Practical Anthropology

The Bachelor of Arts in Practical Anthropology at the University of Cape Town is a comprehensive undergraduate programme designed to equip students with a deep understanding of human societies, cultures, and behaviors through a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical skills. This innovative programme emphasizes the application of anthropological theories and methods to real-world issues, preparing graduates for diverse careers in research, community development, and policy analysis. Throughout the course, students engage with a wide range of topics including cultural anthropology, social structures, indigenous knowledge systems, development studies, and applied research techniques. The curriculum is structured to foster critical thinking, ethnographic skills, and intercultural competency, enabling students to analyze complex social phenomena and contribute meaningfully to societal transformation. Hands-on fieldwork forms a key component of the programme, providing students with invaluable experiential learning opportunities to conduct ethnographic research in local and international contexts. The programme also encourages interdisciplinary approaches, integrating perspectives from history, sociology, political science, and environmental studies to broaden students’ understanding of human diversity and global issues. Graduates of the Practical Anthropology programme at UCT are well-prepared to work in academia, non-governmental organizations, government departments, and private sectors that require expertise in social analysis and community engagement. The university’s strong focus on social justice and social development ensures that students are not only equipped with academic knowledge but also committed to ethical practice and community empowerment. With a dedicated faculty of experienced anthropologists and a curriculum tailored to contemporary societal needs, the Bachelor of Arts in Practical Anthropology aims to produce graduates who are thoughtful, socially responsible, and capable of making impactful contributions to society.

Compulsory (core) courses:

• AXL5401W Minor Dissertation
• AXL5402F Anthropology of Development
• AXL5407S Anthropology and Contemporary Theory
• AXL5409F/S Ethnographic Problematiques
• AXL5411W Research Design

Candidates who have not previously completed an approved course in Ethnographic Research Methods (or equivalent) will be required to fill the elective slot with AXL4401F Ethnographic Research Methods and Methodology. 

Candidates who have not previously completed an approved course in the History of Anthropological Thought (or equivalent) will be required to fill the elective slot with AXL4402S Anthropology of Societies in Transition and therefore to extend the specialisation into a second year. Candidates who have not previously completed either of the two above-mentioned types of courses will be required to complete an additional course for the specialisation, and will have no elective slots available

Candidates are required to participate in the Section’s weekly research seminar.  

Elective courses:

• AXL4403F Anthropology of Gender and Sexuality 
• AXL4405S Visual Anthropology
• AXL5403F/S Further Special Topics in Social-Cultural Anthropology
• XL5405F Culture, Health and Illness
• AXL5406S Anthropology of Youth in Research and Development
• AXL5412F Medicine & the Arts
• AXL5416F Science, Nature, Democracy

As far as is possible, the specialisation and the compulsory courses will be tailored to the needs and interests of individual students. Special-topic courses may be created if there is demand and if personnel availability allows. Special-topic courses will normally include more advanced work on an issue dealt with at the undergraduate level or emanating from current departmental research. Subject to approval by the Head of Section, an elective offered by a cognate section or department may replace one or more of the listed electives. Please consult the list at the end of each departmental entry in this handbook for descriptions of elective courses. 

• Satisfactory completion of the Honours specialising in Anthropology with an overall average result of not less than 65%.
• Candidates who have an Honours degree in Anthropology from another university or in a cognate discipline will be considered.
• Candidates must satisfy the Section Head that they are sufficiently proficient in any language that they may require for fieldwork.
• Candidates for the specialisation in Practical Anthropology with non-academic experience in social interventions and/or in the public sphere will be given special consideration. 
• Certified copies of official academic transcripts in ENGLISH (full transcripts for each tertiary institution attended)
• Certified copies of degree certificates in ENGLISH (for each tertiary institution attended where applicable)
• Applicants from universities situated in non-English speaking countries: TOEFL/IELTS certificate OR letter from previous tertiary institution stating “English as medium of instruction” for the programme
• Curriculum vitae (include work experience)
• A recent score (obtained within 3 - 5 years before application for admission) of at least 570 (paper-based test) or 230 (computer-based test) on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
• A recent overall band score of 7.0 (with no individual element of the test scoring below 6.0) on the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).
• OR, noting that this may only be written at certain designated venues within South Africa, a score of at least 65% on the university's Placement Test in English for Educational Purposes (PTEEP).

Scholarships

• International & refugee scholarships
• Merit awards

Practical Anthropology at the University of Cape Town offers students a comprehensive understanding of human societies, cultures, and behaviors through a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application. This programme focuses on equipping students with the skills necessary to analyze social issues, conduct fieldwork, and apply anthropological methods to real-world challenges. The curriculum includes courses on ethnography, social theories, cultural practices, and research methodologies, providing a well-rounded education that prepares students for careers in community development, research, advocacy, and policy analysis.

Students are encouraged to engage in fieldwork activities, which are integral to the programme, allowing them to develop hands-on experience in collecting, analyzing, and interpreting anthropological data. The programme emphasizes ethical considerations in research and promotes an understanding of the diverse cultures within South Africa and globally. It also addresses contemporary issues such as globalization, migration, health, and social justice, making the coursework relevant to current societal developments.

Practical Anthropology at UCT aims to foster critical thinking, cultural sensitivity, and analytical skills. Graduates of the programme are well-equipped to work in academic, governmental, non-governmental, and private sectors. They may pursue roles in cultural consultancy, community engagement, heritage management, or further academic research. The university provides state-of-the-art facilities and experienced faculty members who are experts in their respective fields, ensuring a high-quality educational experience.

Overall, the programme is designed for students passionate about understanding human diversity and addressing complex social problems through a practical, anthropological lens. The combination of theoretical and applied learning ensures graduates are prepared to contribute meaningfully to society and cultural preservation, making this programme a valued choice for those interested in exploring human behaviors and societies in depth.