Anthropology
LL60Anthropology delves into the bare bones of what it means to be human. It takes the whole world as its canvas and brings you into close contact with an eye-opening array of human behaviours from both the past and present.
Course overview
Our Anthropology programme is a fascinating exploration of human societies, looking at present-day western and non-western groups, the biological aspects of humanity, and social development through time as seen in material culture.
This three-year course enables you to get to grips with questions commonly posed by anthropologists: How has evolution shaped us? What is culture? Do any universals of human behaviour exist?
Due to the broad nature of the topic, anthropologists are highly valued by employers in many industries for their cross-cultural communication skills and their ability to analyse human behaviour. As Margaret Mead, the great American anthropologist, once said: “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has.”
The course strikes a balance between academic learning and hands-on application. You can tinker with extensive archaeological materials, from primate skeletons to religious relics, in our University’s cutting-edge departmental laboratory.
Our programme uses a wide range of assessment methods including fieldwork projects and work placements. You will build experience with anthropological fieldwork techniques and will be encouraged to develop your own fieldwork interests through the course.
Classes are taught by passionate and highly-respected leaders in the field who specialise in varied aspects of the anthropological study of humanity, from investigating the evidence for health and disease in ancient human populations to migration and transnationalism in contemporary European societies.
The degree consists of three strands which extend throughout the entire course: social anthropology, biological anthropology and archaeology/material culture.
In Year 1, you receive an introduction to social and biological anthropology as well as material culture. You will also take modules in world prehistory and primate and human evolution.
Year 2’s core modules focus on research methods, theory, the relationship between biology and society, art and visual culture. A wide range of possible optional modules are available to introduce you to key geographic regions or themes such as religion and ritual, conflict, the archaeology of death and burial, human bioarchaeology, or gender and sexualities.
The third and final year you will undertake a research dissertation or a work placement. Third year modules allow for more in-depth specialisation in social and biological anthropology, as well as optional topics such as the Archaeology of Medieval Religion and Belief, Intangible Heritage, or the study of different religious traditions.
As an anthropology student, you learn how to understand, interpret and respond to human behaviour. Alongside such specialist skills, you also develop valuable transferable skills highly prized by employers, including the ability to think critically, communicate your ideas and opinions clearly and work both independently and collaboratively.
Find out more about the Department for Archaeology, Anthropology and Geography.
Pre-approved for a Masters
If you study a Bachelor Honours degree with us, you will be pre-approved to start a Masters degree at Winchester. To be eligible, you will need to apply by the end of March in the final year of your degree and meet the entry requirements of your chosen Masters degree.
What you need to know
Course start date
September
Location
Winchester campus
Course length
- 3 years full-time
- 6 years part-time
Apply
LL60
Typical offer
104-120 points
Fees
From £9,250 pa
Course features
- Explore what it means to be human by developing an understanding of the biological aspects of humanity and delving into a wide array of human societies, both past and present.
- Get up close and hands-on with a range of materials, from primate skeletons to religious relics, in our University’s cutting-edge departmental laboratory
- Become a sought-after employee by diverse industries, from medicine and museums to academia and advertising
- Develop intercultural understanding – a key asset in today’s job market
Course details
Our aim is to shape 'confident learners' by enabling you to develop the skills needed to excel in your studies here and as well as onto further studies or the employment market.
You are taught primarily through a combination of lectures and seminars, allowing opportunities to discuss and develop your understanding of topics covered in lectures in smaller groups.
In addition to the formally scheduled contact time such as lectures and seminars etc., you are encouraged to access academic support from staff within the course team and the wide range of services available to you within the University.
Independent learning
Over the duration of your course, you will be expected to develop independent and critical learning, progressively building confidence and expertise through independent and collaborative research, problem-solving and analysis with the support of staff. You take responsibility for your own learning and are encouraged to make use of the wide range of available learning resources available.
Overall workload
Your overall workload consists of class contact hours, independent learning and assessment activity.
While your actual contact hours may depend on the optional modules you select, the following information gives an indication of how much time you will need to allocate to different activities at each level of the course
Year 1 (Level 4): Timetabled teaching and learning activity*
Teaching, learning and assessment: 252 hours
Independent learning: 948 hours
Year 2 (Level 5): Timetabled teaching and learning activity*
Teaching, learning and assessment: 216 hours
Independent learning: 984 hours
Year 3 (Level 6): Timetabled teaching and learning activity*
Teaching, learning and assessment: 168 hours
Independent learning: 1032 hours
*Please note these are indicative hours for the course.
Teaching hours
All class based teaching takes places between 9am – 6pm, Monday to Friday during term time. Wednesday afternoons are kept free from timetabled teaching for personal study time and for sports clubs and societies to train, meet and play matches. There may be some occasional learning opportunities (for example, an evening guest lecturer or performance) that take places outside of these hours for which you will be given forewarning.
