Course summary

An undergraduate BA Social Anthropology degree at the University of Birmingham will enable you to understand and analyse the contemporary world in all its variety. Explore alternative perspectives on today’s major topics and learn to question established norms and assumptions. Through cross-cultural comparison and in-depth study of particular societies and communities you will broaden your views on topics such as migration, marginality, religious coexistence and gender and sexuality. Our degree will equip you with a grounding in social and cultural theory and provide opportunities for you to put your knowledge into practice through your own research projects. This practical focus begins from the first year, when you will have the opportunity to apply an anthropological lens to the dynamic city of Birmingham, the UK's most ethnically-diverse city. In the second year of the course, you will undertake more systematic and applied research methods training, leading up to an individual dissertation project in your final year. Why study this course? You will get taught by a team of world-renowned academics - Our teaching staff are committed to long term, on the ground, research on matters of global importance. 100% of research published by academic staff in the Department was recently rated “world leading” or “internationally excellent” (Area Studies, Research Excellence Framework 2021). Take your knowledge abroad - All Social Anthropology students are eligible for the University's Study Abroad scheme, which turns their degree into a four-year course. In recent years, students from our Department have studied in Australia, Austria, Jamaica, Malaysia, Thailand and the USA. A head start in the graduate market - Alongside practical research experience, you will gain critical and transferable skills that open up a broad range of career opportunities. You can also take advantage of our work-based placements and employability focused modules available to all our students. A supportive environment - You will receive personalised support on coursework and feedback. The relatively small size of the department means that you will get to know your academics on a personal level. A rich and vibrant student community - Enjoy access to a student experience team who co-ordinate performances, talks, trips, podcasts, quizzes and celebrations. In recent years, for example, our first years have enjoyed a Sudanese food evening and second and third years have gone on trips to the Liverpool Slavery Museum, the V&A in London, and the Pitt Rivers Museum in Oxford. Top 15 for Anthropology in the Complete University Guide 2025 Top 25 Anthropology and Archaeology in the Guardian League Table 2024