University of Adelaide

What you'll study

The Anthropology major introduces students to theories and methods for studying human societies, belief systems, material culture and social change. Core subjects typically cover anthropological theory, ethnographic methods, cultural and social anthropology, and Indigenous studies, alongside elective units in areas such as medical anthropology, visual anthropology, economic anthropology, migration and diasporas, and the archaeology of past societies.

The degree is delivered as part of the Bachelor of Arts structure. You will combine Anthropology units with other arts subjects to form a major and may take minors or electives across humanities and social sciences. Study options usually include:

• Foundations of anthropological theory and the history of the discipline
• Qualitative research methods and fieldwork practice, including participant observation and interviewing
• Units on Indigenous knowledge systems, cultural heritage and ethics
• Thematic units such as health, kinship, religion, material culture, consumption and urban anthropology
• Applied anthropology topics such as policy, development, human rights and museum studies

Students with strong performance may be eligible to continue into an honours year, which involves a supervised research project and advanced coursework in anthropological methods and theory.

Entry requirements

Admission to the Bachelor of Arts generally requires successful completion of secondary education or an equivalent qualification and meeting the University of Adelaide's general entry standards for undergraduate study. Applicants are assessed on academic results; mature-age and pathway applicants may be considered on the basis of prior tertiary study, work experience or other recognised preparation.

Subject prerequisites are minimal for the BA, but competence in English is expected. International applicants are required to demonstrate English language proficiency through an accepted test or equivalent qualification. Specific entry pathways, bridging programs and credit for prior learning are available—check the University for the details that apply to your situation.

Career prospects

Graduates with a major in Anthropology develop analytical, research and communication skills valued across many sectors. Typical career directions include:

• Community development and advocacy roles with NGOs, Indigenous organisations and social service agencies
• Cultural heritage, museum and archive work, including curation and collections management
• Government and policy positions dealing with multicultural affairs, social policy, and Indigenous liaison
• Research assistant and fieldwork positions in academic, environmental and health research projects
• Private-sector roles in user research, market research, corporate social responsibility and consulting

Graduates also use the BA as a pathway to further study in anthropology, archaeology, sociology, public policy, law and related postgraduate professional qualifications.

Why study at University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide offers anthropology teaching informed by active research across cultural, Indigenous and applied themes. Students benefit from engagement with staff who undertake fieldwork regionally and internationally, and from links with local cultural institutions, museums and Indigenous communities in South Australia.

The BA is flexible, allowing you to combine Anthropology with other disciplines to build a tailored study profile. Practical learning is emphasised through research methods training and opportunities for placements or field schools. Studying in Adelaide also provides access to a compact city with a vibrant arts scene, government agencies and community organisations where students can gain practical experience.