Assessment
Our validated courses may adopt a range of means of assessing your learning. An indicative, and not necessarily comprehensive, list of assessment types you might encounter includes essays, portfolios, supervised independent work, presentations, written exams, or practical performances.
We ensure all students have an equal opportunity to achieve module learning outcomes. As such, where appropriate and necessary, students with recognised disabilities may have alternative assignments set that continue to test how successfully they have met the module's learning outcomes. Further details on assessment types used on the course you are interested in can be found on the course page, by attending an Open Day or Open Evening, or contacting our teaching staff.
The assessment balance between examination and coursework depends to some extent on the optional modules you choose. The approximate percentage of the course assessed by different assessment modes is as follows:
Year 1 (Level 4)*:
62% coursework
25% written exams
13% practical assessment
Year 2 (Level 5)*:
62% coursework
38% written exams
0% practical assessment
Year 3 (Level 6)*:
87% coursework
13% written exams
0% practical assessment
*Please note these are indicative percentages and modes for the programme.
Feedback
We are committed to providing timely and appropriate feedback to you on your academic progress and achievement in order to enable you to reflect on your progress and plan your academic and skills development effectively. You are also encouraged to seek additional feedback from your course tutors.
Modules
Please note the modules listed are correct at the time of publishing. The University cannot guarantee the availability of all modules listed and modules may be subject to change. The University will notify applicants of any changes made to the core modules listed. For further information please refer to winchester.ac.uk/termsandconditions
Modules
This module introduces students to the discipline of social anthropology and provides an overview of the main research methods and approaches that make social anthropology distinctive. Key themes in the study of cultures and societies from a social anthropological perspective will be explored, with a focus on ethnographic research.
This module introduces students to the discipline of biological anthropology and provides an overview of the key principles and approaches to the study of humans from a biological and evolutionary perspective. There will be a focus on primate and human evolution, with discussion of key fossil finds.
This module explores the history of anthropology from its origins to the present day, with a focus on key debates and controversies in its development. It also investigates key themes from the perspectives of biological anthropology, social anthropology, and archaeology in order to compare and contrast these approaches to the study of humanity.
An exploration of the archaeological evidence for ancient societies and civilizations from earliest prehistory through to the contemporary period.
Modules
This module considers key theoretical approaches in archaeology, anthropology and in the humanities and social sciences more generally. It also provides training in anthropological research methods and encourages students to apply both theoretical and methodological approaches to their own research interests.
This module explores identity categories such as gender, sexualities, race, ethnicity, language, age and disability from both a biological and social point of view. It will evaluate theories related to the evolution of human behaviour, and include discussion of how identity categories are constructed and contested in relation to specific cultures or geographic areas.
This module investigates art and visual culture from an archaeological and anthropological perspective to explore Western and non-Western approaches to art in the present and the past. It includes a focus on the role of museums in the production of knowledge about global art worlds, and provides practical experience in researching and writing about cultural objects.
Students may pick one of the following.
AC Death, Burials and Bioarchaeology - 30 credits
This module examines a range of approaches, methods and themes within archaeology and anthropology relating to the study of death, burial and funerary customs in the past. The module will also have a practical component which will introduce students to working with human remains from archaeological sites to gain an understanding of how bioarchaeologists determine age-at-death, biological sex, and evidence for pathology from skeletal remains.
Global Religions: Spaces and Places - 30 credits
This module explores a range of global religions and spiritual traditions in their home locations and in diaspora, unpacking key concepts and considering understandings of religions in a global world where sacred material culture can be found in non-religious settings such as museums and shops.
All humanities subjects are grounded in theory. These bodies of theory may or may not be explicitly stated, but you use them, whether you are aware of them or not. It is easiest to think of theory as the set of tools that you can use to ‘fix’ or understand a problem. This module considers contemporary theory in archaeology, social anthropology and biological anthropology, drawing on areas of social and cultural theory that have been relevant to archaeologists and anthropologists. You will be encouraged to read and discuss a range of key historical texts and case studies will be used to demonstrate how the theories have been applied in recent archaeological or anthropological research. In this way, you will be able to understand the appropriateness of theories which may be relevant to your research interests and to gain a wider appreciation of how we think through problems and issues.
Optional
This module considers key theoretical approaches in archaeology, anthropology and in the humanities and social sciences more generally. It also provides training in anthropological research methods and encourages students to apply both theoretical and methodological approaches to their own research interests.
This module explores identity categories such as gender, sexualities, race, ethnicity, language, age and disability from both a biological and social point of view. It will evaluate theories related to the evolution of human behaviour, and include discussion of how identity categories are constructed and contested in relation to specific cultures or geographic areas.
