Anthropology Abschluss: Master

The regional focus of Anthropology at the University of Basel is on Africa, Eastern Europe, Oceania and the Afro-Atlantic. 

Our research and teaching focus thematically on general anthropology; the global economy; migration, mobility and belonging; gender, sexuality and kinship; medicine, health and the body; and the politics of knowledge production.

From a methodological perspective the Institute of Social Anthropology represents primarily qualitative and interpretive approaches. In particular, it nurtures the development of methods that can detect current changes under globalization.

At Master level, the students deepen their knowledge of theories and topics in Anthropology and deal with research methods. Applied ethnographic research is at the heart of the Master's program. In a two-semester project course that includes six weeks of fieldwork, students pursue their own project on a specific topic.

Courses are taught in English. Although no certificate is required, advanced English skills (level B2 or better) are needed for successful completion of the degree.

A master’s is a second degree that a person can earn after completing a bachelor’s. The master’s program requires a total of 120 credit points (CP). The Master's Degree Program in Anthropology is combined with a second degree subject, each worth 35 CP. The subject in which students write their master’s thesis (30 CP) is considered to be their major; the other subject is their minor. Free electives (20 CP) are also included. One ECTS credit point equates to approximately 30 hours of work.

Graduates in anthropology are characterized by a high degree of sensitivity to cultures and societies, and their ability to respond to different situations and individuals. Key qualifications arise in particular from the practice of field research, where methods such as participation, observation, recognition, understanding and communication play a crucial role. This qualifies them in particular for professional activity in development cooperation, migration and refugee assistance, NGOs (e.g. in integration work and intercultural communication), but also assignments to international organizations, e.g. as delegates or administrators of the International Committee of the Red Cross. In addition, our alumni find employment in tourism, art trade, cultural management, teaching and research, or museums. As humanities and social science graduates, further career opportunities are available to them in the areas of media, PR and marketing, fundraising or adult education.

Academic advice

Academic advice provided by faculty members can help with questions regarding the course content and structure of the specific subject/course (e.g. study and examination regulations, timetables, course structure, combination of subjects, working techniques, exam preparation).

website: academic advice

Student Advice Center

The Student Advice Center provides support with general questions about studying, choosing a course of study and career planning, as well as orientation and decision-making conflicts or questions about combining and changing courses.

website: Student Advice Center