PhD Social Anthropology: The University of Manchester

Course description

Social Anthropology studies social and cultural diversity across the world. At Manchester, the department was founded in 1949 by Max Gluckman, and has since then developed strong national and international recognition for rigorous and innovative research and teaching. We are particularly known for their expertise in political and economic anthropology; anthropology of new technologies; visual and other sensory media; and the study of borders, place and space. Distinctively, many staff collaborate with other disciplines in their research, using anthropology's particular expertise to add a distinctive element to a range of different projects.

This programme involves substantial original research, normally including ethnographic fieldwork of 12 to 18 months and leading to the production of a thesis of up to 80,000 words. Throughout, students work closely with an expert supervisor, with further guidance from at least one extra supervisor.

Career opportunities

Many of their PhD graduates pursue academic careers. Others have gone on to work in development, NGOs, public services or the private sector.

Entry requirements

Academic entry qualification overview:

Applicants for the PhD are expected to have a UK Masters degree (or overseas equivalent) in social anthropology, or a closely related field with a minimum overall average of 60%.

English language:

Applicants whose first language is not English must attain one of the following:

• IELTS - Overall 7, writing score  7
• TOEFL - Overall 623, TWE 5 (PBT)
• TOEFL - Overall 263, TWE 5 (CBT).  This test is no longer available but results less than 2 years old can be submitted.
• TOEFL  - Overall 100, with 25 in each of the 4 sections (IBT)

Applicants with scores below their requirements may be eligible to attend one of their pre-sessional English courses.  Duration will be confirmed when an official result has been received.

Exemption to the requirements is at the discretion of the School.  Applicants who have been taught and assessed in English on previous degrees may still be required to show proof of English proficiency via TOEFL/IELTS.

TOEFL Certificates - please designate the University of Manchester as a recipient of your result.  The code is 0757.  Results must come directly from ETS (TOEFL).