Master in Anthropology by Top Schools

Anthropology is a dynamic and interdisciplinary field that delves into the study of human societies, cultures, behaviors, and the evolution of our species. Those who pursue a Master’s in Anthropology often engage with complex questions about the diversity of human life and aim to understand the cultural, social, and historical factors that shape human existence. With numerous career paths available, ranging from academia to fieldwork, museums, international development, and beyond, many students seek specialized training that combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills. To this end, several leading universities offer robust Master's in Anthropology programs that equip students with the tools to succeed in these diverse fields. Below is a look at some of the top institutions offering these programs.

The University of Maryland (US) is renowned for its Master of Applied Anthropology (M.A.A.) program, which provides a unique focus for those seeking careers outside academia while also offering pathways for students who wish to continue their studies toward a Ph.D. The M.A.A. program emphasizes practical and applied anthropology, making it an ideal choice for those interested in working in diverse fields such as public health, environmental sustainability, international development, and cultural resource management. As part of the Consortium of Practicing and Applied Anthropology Programs (COPAA), the University of Maryland offers students the opportunity to engage with professionals and practitioners in the field. The program is designed to produce well-rounded anthropologists who can apply theoretical concepts to real-world problems, preparing them for impactful roles in non-academic settings. This approach is especially attractive for those who want to see their academic learning directly influence policy, practice, and communities.

Brandeis University (US) is another prominent institution offering a Master’s in Anthropology, providing an excellent academic foundation for students seeking advanced studies in social and cultural anthropology. The anthropology department at Brandeis is known for its geographical strengths in regions such as Latin America, North America, Africa, East Asia, and South Asia, and it offers a wealth of research opportunities in these areas. Brandeis stands out for its interdisciplinary approach, combining anthropology with gender and women’s studies. It is one of the few universities in the world offering a joint M.A. in Anthropology and Women's and Gender Studies, allowing students to engage with critical social issues while developing expertise in both fields. The flexibility of this program allows students to focus on specialized topics such as gender, sexuality, race, and ethnicity, and how these intersect with the broader themes of anthropology.

Australian National University (ANU) offers a comprehensive Master in Anthropology degree through its College of Arts and Social Sciences. ANU is known for its strong research output and academic rigor, and this program is designed for those who wish to pursue a professional career or continue with further academic study in anthropology. ANU’s Master’s program is particularly appealing to students who want a solid academic preparation that aligns with the research needs and policy demands of modern societies. The university's global perspective and the diversity of research opportunities offered in the field of anthropology make it an ideal destination for both Australian and international students. ANU’s strong focus on research methodology, combined with fieldwork opportunities, ensures that graduates are well-prepared for a range of careers, from cultural consultancy and international development to academia and social research.

The University of British Columbia (UBC) in Canada offers the Master of Arts in Anthropology (MA), which emphasizes a combination of coursework, research, and a thesis. This flexible program allows students to concentrate on specific areas of anthropology, including socio-cultural anthropology (with subfields such as medical and linguistic anthropology), anthropological archaeology, and museum and visual anthropology. UBC’s anthropology program is known for its innovative research and teaching, consistently ranking among the top in Canada and globally. With its focus on both theoretical foundations and practical research applications, UBC prepares students for a wide array of career paths, including academic positions, cultural heritage management, museum work, and policy analysis. The program encourages students to approach anthropological questions from multiple perspectives, fostering interdisciplinary engagement across fields such as history, sociology, and environmental studies.

In the United Kingdom, University College London (UCL) stands out as a leader in the field of anthropology. UCL’s M.Res. in Anthropology is recognized as a research-training Master’s program by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC), making it a highly attractive option for students interested in pursuing doctoral studies or careers in research. The M.Res. is designed to offer students a robust foundation in research methods, preparing them for independent work in diverse anthropological subfields. UCL also offers related programs such as the MSc in Anthropology, Environment and Development, MA in Material and Visual Culture, and MSc in Human Evolution and Behaviour, all of which cater to specialized interests within the field. UCL’s anthropology department is one of only two in the UK to achieve the top score of 5* in the Research Assessment Exercise (RAE 2001), reflecting the university's high academic standards and research excellence. Students at UCL benefit from the opportunity to work with leading scholars in the field and from the rich cultural and research environment that London provides.

One of the key advantages of pursuing a Master's in Anthropology is the flexibility it offers in terms of career options. Graduates of these programs often pursue careers in fields such as international development, public policy, social research, education, and cultural heritage management. The research and methodological training provided by these programs is invaluable in preparing students for roles in these diverse areas. The practical focus of applied anthropology programs, such as those at the University of Maryland and UBC, ensures that students gain hands-on experience and are well-equipped to make meaningful contributions to real-world issues.

In addition to these applied programs, many anthropology graduate degrees offer the opportunity to specialize in particular subfields, such as medical anthropology, linguistic anthropology, or environmental anthropology. For instance, the University of British Columbia’s emphasis on socio-cultural anthropology and UCL’s offerings in material and visual culture provide students with the chance to delve into specific areas of interest that intersect with global challenges such as health disparities, migration, and environmental sustainability.

The global perspective provided by institutions like ANU and Brandeis University further enhances the value of an anthropology degree, as students engage with diverse cultures and research topics that are critical in today’s interconnected world. The ability to study anthropology through the lens of specific geographical regions, such as East Asia or Latin America, also gives students a deeper understanding of the unique socio-cultural issues facing different communities around the world.

Overall, pursuing a Master’s in Anthropology at one of these prestigious institutions offers students the opportunity to gain advanced knowledge, practical skills, and research expertise needed to succeed in an increasingly complex world. Whether students are drawn to the applied aspects of anthropology or wish to focus on theoretical and research-oriented pursuits, the programs offered by institutions like the University of Maryland, Brandeis University, ANU, UBC, and UCL provide a comprehensive and flexible education that is well-respected worldwide. Graduates of these programs are well-positioned to make significant contributions to the understanding of human societies, cultures, and behaviors, whether in academia, the public sector, or the private sphere.