Social Anthropology (Online)

The MA Social Anthropology (Online) explores how anthropologists understand cultural difference through theory, debate, and ethnographic practice.

The programme provides a strong foundation in the history and development of anthropology, and the discipline’s approach to understanding cultural difference and diversity. You'll develop skills in research design, ethnographic writing, communication and analysis, while examining how anthropology engages with pressing global challenges.

Delivered fully online through six modules, the course moves from core anthropological perspectives to advanced research methods, optional interdisciplinary study, and culminates in an independently designed ethnographic dissertation. Graduates will be able to apply anthropological thinking across different industries, organisations, and communities.

Studying at SOAS

We're ranked 6th in the UK and 19th in the world for Anthropology and 10th in the world for Academic Reputation in Anthropology (QS World University Rankings 2026). SOAS Anthropology is also ranked 2nd among UK Anthropology departments (REF 2021).

Study Tours

All postgraduate students can take part in our Study Tours and explore the world. Destinations include New Delhi, Lahore, Seoul, Luang Prabang, Almaty, Bishkek, Kigali, Johannesburg, and Doha. For more information, see our Study Tours page.

Structure

You can study this programme either as an accelerated two-year part-time degree or a three-year part-time degree.

Two-year route (accelerated):

Year 1: 90 credits (three modules)

Year 2: 90 credits (three modules, including either a capstone dissertation or project)

Three-year route:

Year 1: 60 credits (two modules)

Year 2: 60 credits (two modules)

Year 3: 60 credits (two modules, including either a capstone dissertation or project)

Both routes are designed to build a strong foundation in your first year, followed by greater flexibility in later years, including optional modules and the opportunity to complete a capstone dissertation or applied project.