Anthropology BA/BSc

Anthropology is the study of humanity in all its diversity, exploring cultures, societies, languages and biological development across time and place. It asks questions about what it means to be human, how societies are organised, and how culture and biology shape our lives. A degree in Anthropology is perfect for students who are curious about people, fascinated by diversity, and eager to understand global perspectives.

Course Structure

Most Anthropology degrees last three years full time, or four years with a placement or study abroad. Many universities offer two main pathways: Social and Cultural Anthropology, which studies societies, cultures and belief systems, and Biological (or Evolutionary) Anthropology, which focuses on human evolution, genetics and primatology. Some programmes combine both.

Teaching includes lectures, seminars, fieldwork, ethnographic research, lab sessions and independent study. Assessment is usually through essays, research projects, presentations, exams and a final-year dissertation.

Typical Modules

Year 1 – Foundations of Anthropology

Introduction to Social and Cultural Anthropology

Introduction to Biological and Evolutionary Anthropology

Kinship, Identity and Belief Systems

Human Origins and Evolution

Methods in Anthropology: Fieldwork and Ethnography

Year 2 – Core Themes in Anthropology

Economic and Political Anthropology

Anthropology of Religion, Ritual and Myth

Language and Culture (Linguistic Anthropology)

Human Ecology and Adaptation

Contemporary Issues in Anthropology (migration, inequality, globalisation)

Research Methods and Data Analysis

Year 3 – Advanced Study and Research

• Medical Anthropology or Environmental Anthropology

  
  

• Anthropology of Media and Technology

  
  

• Human Evolutionary Genetics or Primatology

  
  

• Globalisation, Development and Social Change

  
  

• Dissertation or Independent Ethnographic/Research Project

  
  

• Optional modules may include visual anthropology, human rights, or archaeology.

Useful A-Level or BTEC Subjects

Entry requirements vary, but helpful subjects include:

• A levels: Sociology, Anthropology (if available), Biology, Geography, History, or Religious Studies.

  
  

• BTECs: Applied Social Sciences, Health and Social Care, or Applied Science may be considered.

  
  

• International Baccalaureate: Higher Level Anthropology, Biology, Sociology or Geography are strong choices.

What Makes a Strong Application

Universities look for students who are open-minded, globally aware and analytical. A strong application should include:

• Good academic performance in essay-based and/or science subjects.

  
  

• A personal statement showing curiosity about human diversity, cultures or evolution.

  
  

• Evidence of wider engagement, such as travel, volunteering, museum visits, or reading in anthropology.

  
  

• Extracurriculars like involvement in debating, human rights campaigns or environmental projects.

Transferable Skills You Will Develop

Anthropology provides a wide range of academic and professional skills, including:

• Critical thinking – analysing cultural norms and human behaviour.

• Research methods – conducting ethnography, fieldwork and interviews.

• Cultural awareness – understanding global perspectives and diversity.

• Communication – presenting complex ideas clearly.

• Problem-solving – addressing social, cultural and environmental challenges.

• Adaptability – working across cultures and disciplines.

Wider Reading: Recommended Books for Aspiring Anthropology Students

Here are four engaging books to inspire and prepare you:

“Anthropology: A Very Short Introduction” by Peter Just and John Monaghan – A concise overview of the subject.

“Coming of Age in Samoa” by Margaret Mead – A classic ethnographic study of culture and adolescence.

“Guns, Germs and Steel” by Jared Diamond – A global history of human societies and inequality.

“Watching the English” by Kate Fox – A humorous take on British culture and social behaviour.

Typical Pay After Graduation

Anthropology graduates go into a variety of fields. Starting salaries are typically £22,000–£28,000 in roles such as research, NGOs, heritage, education, and public service. With experience, careers in cultural consultancy, international development, policy, or academia can earn £35,000–£50,000. Senior positions in research, government or international organisations may reach £60,000+.