BA (Hons) Anthropology and International Development

Program Overview

The BA (Hons) Anthropology and International Development at the University of Sussex offers an interdisciplinary approach to understanding global development issues through the lens of anthropology. This program blends theoretical and practical insights into social, economic, and political processes, exploring how global development shapes and is shaped by local cultures and practices. Students gain a deep understanding of human societies, cultural differences, and development policies, which are essential for addressing contemporary global challenges such as poverty, inequality, and environmental sustainability. The program’s focus on both anthropology and international development provides students with the analytical tools necessary to critically evaluate development practices and policies in a rapidly changing world.

Curriculum: The curriculum of the BA (Hons) Anthropology and International Development program is designed to offer a balanced mix of core modules and optional courses, allowing students to explore key topics in both fields. In the first year, students are introduced to foundational subjects like "Introduction to Anthropology" and "Global Development," which provide a strong grounding in social theory, human behavior, and development studies. The second and third years delve deeper into specialized areas such as "Development and Globalization," "Anthropology of Development," and "Sociology of Global Inequality." Students also have the opportunity to choose from a range of electives, enabling them to tailor their studies to their interests in areas like gender and development, human rights, and environmental sustainability. The program includes practical research projects, fieldwork opportunities, and a final-year dissertation, which encourages students to engage in independent research and critical analysis.

Research Focus: The University of Sussex is renowned for its research in anthropology and international development, with faculty members contributing to cutting-edge work in areas such as global inequality, migration, environmental change, and social justice. The research focus of the program is interdisciplinary, allowing students to engage with diverse topics including development economics, political anthropology, and the impacts of globalization on indigenous communities. The program’s emphasis on research ensures that students benefit from current debates and methodologies in both anthropology and development studies. Students are encouraged to participate in research projects, gaining firsthand experience in data collection, analysis, and academic writing.

Industry Engagement: The University of Sussex has strong links with international NGOs, government agencies, and development organizations, which enhance students' opportunities for industry engagement. The program provides opportunities for internships, placements, and volunteering in organizations working on development projects around the world. These placements give students valuable practical experience, allowing them to apply their academic learning in real-world settings. Students also benefit from career workshops, networking events, and the opportunity to connect with professionals from the fields of international development, policy analysis, and global humanitarian work. This engagement with the industry helps students build connections and gain a competitive edge in the job market.

Global Perspective: The BA (Hons) Anthropology and International Development program at Sussex is designed to provide a global perspective on development. The program examines both local and global dimensions of development, exploring how international policies and practices interact with local cultural contexts. Students benefit from a curriculum that is global in its outlook, focusing on issues such as the impacts of colonialism, human rights, sustainable development, and the role of international organizations in shaping global development agendas. Additionally, students are encouraged to undertake fieldwork or study abroad experiences, allowing them to gain direct experience of development issues in diverse cultural settings. This global perspective enhances students’ understanding of the interconnectedness of contemporary global challenges and prepares them for careers in international development.