Explore what it is to be human
 

Social anthropology is the study of all peoples everywhere. It explores human social and cultural diversity: the amazingly varied ways that people live, think and relate to each other in every part of the world.

If you are interested in studying your own and other people's cultures, societies and economies, how they differ and what they have in common, social anthropology is the subject for you. 

Anthropologists gather this information through fieldwork. By living with communities all over the world, they immerse themselves in others’ daily lives, observe and learn to participate fully in their customs. The resulting in-depth descriptions are called ethnographies.

Anthropologists strive for a depth of cultural understanding that can unravel human complexities for others. Historians, sociologists, psychologists and philosophers all draw inspiration from anthropological writings. The subject has a major impact on the way we deal with cultural and political issues in the contemporary world.
 

A world-class education
 

Anthropology is one of the most exciting subjects to study at university today, and our Department is unmatched as a place to study it.

We combine world class teaching and resources with a friendly, intellectually challenging atmosphere. Year-on-year, we are recognised as one of the best universities for studying anthropology globally.

Cambridge has some of the best intellectual resources in the world, from people to libraries. While the University’s Colleges offer first-rate student support, accommodation and facilities to our undergraduates and postgraduates.

Everyone is part of a community that extends well beyond our Department.

What we offer