UNIVERSITY OF SUSSEX · UNITED KINGDOM
Social and Cultural Anthropology MA
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
12 mo
Duration
6.5
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 7thin the UK for overall research in Anthropology (REF 2021)
- Top 100in the world for Anthropology (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025)
- 1 yearfull-time duration
- On campuslocation
This Master's program in Social and Cultural Anthropology at the University of Sussex explores human cultures and societies in our evolving world. Through ethnographic research and observation, you will gain insights into complex global challenges and understand the experiences of those most affected. Sussex boasts one of the UK's largest Social Anthropology departments, offering a diverse range of expertise. This course is designed to deepen your academic knowledge, allow you to tailor your studies to your interests, and develop practical ethnographic research skills for your dissertation. It also serves as professional training for those new to the field, highlighting the broad applicability of anthropology in various professional contexts, including NGOs, corporations, education, and policy organizations.
Curriculum
The curriculum is structured to provide a strong foundation in anthropological theory and methods, with opportunities to specialize through optional modules and a dissertation. You will engage in core modules covering ethnographic imagination, contemporary issues, anthropological thinking, and research methods, culminating in a dissertation. Optional modules allow for exploration of diverse topics such as childhood, environment, ethical business, migration, poverty, sexuality, and visual/digital anthropology. A unique option includes a dissertation with a research placement.
- Core Modules (Autumn)
- Anthropology and the Ethnographic Imagination
- Issues in Contemporary Ethnography
- Thinking Like an Anthropologist
- Core Module (Spring)
- Anthropological Research Methods
- Dissertation (Summer)
- Dissertation (Anthropology)
- Optional Modules (Spring/Summer)
- Childhood and Youth in the Contemporary World
- Critical Debates in Environment and Development
- Fair Trade, Ethical Business & New Moral Economies
- Knowledge, Power and Resistance
- Migrant Transnationalism, Refugees and Diaspora
- Poverty, Vulnerability and the Global Economy
- Queer Worlds: Sexualities, Knowledge, Affect
- Visual, Sensory and Digital Anthropology
- Dissertation with Placement (Global Studies)
Careers
An MA in Social and Cultural Anthropology equips you with analytical and research skills applicable to a wide range of careers. The program prepares you for roles in fields that require an understanding of human behaviour, cultural contexts, and societal dynamics.
- NGOs
- Corporations
- Education institutions
- Research organizations
- Policy organizations
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the Social and Cultural Anthropology MA?
- You will need to meet the academic requirements and demonstrate English language proficiency, typically with an IELTS score of 6.5 overall, with at least 6.0 in each component. Some applicants may be exempt from English language requirements based on their country of origin.
- How long is the Social and Cultural Anthropology MA programme?
- The full-time duration for the Social and Cultural Anthropology MA programme is 1 year.
- What is the tuition fee for international students?
- Please refer to the University of Sussex website for current international tuition fees. International Masters students may be required to pay a tuition fee deposit.
- What career paths can I pursue after completing this MA?
- This MA equips you with analytical and research skills applicable to roles in NGOs, corporations, education institutions, research organizations, and policy organizations.
- What is the application deadline for international students?
- The application deadline for international students is 1 August 2026.
- What core modules will I study?
- Core modules include Anthropology and the Ethnographic Imagination, Issues in Contemporary Ethnography, Thinking Like an Anthropologist, and Anthropological Research Methods, followed by a dissertation.
Entry requirements
IELTS6.5 overall with at least 6.0 in each component
Students from certain countries may be exempt from English language requirements. Proficiency tests should ideally have been taken within two years of the course start date. Some offers may be conditional on meeting English language requirements.
Fees
Tuition (international)Please refer to the University of Sussex website for current international tuition fees.
Tuition (home)Please refer to the University of Sussex website for current home/domestic tuition fees.
LivingPlease refer to the University of Sussex website for estimated living and accommodation costs.
International Masters students may be required to pay a tuition fee deposit. U.S. citizens may be eligible for Federal Direct Loans.
How to apply
1. Check Entry RequirementsEnsure you meet the academic and English language requirements for the MA program.
2. Prepare Application DocumentsGather necessary documents, including academic transcripts, proof of English language proficiency, and any other required supporting materials.
3. Submit ApplicationApply online through the University of Sussex admissions portal before the application deadline.
4. Await OfferThe Admissions Office will review your application. If successful, you will receive an offer of a place.
5. Accept Offer and Prepare for StudyUpon receiving an offer, follow the instructions to accept your place and make any required tuition fee deposit. Prepare for your arrival and studies at Sussex.
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the Social and Cultural Anthropology MA?
+
You will need to meet the academic requirements and demonstrate English language proficiency, typically with an IELTS score of 6.5 overall, with at least 6.0 in each component. Some applicants may be exempt from English language requirements based on their country of origin.
How long is the Social and Cultural Anthropology MA programme?
+
The full-time duration for the Social and Cultural Anthropology MA programme is 1 year.
What is the tuition fee for international students?
+
Please refer to the University of Sussex website for current international tuition fees. International Masters students may be required to pay a tuition fee deposit.
What career paths can I pursue after completing this MA?
+
This MA equips you with analytical and research skills applicable to roles in NGOs, corporations, education institutions, research organizations, and policy organizations.
What is the application deadline for international students?
+
The application deadline for international students is 1 August 2026.
What core modules will I study?
+
Core modules include Anthropology and the Ethnographic Imagination, Issues in Contemporary Ethnography, Thinking Like an Anthropologist, and Anthropological Research Methods, followed by a dissertation.