Social Anthropology

The MSc in Social Anthropology aims to provide a strong background in analytical and methodological issues in the subject, and practice in the critical evaluation of its sources, both in the library and in the context of fieldwork.

In part one of the MSc, which ends in June, you will produce coursework for some papers and prepare for at least one sat exam; there will be both core papers and options. Over the ensuing summer, as part two of the degree, you will then prepare a 10,000-word dissertation, for submission usually in late August (subject to confirmation). 

During the preparatory phase for the dissertation you may discuss your topic with your supervisor, but the actual writing of the dissertation is not supervised.

Teaching is by a mixture of lectures, classes (especially for the options) and tutorials.

1. Academic ability

Proven and potential academic excellence

Applicants are normally expected to be predicted or have achieved a first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours (or equivalent international qualifications), as a minimum, in any discipline. Under the UK system, applicants should have a minimum of 65% in at least one prior degree.

For applicants with a degree from the USA, the minimum GPA sought is 3.7 out of 4.0.

No Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or GMAT scores are sought.

2. English language requirement

Higher level

3. SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS

• Three references (letters of recommendation)
• Official transcript(s) of previous university-level degrees
• CV/résumé
• Personal statement: Two to three pages
• Written work: Two essays of 2,000 words each

• Clarendon Scholarships. This unique scheme offers around 140 new, fully-funded scholarships each year to academically outstanding graduate students, as well as providing a lively and stimulating community of scholars.
• Hill Foundation Scholarships. The Hill Foundation Scholarships fund Russian students to study for full-time graduate courses in any subject at Oxford. The Hill Foundation is a charity which aims to create a community of Oxford scholars and alumni who will work to improve Russian life and culture.The scholarship will cover 100% of University and college fees and a grant for living costs (of at least £14,296). Awards are made for the full duration of your fee liability for the agreed course.