Social Anthropology

Social Anthropology at Queen's University Belfast offers an in-depth exploration of human societies, cultures, and social structures across the globe. This program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the diverse ways in which people live, organize their communities, and interpret their world. Through a combination of theoretical frameworks and empirical research methods, students will develop critical thinking skills and cultural awareness essential for engaging with complex social issues in a global context. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including kinship, religion, politics, economic systems, language, and identity, enabling students to analyze both historical and contemporary societal challenges. Emphasis is also placed on ethnographic fieldwork and qualitative research techniques, allowing students to gain practical experience and firsthand insights into different cultures. The program encourages students to reflect on issues such as globalization, human rights, social justice, and cultural heritage, fostering a nuanced understanding of the interconnectedness of local and global phenomena. Undergraduate students will have opportunities to participate in field trips, internships, and collaborative research projects, enhancing their learning and employability. Graduates of Social Anthropology from Queen's University Belfast are equipped with transferable skills in analysis, communication, and intercultural understanding, preparing them for careers in cultural consultancy, policy development, international organizations, education, research, and community development. The program is suitable for students passionate about exploring human diversity and making a positive impact on society through informed, culturally sensitive approaches. With expert faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and a vibrant academic community, Queen's University Belfast provides an ideal environment for studying social anthropology and preparing for a dynamic global career.

Detailed Course Facts

• EUR 4160 Year (EEA)
• EUR 13380 Year (Non-EEA)

England, Scotland and Wales £9,000; EU £3,575; International: £11,500

• English

Course Content

Year 1

The following modules are offered in first year:

• A World on the Move: Anthropological and Historical Approaches to Globalisation
• Culture and Society: the Social Anthropological Perspective
• Expressive Cultures: Interpreting Text, Image and Sound
• Power, Ritual and Symbol: the View from Anthropology

Years 2 and 3

In second and third year the combinations of compulsory and optional modules vary according to the degree of specialisation in Social Anthropology. Note: Only some of the modules are available each year.

• An Ethnography of Political Violence in Ireland
• Anthropology of Art
• Contemporary Classics in Ethnographic Writing
• Human-Animal Relations: an Anthropological Perspective
• Japanese Society
• Key Debates in Anthropology
• Leisure, Tourism and Culture
• Love, Hate and Beyond: Emotions, Culture, Practice
• Music of Brazil
• Music, Medicine and Culture
• Performance, Power and Passion
• Religion and Ritual
• Sex and Gender
• The Anthropology of Modern Dance
• Dissertation on an approved subject

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6.5

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

Requirements

• A-level: BBB. There are no specific subject requirements at A-level.
• Irish Leaving Certificate: B2B2B2B2CC/B2B2B2B2B2

BA Joint Requirements

For BA Joint Honours the requirements are stated separately under each programme.

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 Queen's University Belfast.

The Bachelor of Arts in Social Anthropology at Queen's University Belfast offers students a comprehensive introduction to the study of human societies, cultures, and social norms across the globe. This programme explores the diversity of human life and the ways in which societies organize themselves, their customs, beliefs, rituals, and social structures. Students gain a deep understanding of cultural practices, social change, and the impact of globalisation on local communities. The curriculum combines theoretical perspectives with ethnographic research methods, equipping students with analytical skills and practical experience. Throughout the programme, students have opportunities to examine topics such as kinship, religion, politics, economics, and identity from an anthropological viewpoint. The programme emphasizes critical thinking and fieldwork, often including opportunities for students to undertake ethnographic research projects, participate in field excursions, and engage with contemporary issues affecting societies worldwide. Graduates of this programme are prepared for careers in academia, social research, public policy, international development, cultural management, and related fields. The university provides state-of-the-art facilities and a vibrant academic community, fostering a stimulating environment for learning and research. Additionally, Queen's offers various support services and extracurricular activities that enhance the educational experience, including guest lectures, seminars, and conferences focused on current anthropological debates. The programme also provides pathways for further academic pursuits, including postgraduate study in social anthropology or related disciplines. Overall, the Social Anthropology programme at Queen's University Belfast aims to produce well-rounded graduates capable of critically analyzing social phenomena and contributing thoughtfully to societal development through scholarly and practical work.