Social Anthropology BA/BSc

Sabrina O'Neil
Oct 15
4 min read

Social Anthropology is the study of human societies, cultures, and behaviours across the world. It explores how people live, think, and organise their communities, examining everything from family structures and religion to politics, economy, and identity.

A Bachelor’s degree in Social Anthropology (BA or BSc) investigates the diversity of human experience and helps students understand both cultural differences and shared aspects of humanity. It combines theory, fieldwork, and critical analysis to offer deep insights into how people shape and are shaped by their social worlds.

Why Study Social Anthropology?

There are many reasons why students choose to study Social Anthropology:

A fascination with people, cultures, and global diversity.
An interest in understanding how different societies function and interact.
The opportunity to study topics such as kinship, belief systems, migration, and globalisation.
Fieldwork experience in local or international communities.
Training in qualitative research and cultural analysis.
Preparation for careers in research, international development, policy, and cultural sectors.

Social Anthropology suits students who are curious, open-minded, and eager to understand the social and cultural dimensions of the human experience.

Course Duration and Structure

In the UK, a Social Anthropology degree typically takes three years of full-time study, or four years if including a placement year, year abroad, or foundation year.

A typical course structure includes:

Year 1: Introduction to social anthropology, cultural theory, and ethnographic studies. Students learn how anthropologists study society and explore key themes such as kinship, belief, and ritual.

Year 2: Intermediate study of anthropological methods, fieldwork skills, and global social issues. Modules may cover topics such as identity, migration, inequality, and environmental anthropology.

Year 3: Advanced topics such as political anthropology, global development, and the anthropology of religion or media. Students complete an independent dissertation or research project based on original or secondary research.

Many courses include opportunities for fieldwork, either in the UK or abroad, allowing students to experience ethnographic research first-hand.

Entry Requirements

Entry requirements vary by university but generally include one of the following:

A Levels: Often including a social science or humanities subject such as Sociology, History, or Geography.
BTEC: A relevant Extended Diploma in Social Sciences or Humanities.
International Baccalaureate (IB): Including Higher Level subjects in Social Science, History, or English.
Other qualifications: Access or foundation courses in Humanities or Social Sciences.
English language proficiency: Required for applicants whose first language is not English.
An interest in global cultures, current affairs, and social theory is beneficial.

Teaching and Assessment

Social Anthropology degrees combine lectures, seminars, and independent research. Students learn through:

Lectures and interactive seminars
Reading groups and tutorials
Fieldwork and ethnographic research projects
Group discussions and presentations
Independent study and writing assignments

Assessment methods typically include:

Essays and written reports
Fieldwork journals and reflective writing
Research projects and presentations
Examinations and data analysis
A final dissertation or ethnographic study

Teaching encourages critical thinking, cultural awareness, and independent research skills.

Skills You Will Develop

A degree in Social Anthropology provides both academic and transferable skills, including:

Cross-cultural understanding and global awareness.
Research and ethnographic fieldwork skills.
Critical thinking and analytical reasoning.
Oral and written communication.
Data interpretation and cultural comparison.
Ethical research and professional sensitivity.
Problem-solving and adaptability.
Teamwork and intercultural communication.

These skills are highly valued in careers involving research, communication, and international engagement.

Career Prospects

Social Anthropology graduates are well-equipped for diverse careers in research, policy, education, media, and international work. Their ability to understand people and societies makes them valuable across many sectors.

Typical career paths include:

Anthropologist or social researcher
International development or NGO worker
Policy analyst or public sector advisor
Journalist or communications specialist
Museum or heritage professional
Human resources or diversity consultant
Cultural liaison or diplomacy specialist
Academic researcher or lecturer
Community outreach or education officer

Many graduates pursue postgraduate study in anthropology, sociology, development studies, or related disciplines.

Tips for Prospective Students

Read about different cultures, societies, and global issues.
Keep up with world news, international politics, and human rights debates.
Practise writing essays that analyse ideas and evidence clearly.
Attend museums, exhibitions, or lectures related to culture and history.
Be open to learning about perspectives that differ from your own.
Take opportunities to travel, volunteer, or work with diverse communities.

Course Variations

Universities may offer a range of related or specialised Anthropology degrees, including:

Social Anthropology (General): Covering cultural theory, fieldwork, and global societies.

Anthropology (Combined): Incorporating both social and biological anthropology.

Social Anthropology and Sociology: Exploring social theory and contemporary issues.

Social Anthropology and International Development: Focusing on global inequality and policy.

Social Anthropology and Archaeology: Studying human culture past and present.

Social Anthropology and Politics: Analysing power, identity, and social movements.

Year Abroad or Placement Year: Offering fieldwork or research experience overseas.