The Ethnology programme at the University of Basel focuses on how people make meaning in everyday life and how societies are shaped by politics, culture, migration and social change. Teaching and research draw especially on regions such as Africa and Oceania, with strong emphasis on ethnographic methods, visual culture and medical anthropology.
- Level: Bachelor’s programme
- Subject focus: Ethnology / social and cultural anthropology
- Regional emphasis: Africa (West, Central, East), Oceania (especially Melanesia), Latin America and Southeast Asia
- Teaching approach: Theory + ethnographic methods, seminars and research-oriented learning
- Language of instruction: Not specified in the provided record (please confirm with the university)
- Duration / credits: Not specified in the provided record (please confirm with the university)
- Tuition fees: Not specified in the provided record
- Start dates / application deadlines: Not specified in the provided record
Programme Structure
The bachelor’s programme combines foundational theory with research training and guided ethnographic work. Modules develop your understanding of ethnology’s intellectual traditions and equip you with practical skills for qualitative field research.
Core modules (as listed in the record)
- Module: Theory and General Anthropology
- Module: Research Skills in Social and Cultural Anthropology
- Module: Ethnographic Research with Field Trip
Typical learning components
- Theory foundations: key debates and approaches in ethnology (e.g., evolutionism, structuralism, and methodological discussions around field research)
- Topical seminars: themes such as urbanization, culture, law, gender, and other contemporary research fields
- Regional ethnographies: comparative study of social groups and social milieus across selected regions
- Research practice: planning and conducting ethnographic work, analysing qualitative materials, and presenting results
Note: The provided record lists core modules but does not specify the full semester-by-semester course plan, elective options, or the exact credit distribution. Please confirm details with the University of Basel programme handbook.
Academic requirements
Specific GRE/GMAT requirements are not applicable for this programme. GPA grading scores are not listed in the provided record.
Admission to study at the University of Basel follows the Rectorate’s admission guidelines and the university’s regulations for the relevant academic year.
English requirements
TOEFL
IBT
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IELTS
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Other requirements
General requirements
- Admission is handled according to the Rectorate’s admission guidelines and the university’s international and inter-university rules for the relevant academic year.
Post-study work permit (Switzerland): Graduates may be eligible to apply for a residence permit for employment after completing their degree in Switzerland. Eligibility and the exact permit type depend on your study programme, your employment offer, and your personal circumstances.
Typical eligibility conditions:
- You must have completed a recognised qualification in Switzerland.
- You generally need a job offer that matches your qualification and meets Swiss labour market requirements.
- Applications are usually submitted through the relevant cantonal authorities (Switzerland is canton-based for many immigration procedures).
- Some rules may differ depending on your nationality and the canton where you live.
Duration: If approved, the work permit/residence permit is commonly granted for a limited period and may be extended if you remain employed and continue to meet the requirements.
Important: Immigration rules can change. For the most accurate guidance, check the latest information from Swiss authorities and the University of Basel’s international office before applying.
