Biological Anthropology with a Year in the USA

The BSc in Biological Anthropology with a Year Abroad at the University of Kent offers a comprehensive exploration of the biological and evolutionary aspects of human beings and our closest relatives. This programme is designed for students who are fascinated by understanding what makes us human, how humans have evolved over millions of years, and how biology influences behavior and health. Over the duration of the course, students will examine a wide range of topics, including human anatomy, genetics, primatology, paleoanthropology, and human evolution. The curriculum integrates theoretical knowledge with practical skills, enabling students to conduct research, analyze data, and appreciate the diversity of human life from biological and ecological perspectives.

One of the key features of this degree programme is the Year Abroad, which provides students with the opportunity to study at an international partner university, immerse themselves in a different academic environment, and gain cultural experiences that enhance their global outlook. This year abroad is an invaluable part of the student experience, offering opportunities to develop independence, language skills, and cross-cultural communication. During the year abroad, students can choose from a variety of modules relevant to their interests and future career plans, often engaging with local research initiatives or fieldwork.

The programme combines lectures, seminars, laboratory work, and field trips to give students a well-rounded education. Practical skills in laboratory techniques, field methods, and data analysis are heavily emphasized, preparing graduates for careers in academia, research, museums, conservation, healthcare, and other related fields. The University of Kent also provides excellent facilities and support for student research, including access to laboratory equipment and a strong network of academic staff with expertise in biological anthropology.

Throughout the course, students are encouraged to develop critical thinking and scientific communication skills, enabling them to interpret complex biological data and present their findings effectively. The programme also aims to foster an understanding of the ethical considerations involved in biological research involving humans and non-human primates. Graduates of this degree may pursue further study at postgraduate level or enter a variety of careers where an understanding of human biology and evolution is valuable. With its blend of theory, practical experience, and international exposure, the BSc in Biological Anthropology with a Year Abroad prepares students for a wide range of professional paths and academic pursuits in the fascinating field of human and primate biology.

Detailed Course Facts

Application deadline January 15 Tuition fee

• GBP 9000 Year (EEA)
• GBP 12450 Year (Non-EEA)

Start date September 2015 Credits (ECTS) 180 ECTS
Duration full-time 48 months Languages Take an IELTS test

• English

Delivery mode On Campus Educational variant Full-time More information Go To The Course Website

Course Content

The course structure below gives a flavour of the modules that will be available to you and provides details of the content of this programme. This listing is based on the current curriculum and may change year to year in response to new curriculum developments and innovation. Most programmes will require you to study a combination of compulsory and optional modules, you may also have the option to take ‘wild’ modules from other programmes offered by the University in order that you may customise your programme and explore other subject areas of interest to you or that may further enhance your employability.

Stage 1

Possible modules may include:

SE301 - Social Anthropology

SE302 - Foundations of Biological Anthropology

SE307 - Thinkers and Theories: An Introduction to theHistory and Development of

SE308 - Skills for Anthropology and Conservation

You have the opportunity to select wild modules in this stage

Stage 2

Possible modules may include:

SE581 - Biological Anthropology: The Human Animal

SE582 - Comparative Perspectives in Primate Biology

SE567 - Methodology in Anthropological Science

Year abroad

You spend a year between Stages 2 and 3 taking courses in biological anthropology at a university in the USA. Students are required to have obtained a Stage 2 average of 60% or above, before commencing their year abroad.

Possible modules may include:

SE571 - Anthroplogy Year Abroad Mark One

SE572 - Anthropology Year Abroad Mark Two

Stage 3

Possible modules may include:

SE533 - Project in Anthropological Science

SE541 - The Evolution of Hominin Behaviour

SE542 - Human Ecology

SE549 - The Anthropology of Health, Illness and Medicine

SE556 - Social Sciences in the Classroom

SE565 - Sex Evolution and Human Nature

SE566 - Human Osteology

SE585 - From the Raw to the Cooked: The Anthropology of Eating

SE593 - Evolution of Human Diversity

SE575 - Medicinal Plants: Home Remedy, Pharmaceutical, Illicit Drug

SE580 - Primate Behaviour and Ecology

SE569 - Palaeopathology

SE570 - Current Issues in Evolutionary Anthropology

DI503 - Evolutionary Genetics and Conservation

You have the opportunity to select wild modules in this stage

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6.5

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

take an IELTS test.

