Anthropology

Anthropology not only studies humans and societies from cultural, social, and historical perspectives, but also helps us deeply understand the diversity and evolution of the world.

As a bridge between academic research and practical application, the Anthropology major is increasingly becoming a popular choice for young people passionate about exploring humanity and society.

Anthropology Program Introduction

The Master's Program in Anthropology aims to cultivate international talents with solid professional foundations and innovative thinking. Students are expected to be capable of conducting scientific research, serving national strategies and social development needs, and contributing to the advancement of anthropology as a discipline and the progress of society.

Educational Objectives

This program is committed to training high-level professionals in the field of cultural anthropology. Graduates should possess a strong theoretical foundation, an international comparative research perspective, and the ability to conduct independent academic research. 

They should also be capable of applying professional theories and methodologies in various practical scenarios to analyze real-world problems and support policy decision-making.

Major enrollment fields include Urban Anthropology, Medical Anthropology, Business and Technology Anthropology, among others.

Who is Suitable for This Major?

The Anthropology major is particularly suitable for students who:

• Have a passion for exploring human cultural, social, and historical diversity
• Possess strong analytical and synthetic thinking skills, and can ask insightful questions
• Enjoy field research and are willing to work in new and different environments
• Aspire to build careers in research, education, community development, international communication, or NGOs
• Have good communication skills, cultural sensitivity, and an open-minded attitude towards differences

Study Mode and Duration

• Standard duration: 3 years
• Study arrangement: Coursework in the first two years; social research and thesis writing in the third year
• Learning mode: Supervisor-responsible system with a guidance group composed of 3-5 members, including professors or associate professors and international experts in related fields

Curriculum

(*Courses marked with an asterisk are elective courses.)

The total credit requirement is 35 credits, covering public degree courses, fundamental degree courses, specialized degree courses, and elective courses.

Professional Practice

• Each student must host and participate in at least one graduate academic seminar, deliver one academic presentation, and serve as a reviewer once.
• Students are required to complete 1-2 months of social survey or fieldwork during their studies.
• Students must publish at least one paper in a core academic journal in China before graduation.

Training Method

• Supervisor group-based training model
• Combination of theoretical coursework and practical research
• Emphasis on academic writing and independent research capability development

Research Directions

• Community Culture and Its Transformation
• Economic Anthropology
• Historical Anthropology
• Ethnic Anthropology
• Linguistic Anthropology
• Urban Anthropology
• Environmental Anthropology

Degree Award

Upon completion of the required credits and successful defense of the thesis, students who meet the degree conferral requirements will be awarded the Master of Law degree after the evaluation by the university’s Degree Assessment Committee.

Career Development

Graduates may pursue careers in:

• Research institutes or universities engaged in social anthropology research and teaching
• Government agencies in ethnic affairs, cultural development, religious affairs, and publicity departments
• Editing, journalism, and publishing positions at various newspapers, magazines, and publishing houses
• International organizations and NGOs focusing on cross-cultural communication and social research

Related Majors

• Sociology
• Folklore Studies
• Public Anthropology / Applied Anthropology
• Medical Anthropology
• Historical Anthropology

Leading Universities in This Field in China

1. Sun Yat-sen University
2. Peking University
3. Xiamen University
4. Shandong University
5. Yunnan Minzu University

Evaluation of the Anthropology Major

The Master's Program in Anthropology in China is recognized for its solid theoretical foundation, diverse research methods, and emphasis on combining theory with fieldwork practice. It focuses on training students with deep analytical abilities to understand cultural and social phenomena and the competence to apply their knowledge to solve real-world problems.

In the context of accelerating globalization, there is a growing demand for experts who have profound understanding of culture, society, and ethnology, especially in international organizations, multinational companies, development agencies, and policy research institutions. 

Choosing Anthropology means developing strong cross-cultural adaptability, interdisciplinary analytical skills, and global thinking—qualities that are highly valued in the 21st century.

The above provides an overview of the Master’s program in Anthropology. Visit the “Major Search” section to explore more details about study programs in China!

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