This module investigates art and visual culture from an archaeological and anthropological perspective to explore Western and non-Western approaches to art in the present and the past. It includes a focus on the role of museums in the production of knowledge about global art worlds, and provides practical experience in researching and writing about cultural objects.
Students may pick one of the following.
AC Death, Burials and Bioarchaeology - 30 credits
This module examines a range of approaches, methods and themes within archaeology and anthropology relating to the study of death, burial and funerary customs in the past. The module will also have a practical component which will introduce students to working with human remains from archaeological sites to gain an understanding of how bioarchaeologists determine age-at-death, biological sex, and evidence for pathology from skeletal remains.
Global Religions: Spaces and Places - 30 credits
This module explores a range of global religions and spiritual traditions in their home locations and in diaspora, unpacking key concepts and considering understandings of religions in a global world where sacred material culture can be found in non-religious settings such as museums and shops.
All humanities subjects are grounded in theory. These bodies of theory may or may not be explicitly stated, but you use them, whether you are aware of them or not. It is easiest to think of theory as the set of tools that you can use to ‘fix’ or understand a problem. This module considers contemporary theory in archaeology, social anthropology and biological anthropology, drawing on areas of social and cultural theory that have been relevant to archaeologists and anthropologists. You will be encouraged to read and discuss a range of key historical texts and case studies will be used to demonstrate how the theories have been applied in recent archaeological or anthropological research. In this way, you will be able to understand the appropriateness of theories which may be relevant to your research interests and to gain a wider appreciation of how we think through problems and issues.
Modules
Students choose one of two tracks for this final-year module: 1. A 10,000 word dissertation on a topic or theme in social or biological anthropology developed through independent research under the supervision of a member of staff; or 2. a project based alternative involving a period of prolonged practical experience of working within an external organisation.
This module will focus on the importance of migration and movement throughout human evolution from both biological and social perspectives. From the first hominins to move out of Africa we will explore the archaeological evidence for the migration of past populations as well as gain a systematic understanding of migration and transnationalism as key issues in contemporary society and for the study of social anthropology.
This module will explore the public communication of anthropological topics in a variety of media including, for example, newspapers, research blogs or television programmes. It will also explore the diversity of interpretation that can be applied to archaeological data from different perspectives and using different types of evidence. Throughout the module students will be encouraged to critically analyse the interpretations provided for anthropological and archaeological data in a variety of forms.
Students can pick one of the following.
Rites, Religions and Rituals - 30 credits
This module examines the ranges of approaches, methods and themes relating to the study of religion, ritual and belief in past societies.
Alternative Spiritualities: New and Indigenous Religions - 30 credits
This module introduces students to a range of indigenous spiritual lifeways and to the study of new religions, encouraging them to critically consider, through the anthropological and sociological study of religions, how the study of religions and religious people has developed over time, and consider the historical events that have helped shaped the discipline.
Themes in European Prehistory - 30 credits
This module discusses a series of major areas for debate in European prehistory, from the Palaeolithic to the Iron Age, such as the emergence of modern humans, the impact of climate change, the development of social elites, the appearance of states and civilisations, and periods of greater and lesser cultural similarity across the continent.
Optional
Students choose one of two tracks for this final-year module: 1. A 10,000 word dissertation on a topic or theme in social or biological anthropology developed through independent research under the supervision of a member of staff; or 2. a project based alternative involving a period of prolonged practical experience of working within an external organisation.
This module will focus on the importance of migration and movement throughout human evolution from both biological and social perspectives. From the first hominins to move out of Africa we will explore the archaeological evidence for the migration of past populations as well as gain a systematic understanding of migration and transnationalism as key issues in contemporary society and for the study of social anthropology.
This module will explore the public communication of anthropological topics in a variety of media including, for example, newspapers, research blogs or television programmes. It will also explore the diversity of interpretation that can be applied to archaeological data from different perspectives and using different types of evidence. Throughout the module students will be encouraged to critically analyse the interpretations provided for anthropological and archaeological data in a variety of forms.
Students can pick one of the following.
Rites, Religions and Rituals - 30 credits
This module examines the ranges of approaches, methods and themes relating to the study of religion, ritual and belief in past societies.
Alternative Spiritualities: New and Indigenous Religions - 30 credits
This module introduces students to a range of indigenous spiritual lifeways and to the study of new religions, encouraging them to critically consider, through the anthropological and sociological study of religions, how the study of religions and religious people has developed over time, and consider the historical events that have helped shaped the discipline.
Themes in European Prehistory - 30 credits
This module discusses a series of major areas for debate in European prehistory, from the Palaeolithic to the Iron Age, such as the emergence of modern humans, the impact of climate change, the development of social elites, the appearance of states and civilisations, and periods of greater and lesser cultural similarity across the continent.
