Social Anthropology

The Bachelor of Social Anthropology at the University of Kent offers students a comprehensive introduction to the diverse and dynamic field of social and cultural anthropology. This degree program is designed to provide an in-depth understanding of human societies, cultures, and behaviors across the globe, focusing on both contemporary social issues and long-standing cultural practices. Throughout the course, students will explore key themes such as kinship, religion, politics, economic systems, and identity, gaining insights into how societies function and adapt in an ever-changing world.

The program emphasizes critical thinking, ethnographic research, and analytical skills, enabling students to examine social phenomena from multiple perspectives. Students will have the opportunity to engage with a variety of research methods, including participant observation, interviews, and data analysis, equipping them with practical skills essential for careers in academia, policy-making, international development, NGOs, and other fields related to social and cultural analysis.

In addition to core modules, students are encouraged to explore specialized topics such as globalization, urban anthropology, medicine and health, migration, and human rights. The curriculum is designed to be flexible, allowing students to tailor their studies according to their interests and career aspirations. The program also offers opportunities for fieldwork and internships, providing hands-on experience and real-world understanding of social issues across different cultural contexts.

The university's vibrant academic community and diverse student body create an enriching environment for learning and cultural exchange. With dedicated faculty members who are experts in their fields, students receive personalized support and mentorship throughout their academic journey. Graduates of the Social Anthropology program develop critical, cross-cultural understanding and research skills that prepare them for various professional pathways, including academic research, urban and rural development, social policy, cultural consultancy, and international organizations.

By completing this program, students will not only gain a thorough grounding in social anthropology but also develop a global perspective and essential skills for engaging with complex social issues. Whether interested in pursuing postgraduate study or entering the workforce directly, students will be equipped to analyze and contribute to understanding the social dimensions of human life in diverse settings worldwide.

Detailed Course Facts

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

• English

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

SE309 - Violence and Conflict in the Contemporary World

You have the opportunity to select wild modules in this stage

Stage 2

Possible modules may include:

SE586 - Ethnographies 1

SE587 - Ethnographies 2

SE588 - Advanced Social Anthropology I

SE589 - Advanced Social Anthropology II

Stage 3

Possible modules may include:

SE596 - Theoretical Perspectives in Social Anthropology

SE597 - Theoretical Topics in Social Anthropology

SE591 - Southern Mediterranean Societies: Mashriq andMaghreb

SE592 - The Ethnography of Central Asian Societies

SE547 - South East Asian Societies

SE601 - European Societies

SE579 - The Anthropology of Amazonia

SE584 - The Anthropology of Business

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

SE752 - Anthropology of Creativity

SE534 - Special Project in Social Anthropology

SE542 - Human Ecology

SE549 - The Anthropology of Health, Illness and Medicine

SE550 - The Anthropology of Gender

SE551 - Anthropology and Language

SE552 - Culture and Cognition

SE554 - Visual Anthropology Theory

SE555 - Project in Visual Anthropology

SE556 - Social Sciences in the Classroom

SE565 - Sex Evolution and Human Nature

SE573 - Ethnicity and Nationalism

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

SE593 - Evolution of Human Diversity

SE594 - Anthropology and Development

SE595 - Social Computing

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

Requirements

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.

• A level: ABB excluding General Studies/Critical Thinking

• 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 Higher Level.

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.

Social Anthropology at the University of Kent offers students a comprehensive exploration of human societies, cultures, and social structures from a comparative perspective. The programme combines theoretical frameworks with empirical research, enabling students to analyze social phenomena across different contexts. Students have the opportunity to study a broad range of topics, including kinship, religion, politics, economy, and identity, gaining a deep understanding of how human communities develop and function.

The programme is designed to develop critical thinking, research skills, and cross-cultural understanding, preparing graduates for careers in sectors such as NGOs, international development, cultural heritage, and policy analysis, or for postgraduate study. Students benefit from Kent's strong links with international communities and organizations, providing practical insights and fieldwork opportunities. The curriculum includes both lecture-based learning and practical assignments, encouraging active participation and experiential learning.

Fieldwork is a significant component of the degree, allowing students to undertake ethnographic research, either locally or abroad, to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. The faculty comprises experienced anthropologists who are actively engaged in research, offering students guidance and mentorship. The programme also emphasizes the importance of ethical research practices, including considerations of cultural sensitivity and social responsibility.

The course is typically structured over three years for full-time students, with options for part-time study. Students can choose to specialise in particular areas of social anthropology or pursue an interdisciplinary approach, tailoring the programme to their interests and career goals. Throughout their studies, students are encouraged to develop a global perspective, understanding social dynamics in diverse cultural environments.

Graduates of the programme have successfully found employment in diverse areas such as community development, heritage management, research consultancy, and international organizations. The programme also provides a solid foundation for further academic pursuits, including master's and doctoral studies. Engaging with contemporary social issues and fostering a nuanced understanding of cultural diversity are core aims of the course, preparing students to become informed global citizens and professionals.