
Program description
Social Anthropology MRes
The MRes in Social Anthropology provides a firm foundation in the methods and methodologies of social anthropology and the human sciences, to serve as a basis for knowledgeable and skilled research in Social Anthropology.
The MRes in Social Anthropology is a full-time taught postgraduate program run by the Department of Social Anthropology within the School of Philosophical, Anthropological and Film Studies.
The program provides a general introduction to social anthropology at the postgraduate level, which includes enhancing existing anthropological knowledge and developing knowledge in those coming to anthropology for the first time. The MRes includes various social science components, research and methodology training, and core social anthropology teaching.
Admission requirements
- A good 2.1 Honours undergraduate degree. No previous anthropological experience is required. If you studied your first degree outside the UK, see the international entry requirements.
- English language proficiency.
The qualifications listed are indicative minimum requirements for entry. Some academic Schools will ask applicants to achieve significantly higher marks than the minimum. Obtaining the listed entry requirements will not guarantee you a place, as the University considers all aspects of every application including, where applicable, the writing sample, personal statement, and supporting documents.
For more information about admission requirements, please visit the university website.
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Compulsory modules
- The Anthropology of Connections
- Research Methods in Social Anthropology
Core social science training modules are listed below. These are required for recognition of the MRes by the ESRC as a doctoral pathway. They are optional for non-ESRC funded students.
- Being a Social Scientist
- Philosophy and Methodology of the Social Sciences
- Qualitative Methods in Social Research
- Quantitative Research in Social Science
Optional modules
Students choose two optional modules, taking one in each semester. For the latest optional module information, see the module catalogue.
Here is a sample of optional modules that may be offered.
- Being a Social Scientist
- Philosophy and Methodology of the Social Sciences
- Qualitative Methods in Social Research
- Quantitative Research in Social Science
- Anthropology, Art and Perception 1 or Anthropology, Art and Perception 2
- Anthropology of the Pacific 1 or Anthropology of the Pacific 2
- Special Subject (Latin American, Amerindian and Caribbean Studies)
Scholarships & funding
Several scholarship options are available. Please check the university website for more information.
Program delivery
Teaching methods include formal lectures combined with seminar style teaching and student-led group work. Lecture class sizes range from five to ten students and tutorial sizes range from two to six students.
Tuition fees
Continuing studies
Many graduates continue their education by enrolling in PhD programs at St Andrews or elsewhere. The Department of Social Anthropology offers PhD supervision across a diverse range of theoretical interests and topics.
Career opportunities
Social Anthropology graduates have characteristics many employers seek, and a Social Anthropology degree provides openings to a wide range of careers. Graduates have gained successful employment in areas such as:
- international policy
- journalism (BBC and The Independent)
- marketing
- teaching
- wildlife conservation
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About this institute

University of St Andrews
The University of St Andrews is Scotland’s first University. As a 600 year-old institution, we are known across the globe for our world leading quality and depth of research. For six centuries some of the world’s brightest and most promising...
Why study at University of St Andrews
The University of St Andrews is situated in a truly beautiful location. Part of a seaside town it is a picturesque and inspirational location to pursue your studies, where you will have the thinking space needed to be your very best. As a smaller university our size is one of our greatest strengths with class sizes allowing for a close and individual learning experience and giving great access and support from your teachers.
Graduates of St Andrews are highly sought after by employers around the world due to our reputation for excellence. A qualification from St Andrews will help you reach your ambitions and kickstart your career.
Consistently ranked as the best student academic experience in the UK by students in the National Student Survey, your time as a student in St Andrews will be unique and rewarding, leaving you with a prestigious qualification, but also memories and connections to treasure for years to come.
Contact info
University of St Andrews
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