BA (Hons) Anthropology

The BA (Hons) Anthropology at Sussex is structured to provide a solid foundation in anthropological theory and practice. Students engage with core modules such as "Making Sense of Humanity," "Practising Anthropology," and "The Anthropological Imagination" in the first year, progressing to advanced topics like "Key Debates in Contemporary Anthropology" and "Religion, Ritual & Global Transformation" in subsequent years. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary learning, allowing students to select electives from various disciplines to tailor their education to personal interests and career goals. Additionally, opportunities for fieldwork and independent research projects are integral components of the curriculum.

Curriculum: The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking and analytical skills. In the first year, students are introduced to foundational concepts and methodologies in anthropology. As they advance, the curriculum explores complex themes such as economic precarity, racial injustice, and the anthropology of kinship. The inclusion of modules like "Ethnographic Film" and "Visual Anthropology" reflects the department's commitment to innovative teaching methods. Students also have the flexibility to choose from a diverse range of optional modules, enabling them to specialize in areas that align with their interests. ​

Research Focus: Sussex's Anthropology department is renowned for its research excellence, ranking 7th in the UK for anthropology in the 2021 Research Excellence Framework (REF). Faculty members are engaged in cutting-edge research addressing contemporary global challenges, including climate change, health inequalities, and social justice. Students benefit from this research-driven environment, gaining exposure to the latest anthropological studies and methodologies. ​

Industry Engagement: The program emphasizes practical experience and career readiness. Students have access to a range of career services, including internships, community consultancy projects, and insight visits to organizations such as Brighton & Hove Albion Football Club and Gatwick Airport. The university's Career Lab offers personalized coaching to help students identify career goals, enhance employability skills, and prepare for interviews. Graduates have pursued careers in NGOs, media, international development, and journalism, among other fields.

Global Perspective: The BA (Hons) Anthropology program at Sussex offers a global perspective through opportunities for study abroad and exposure to diverse cultural contexts. Students can apply to study at partner universities worldwide, enriching their academic experience and broadening their understanding of global issues. Modules such as "Understanding Contemporary India" and "Political Ecology and Environmental Justice" further enhance the program's international outlook.

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 80% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.

English language proficiency:

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 5.5.
• TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 80.
• PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 59.
• Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.

The University of Sussex offers a range of scholarships and financial support for international students to help make studying in the UK more accessible. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, support for underrepresented groups, and the ambition to help students thrive in their studies.

Sussex International Scholarships: The University offers a range of scholarships specifically for international students, including the Sussex Excellence Scholarships.These awards typically cover a portion of the tuition fees and are available for students pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate degrees.

Specific Country Scholarships: The University also offers country-specific scholarships for students from particular regions, such as Africa, India, and China.These awards are often designed to make studying at Sussex more accessible for students from those regions.

The University of Sussex offers a robust platform for graduates of the BA (Hons) Anthropology program to pursue a wide array of career options. This multidisciplinary degree equips students with analytical, research, and communication skills that are highly valued across multiple industries. Graduates are well-prepared for roles in both the public and private sectors, with a strong emphasis on global challenges, social issues, and cultural understanding.

International Development: Graduates can work with NGOs, international organizations, and governments on projects that address issues such as poverty, inequality, and human rights. Anthropologists play a key role in designing and evaluating programs that are culturally sensitive and socially impactful.

Social Research: Many BA Anthropology graduates pursue careers as social researchers, working for research institutions, think tanks, or market research firms. Their expertise in qualitative research methods, including ethnography and participant observation, is valuable in collecting and analyzing data on various societal trends.

Cultural and Heritage Management: Graduates can contribute to preserving cultural heritage, working in museums, galleries, and archives. This field involves managing collections, curating exhibits, and engaging with communities to maintain cultural traditions and history.

Public Policy and Advocacy: With their strong understanding of societal structures and issues, anthropology graduates often move into policy-making roles or advocacy positions. They may work for governmental bodies, lobbying groups, or advocacy organizations focused on social justice, environmental concerns, or education reform.

Humanitarian Aid and Crisis Management: Anthropology graduates have the opportunity to join international humanitarian organizations, helping in disaster relief, refugee support, and conflict resolution. Their skills in understanding cultural contexts and human behaviors are crucial for effective intervention and support.

Media and Journalism: Anthropology graduates are equipped to engage in storytelling and investigative journalism, particularly in areas related to human rights, cultural practices, and social justice. They may work as reporters, documentary filmmakers, or editors, bringing anthropological insights to public media.

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): Many graduates enter the corporate sector, focusing on CSR initiatives. Their ability to assess social impacts and work with diverse cultural groups positions them well in companies looking to enhance their ethical standards and community involvement.

Education and Academia: For those inclined toward teaching and research, the anthropology degree provides a foundation for a career in academia. Graduates may become secondary school teachers or pursue postgraduate studies to teach at the university level or engage in research projects.

Human Resources (HR) and Organizational Development: The skills developed in understanding human behavior and social dynamics are highly transferable to HR roles, where graduates can work in employee relations, training, and development, particularly in international or culturally diverse organizations.

Environmental and Sustainability Roles: Graduates interested in environmental anthropology can pursue careers in sustainability, focusing on environmental justice, conservation, and the socio-cultural impacts of climate change. Their expertise is sought in NGOs, environmental consulting, and governmental agencies.