For students who wish to conduct research that has an applied character aimed at solving problems or contributing understanding where this is directly needed, we offer the possibility to specialize in Applied Anthropology. In this kind of research, the methods and theories of anthropological research are used to provide insights and suggestions to practical problems with which non-anthropological parties such as governments, companies, NGOs or other organizations are confronted. Students carry out research in collaboration with such organizations. As part of answering their research questions students study the problem as well as the organization: an in-depth understanding of the organization’s interests, culture and morals is needed to understand how its members perceive the problem they want solved. Please note that the specialisation Applied Anthropology is only offered starting in September.
This specialization offers students a hands-on experience in arguing and displaying the value of their skills to a non-anthropologist and often non-academic audience. Students also learn how to present themselves as anthropological professionals to the world outside academia, and to employ creative ways to bring their Anthropological ideas across to uninformed people. Apart from this focus on actual problem solving, a student specializing in Applied Anthropology does what all anthropology students in the Master’s programme do: conducting a well prepared qualitative fieldwork that leads to an ethnographically rich and theoretically informed thesis.
As we have learned from experience, students prefer to choose their own research topics. That is why students who wish to participate in this specialization need to start thinking of the research project and the organization they wish to work with prior to the start of the programme. It can be very useful to already contact an organization before your start in the MSc programme Cultural and Social Anthropology.
The academic standards of this Master’s programme are rigorous and you are expected to demonstrate a high level of commitment, independence and resilience. You need to have strong interest in anthropology and a desire to learn how to write thorough analytical texts. You should also be able to demonstrate an anthropological orientation and have the ability to empathise with the perspective, emotions and ideas of other people. A high level of flexibility and self-reliance is essential for the successful completion of fieldwork.
The Master’s in Cultural and Social Anthropology is a broad, research-oriented programme which equips you with the necessary skills and competences for a future career in research or in the field. Furthermore, the University of Amsterdam, a major research university, offers a Master’s programme taught by one of the highest ranking geography departments in continental Europe. The Graduate School of Social Sciences (GSSS) of Amsterdam provides a vibrant and international academic community. The GSSS values diversity in both research and academic content, academic staff and the student population.
Students participating in the specialisation Applied Anthropology carried out research into a variety of topics, such as:
The programme is based at the Roeterseiland Campus, in the safe but lively and central Plantage neighbourhood of Amsterdam. This is a purpose-built, state of the art facility. It is easily reached by public transport, and features a number of spaces for social and cultural activities, such as the CREA student cafe and theatre. For more information, see the webpage on location.
| Diploma | MSc MSc Cultural and Social Anthropology |
|---|---|
| Vorm | Voltijd |
| Studielast | 60 EC, 12 maanden |
| Voertaal | Engels |
| Start | September |
| CROHO-code | 66614 |