Anthropology is the study of humankind. If you are interested in people, our shared history, way of work, international relations and languages, then a UK degree in Anthropology might be the subject you are looking for.
A UK degree in Anthropology will provide you with a unique set of skills. You will gain a deep understanding of human society, contemporary cultural and ethnic differences, and learn different perspectives in a social, political and economic context. These transferable skills will open up many different career paths.
Many UK universities offer anthropology degrees, but selected institutions excel. Factors that go into a university performing well include graduate prospects, industry connections and student satisfaction scores, and you can learn more about the top five UK universities (Guardian University Guide 2021) to study an anthropology related degree below.
If you have any questions about studying an anthropology course in the UK, do not hesitate to arrange a free consultation with SI-UK London today.
Top Five UK Universities for Anthropology
1. University of Oxford
The University of Oxford is the best university on the planet (Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2021) and also the oldest in the English speaking world (founded 1096). Over 150,000 Oxford graduates live and work on every continent, whilst Oxford academics’ research "spans the globe and tackles many issues of worldwide interest."
The Institute of Social & Cultural Anthropology at Oxford is amongst the best in Europe, having established excellent standards of research and teaching, and Oxford students enjoy substantial support for international internships, study abroad exchange programmes and independent research.
What the University say: “Human Sciences is an interdisciplinary degree course which enables students to study humans from multiple interconnecting perspectives across the biological and social sciences.”
- Course to consider: BA (Hons) Human Sciences
2. Queens' University Belfast
Queen’s University Belfast is the ninth oldest university in the UK and is a member of the Russell Group, combining excellence in research and education with a student-centred ethos. As a centre of excellence, Queen’s has been awarded the Queen’s Anniversary Prize seven times, one of the highest honours awarded to higher and further education institutions in the UK.
Based in the heart of Belfast, Queen’s currently has over 3,000 international students from 05 different countries enrolled and is ranked 25th in the world for international outlook (THE World University Rankings 2021).
What the University say: “Through classroom modules, optional placements, performance ensembles and your own anthropological fieldwork, you will also gain valuable skills in critical thinking, cross-cultural understanding, researching, interviewing, writing, and presenting.”
- Course to consider: BA (Hons) Anthropology
3. University of St Andrews
The University of St Andrews is Scotland’s best university and is currently 2nd overall in the UK (Guardian Good University Guide 2021).
The Times Good University Guide named St Andrews its University of the Year for 2020, whilst the Teaching Excellence Framework awarded the University Gold for "exemplary" teaching. St Andrews also has a number of opportunities for undergraduate students to spend a full academic year studying abroad, further broadening horizons.
What the University say: “Regular research seminars, organised by the Department of Anthropology and its research centres, include invited speakers of international standing. These seminars, along with distinguished visiting professors who are appointed from time to time, enrich the exciting research environment of the Department.”
- Course to consider: Social Anthropology MA (Hons)
4. London School of Economics
The London School of Economics and Political Science is a world class institution which specialises in the teaching of economics, politics, law, sociology and anthropology. LSE boasts association with many Nobel winners and world leaders.
What the University say: “LSE Anthropology offers a dynamic and engaged research culture with a strong commitment to teaching and to promoting an inclusive environment. We combine innovative research in the unfolding contemporary world with maintenance of the core anthropological traditions.”
- Course to consider: BA Social Anthropology
5. University College London
University College London is ranked 10th in the world, a member of the elite Russell Group and is considered ‘London’s Global University’ - 53% of UCL students are international, creating a multicultural and friendly environment.
The UCL Anthropology department is one of the foremost in the world (6th in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2021) with undergraduate, postgraduate taught and graduate research programmes all available.
What the University say: "UCL Anthropology is composed of four sub-sections including Biological Anthropology, Social Anthropology, Material Culture and Medical Anthropology offering a broad range of degrees to students from all over the world and with a variety of educational backgrounds."
- Course to consider: Anthropology BSc
Study a UK Anthropology Degree
If you need further advice about what is required to study an anthropology degree in the UK, arrange a free consultation with SI-UK London today.