Course description
I feel very lucky to be here, I’ve really enjoyed both semesters and all my lecturers have been amazing.
The lecturers always make time and seem really interested in having an honest academic conversation, I’ve had my viewpoints challenged and been set onto a more anthropological way of thinking.
Thomas Webb-Riley / MA Social Anthropology
From migration and inequality to health and what it means to be human, the world’s most complex global challenges demand anthropological thinking. By studying our MA in Public and Applied Anthropology, you will develop the theoretical grounding and research skills to understand people's lived experiences and contribute to real-world solutions.
You will engage with classic and cutting-edge anthropological debates, framed as theoretical and methodological tools for social engagement, collaboration, and transformation. As one of the largest social anthropology departments in one of the most vibrant and diverse cities in the UK, there’s no shortage of topics you could cover.
Our innovative course is taught by expert academics, both with practical experience in the field and a real passion for enhancing your learning experience.
From day one, you'll be working with ethnographic research methods. Our core course units will equip you to understand and apply anthropological theory and qualitative methods to contemporary social issues, through individual and group activities. Your dissertation is your opportunity to develop original research on a question that matters to you.
You can also to tailor your course to fit your interests with an array of optional units.
Throughout your studies you’ll benefit from personalised support, allowing you to develop transferable skills in research, critical enquiry, and creative thinking. You will graduate with the skills and experience you need for a successful career in a variety of sectors.
Special features
A prestigious department
Manchester is one of the world’s best institutions for the study and practice of social anthropology. Whilst studying with us, you’ll work alongside expert researchers operating across five continents. Our staff conducts fieldwork from Arctic communities to Latin America, from post-conflict Africa to outer space. Your teaching is informed directly by this specialist knowledge.
Real-world impact
We put theory into practice. Our students and academics are making a difference on the global stage across multiple sectors. For example, our research has provided crucial insight at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, to British Nuclear Fuels on the decommissioning of nuclear power plants, and to anti-racist organisations and artists in Latin America.
Put the theory into practice
Design and lead your own ethnographic research project, supported by specialists whose work is actively shaping policy, business, and cultural understanding globally.
Course unit details
A master’s degree is formed of 180 credits.
On the MA Public and Applied Anthropology, there are seven mandatory course units, as well as a compulsory research component worth 60 credits. Your compulsory research component will take the form of a 12,000-word Advanced Anthropology Capstone: Dissertation or Applied Project.
You will also choose optional course units worth 15 credits each.
The availability of individual optional course units may be subject to change. Information that is sent to you in August about registration onto the course will clearly state the course units that are available in the academic year ahead.
Part-time students
Part-time students take four out of the five compulsory course units in the first year and then take the other one in year two. The remaining 60 credits of optional course units are selected and taken accordingly over the two years.