Subject Areas

Anthropology degrees

Anthropology is the study of humans, human behaviour and societies, and is one of the most exciting, relevant and varied subjects you can study at university.

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Study Anthropology at the University of Exeter

At Exeter we have a contemporary approach grounded in numerous social settings and institutions, including NGOs, hospitals, Welsh farming communities, African wildlife centres, Hindu Ashrams, English multicultural neighbourhoods and warzones in the Middle East. You’ll benefit from access to the latest thinking and resources as your teachers contribute research to current debates.

Based in the Department of Sociology, Philosophy and Anthropology, our unique environment encourages a productive fusion of the three subjects. This creates cross-over research domains such as the field of music, aesthetics and cognition, which researchers with diverse disciplinary training pursue together

Our Anthropology degrees and courses

Our Anthropology degrees are taught on our Streatham Campus in Exeter.

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Top 10 in the UK for Anthropology

9th in The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026

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Top 5 in the Russell Group for student satisfaction

in five out of seven themes (National Student Survey 2025: Anthropology)

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Flexible programme giving you opportunities to explore other disciplines 

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The University of Exeter is 155th in the QS World University Rankings 2026 and 170th in the THE World Rankings 2026

Frequently asked questions about studying  Anthropology

We've answered some of our most frequently asked questions below to help you decide if an Anthropology degree is right for you.

What career prospects would I have with an Anthropology degree from Exeter?

A degree in Anthropology enables you to gain a deep understanding of the social, cultural and biological diversity of human populations, developing research skills, critical thinking and the ability to construct nuanced arguments. You will also gain valuable insights into the human condition, preparing you for a wide range of careers.

Exeter has an excellent reputation with graduate recruiters and a strong employment record. Many of our graduates are employed in discipline relevant roles in the UK and overseas including laboratory-based positions, conservation management, ecology, teaching and nursing. Others use the skills gained on their course to enter widely different career paths in law, business or management.

Find out more about a career with a degree in Anthropology.

Can international students apply for Anthropology degrees?

Yes. Our international student community is part of what makes Exeter a top worldwide university. International students are welcome to apply for Bachelors (undergraduate) and Masters (postgraduate taught) degrees with us, as well as for postgraduate research opportunities.

For more information, visit our international students webpages.

"The lecturers have really made me fall in love with my subject, especially as I had no prior experience of Anthropology. I’ve been incredibly grateful for my personal tutor who I’ve gone to over the years and the department as a whole is really supportive. I felt at ease during my year abroad in Australia knowing I could contact them when I needed them."

Izzy

Studying Anthropology with Study Abroad

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