University of Massachusetts Amherst

What you'll study

This M.A. centres on ethnographic methods, theory and applied practice for analysing organisational life. Core seminar topics include organisational culture, the anthropology of work, ethnographic field methods, qualitative data analysis, and theories of power, identity and institutions. Students typically combine coursework with a supervised applied project or master's thesis that involves fieldwork inside organisations, companies, public agencies or non‑profit programmes.

• Core modules and themes: ethnographic method and practice; qualitative research design; organisational theory from an anthropological perspective; culture and institutions; ethics in applied anthropology.
• Applied and elective areas: workplace studies, management and leadership cultures, user and design research, policy and programme evaluation, labour and migration, technology and work, and comparative institutional ethnography.
• Research training: extensive training in participant observation, interview methods, discourse and interaction analysis, archival and documentary methods, and qualitative coding/analysis software.
• Structure: the programme combines seminars and methods workshops with independent research. Students may choose an applied capstone project working with an external partner or a traditional thesis supervised by department faculty.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution in anthropology or a related social science or humanities discipline. Admissions typically look for:

• A strong academic record in undergraduate studies.
• A statement of purpose outlining research interests, prior fieldwork or relevant practical experience, and how the programme supports career goals.
• Two or three academic or professional letters of recommendation.
• A writing sample that demonstrates analytical ability and familiarity with ethnographic or social research (for example, a final year essay, honours thesis, or a published article).
• Curriculum vitae detailing relevant research, employment, or volunteer experience.
• International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests unless exempt.

Note: GRE requirements vary by programme and applicant background; consult the department's admissions page for current guidance and any preparatory course or prerequisite expectations.

Career prospects

Graduates from the programme move into a range of applied and research roles where qualitative insight and ethnographic method are valued. Typical career pathways include:

• Organisational consultant or change management specialist, advising on culture, communication and workflow.
• User researcher, design ethnographer or UX researcher in technology, product design and service development.
• Human resources and talent development roles focused on organisational culture, inclusion and employee experience.
• Policy analyst, programme evaluator or researcher in government, NGOs and foundations.
• Market and consumer insight roles in private sector firms and consultancies.
• Academic progression to PhD study and careers in teaching and scholarly research.

The programme’s emphasis on fieldwork, applied projects and interdisciplinary collaboration equips graduates to translate ethnographic findings into actionable recommendations for organisations and policy makers.

Why study at University of Massachusetts Amherst

The Department of Anthropology at UMass Amherst is known for strong training in ethnographic methods and theoretical rigour, with faculty whose research spans workplace studies, political economy, medical and visual anthropology. Students benefit from small seminar groups, hands‑on methodological workshops and close supervision for independent research.

UMass Amherst’s campus supports interdisciplinary work across management, public policy, design and information science, providing opportunities to collaborate on applied projects and access to regional partner organisations in Western Massachusetts and the greater Boston area. The university’s research libraries and qualitative research resources support sustained archival and fieldwork projects, while career services and departmental networks help students secure internships and applied placements.