Entry requirements
Our offers are typically made using UCAS tariff points to allow you to include a range of level 3 qualifications and as a guide, the requirements for this course are equivalent to:
- A-Levels: BCC-BBB from 3 A Levels or equivalent grade combinations (e.g. BBB is comparable to ABC in terms of tariff points)
- BTEC/CTEC: DMM from BTEC or Cambridge Technical (CTEC) qualifications
- International Baccalaureate: To include a minimum of 2 Higher Level certificates at grade H4
- T Level: Merit in a T Level
Additionally, we accept tariff points achieved for many other qualifications, such as the Access to Higher Education Diploma, Scottish Highers, UAL Diploma/Extended Diploma and WJEC Applied Certificate/Diploma, to name a few. We also accept tariff points from smaller level 3 qualifications, up to a maximum of 32, from qualifications like the Extended Project (EP/EPQ), music or dance qualifications. To find out more about UCAS tariff points, including what your qualifications are worth, please visit UCAS.
In addition to level 3 study, the following GCSE’s are required:
GCSE English Language at grade 4 or C, or higher. Functional Skills at level 2 is accepted as an alternative, however Key Skills qualifications are not. If you hold another qualification, please get in touch and we will advise further.
If you will be over the age of 21 years of age at the beginning of your undergraduate study, you will be considered as a mature student. This means our offer may be different and any work or life experiences you have will be considered together with any qualifications you hold. UCAS have further information about studying as a mature student on their website which may be of interest.
If English is not your first language, a formal English language test will most likely be required and you will need to achieve the following:
- IELTS Academic at 5.5 overall with a minimum of 5.5 in all four components (for year 1 entry)
- We also accept other English language qualifications, such as IELTS Indicator, Pearson PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and TOEFL iBT.
If you are living outside of the UK or Europe, you can find out more about how to join this course by contacting our International Recruitment Team via our International Apply Pages.
2025 Course Tuition Fees
| UK / Channel Islands / Isle of Man / Republic of Ireland |
International |
|
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | £9,250 | £16,700 |
| Year 2 | £9,250 | £16,700 |
| Year 3 | £9,250 | £16,700 |
| Total | £27,750 | £50,100 |
| Optional Sandwich Year* | £1,850 | £3,340 |
| Total with Sandwich Year | £29,600 | £53,440 |
Additional tuition fee information
If you are a UK student starting your degree in September 2025, the first year will cost you £9,250**. Based on this fee level, the indicative fees for a three-year degree would be £27,750 for UK students.
Remember, you don’t have to pay any of this upfront if you are able to get a tuition fee loan from the UK Government to cover the full cost of your fees each year.
UK Part-Time fees are calculated on a pro rata basis of the full-time fee for a 120 credit course. The fee for a single credit is £77.08 and a 15 credit module is £1,156. Part-time students can take up to a maximum 90 credits per year, so the maximum fee in a given year will be the government permitted maximum fee of £6,935.
International part-time fees are calculated on a pro rata basis of the full-time fee for a 120 credit course. The fee for a single credit is £139.14 and a 15 credit module is £2,087.
* Please note that not all courses offer an optional sandwich year.
**The University of Winchester will charge the maximum approved tuition fee per year.
Additional costs
As one of our students all of your teaching and assessments are included in your tuition fees, including, lectures/guest lectures and tutorials, seminars, laboratory sessions and specialist teaching facilities. You will also have access to a wide range of student support and IT services.
There might be additional costs you may encounter whilst studying. The following highlights the mandatory and optional costs for this course:
Optional
Anthropological field studies
Different options for field studies in anthropology exist over the course of the degree programme, from week-long field trips to field research over the summer on university-led or independent field research projects. Students may have to cover project-specific costs, including travel, accommodation and subsistence for the duration of the project. At the highest end of this spectrum are the projects in Barbados (indicative cost is £1200 for two weeks); and Georgia (indicative cost is £1500 for four weeks). For the week-long field trip, optional costs would be between £150 and £300.
SCHOLARSHIPS, BURSARIES AND AWARDS
We have a variety of scholarship and bursaries available to support you financially with the cost of your course. To see if you’re eligible, please see our Scholarships and Awards page.
CAREER PROSPECTS
Anthropology graduates work in a wide range of careers such as international development, Government, NGOs, Business (especially cross-cultural communication), museums, or health and tourism.
The University of Winchester ranks in the top 10 in the UK for graduates in employment and further study according to the Graduate Outcomes Survey 2021, HESA.
OUR CAREERS SERVICE
“I was attracted to the course here at Winchester because it had a really good, broad subject learning area.”
