community development and public services
Media, journalism, and communications
Education, youth, or outreach roles
Human rights or advocacy work
Global business and intercultural consultancy
Work Experiences & Placements
Opportunities vary by university but may include:
NGOs, humanitarian, or international development roles
Museums, archives, or cultural institutions
Social research organisations
Community and youth organisations
Human rights or advocacy groups
Media, communications, or creative projects
Anthropology graduates often engage with communities through voluntary roles or research fieldwork.
Salary Profile
Coming soon
Qualifications, Personal Satement, What to do Next?
AM I ELIGIBLE?
Entry Requirements
A-levels or equivalent. Most universities accept a broad range of subjects. Sociology, Psychology, History, Geography, Biology, or English are beneficial.
Personal Statement Tips
Show curiosity about people, culture, and global issues.
Mention any travel, volunteering, reading, or experiences that shaped your interests.
Reflect on social or cultural questions that fascinate you.
Highlight communication, empathy, adaptability, and analytical skills.
What to do Next
Compare BA vs BSc options depending on preferred focus.
Look at fieldwork opportunities offered by different universities.
Attend open days or sample lectures.
Read introductory anthropology texts or explore documentaries.
Wider Reading
Anthropology: A Very Short Introduction – Thomas Hylland Eriksen
A concise and engaging overview of anthropology’s key questions, methods, and themes.The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down – Anne Fadiman
A powerful exploration of cultural misunderstanding within healthcare systems.Sapiens – Yuval Noah Harari
A broad, accessible account of human evolution, culture, and the forces that shaped modern societies.Watching the English – Kate Fox
A humorous ethnographic look at everyday English behaviour and cultural norms.