Anthropology Degrees

An anthropology degree involves studying people around the world, their development and their culture. A degree programme normally includes developing awareness of social and biological sciences, as well as how humans behave and adapt to differing environments. 

Studying Anthropology

These courses take three to four years of full time study to complete (taking a sandwich year is possible) and course modules are normally completed via dissertation, project work, essay writing, presentations and exams.

Topics Covered

During an undergraduate level degree, students will be taught a wide range of topics that will help them to understand theories and concepts around anthropology.  Year 1 involves several core modules to create a foundation of knowledge, such as introducing social anthropology, media and society, biological anthropology, and cultures. Year 2 includes current debates in anthropology, research methods, sociology and philosophy of globalisation, visual anthropology, and society, while year 3 offers optional modules, including childhood, European societies, health and illness, anthropology of human rights, disability and society, addiction, anthropology of Africa.

Entry Requirements

Students usually require grades AAB-ABB at A Level to gain access to an anthropology degree, depending on the university you are applying to. GCSE grade A-C in Maths and English may also be required. The top five UK institutions for anthropology are University of Oxford, UCL, Durham University, London School of Economics and St. Andrews.

You are advised to contact the university you are applying to for a full breakdown of entry requirements.

Career Prospects

A degree in anthropology can lead to further study within sociology or philosophy, or alternatively, lead to a research position. A postgraduate degree in anthropology is for students who already have comprehensive knowledge of the subject and wish to expand on their understanding. They may also want to prepare for further academic research. A postgraduate degree can be completed in twelve months or two years of part time study.