Requirements

Home/EU students

The University will consider applications from students offering a wide range of qualifications, typical requirements are listed below, students offering alternative qualifications should contact the Admissions Office for further advice. It is not possible to offer places to all students who meet this typical offer/minimum requirement.

Qualification Typical offer/minimum requirement

• A level:ABB including Science (Biology preferred) or Psychology, Chemistry, Mathematics grade B.

• GCSE:Mathematics grade C.

• Access to HE Diploma:The University of Kent will not necessarily make conditional offers to all access candidates but will continue to assess them on an individual basis. If an offer is made candidates will be required to obtain/pass the overall Access to Higher Education Diploma and may also be required to obtain a proportion of the total level 3 credits and/or credits in particular subjects at merit grade or above.

• BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma (formerly BTEC National Diploma):The university will consider applicants holding BTEC National Diploma and Extended National Diploma Qualifications (QCF; NQF;OCR) on a case by case basis please contact us via the enquiries tab for further advice on your individual circumstances.

• International Baccalaureate:34 points overall or 16 points at HL including 4 in Mathematics at HL or SL and 5 in a HL Science or 6 in SL Science.

International students

The University receives applications from over 140 different nationalities and consequently will consider applications from prospective students offering a wide range of international qualifications. Our International Development Office will be happy to advise prospective students on entry requirements.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than University of Kent.

Funding

Kent offers generous financial support schemes to assist eligible undergraduate students during their studies. Our 2015 financial support package includes a £6,000 cash bursary spread over the duration of your course. For Ts&Cs and to find out more, visit our funding page.

General scholarships

Scholarships are available for excellence in academic performance, sport and music and are awarded on merit. For further information on the range of awards available and to make an application see our scholarships website.

The Kent Scholarship for Academic Excellence

At Kent we recognise, encourage and reward excellence. We have created the Kent Scholarship for Academic Excellence, which will be awarded to any applicant who achieves a minimum of AAA over three A levels, or the equivalent qualifications as specified on our funding pages. Please note that details of the scholarship for 2015 entry have not yet been finalised and are subject to change.

The Biological Anthropology program at the University of Kent offers students a comprehensive understanding of human evolution, anatomy, and behavior through an interdisciplinary approach that combines biological sciences, archaeology, and social sciences. This course aims to equip students with knowledge of human biological diversity, evolutionary history, and the processes that have shaped modern humans. Students will explore topics such as primatology, paleoanthropology, forensic anthropology, human genetics, and primate behavior. The program emphasizes practical skills through laboratory work, fieldwork, and data analysis, preparing graduates for careers in research, healthcare, forensic science, and conservation. The Year in the USA provides students with an invaluable opportunity to study abroad, gaining international exposure, enhancing language skills, and experiencing different academic environments, which enriches their understanding of global biological and anthropological issues. Throughout the course, students will engage in lectures, seminars, and hands-on sessions facilitated by experienced faculty members, many of whom are active researchers in their respective fields. The program also offers opportunities for independent research projects, encouraging critical thinking and analytical skills. Graduates of the program have gone on to pursue postgraduate studies or careers in biological research, museum curation, conservation, and forensic science. The university’s strong links with museums, research institutes, and healthcare organizations provide valuable networking opportunities and practical experience. The program is designed to prepare students for the challenges of the dynamic and expanding field of biological anthropology. The curriculum is regularly updated to reflect the latest research and developments, ensuring that students receive a cutting-edge education that is relevant to current scientific and societal questions. The university's supportive academic community and state-of-the-art facilities create an ideal environment for studying this fascinating discipline.