QS Rank:

131

University of Basel

Basel-Stadt
,Switzerland

Program Name
Master of Science in Anthropology
Overview

The Master of Science in Anthropology program at the University of Basel is designed to provide students with an in-depth understanding of anthropological concepts, theories, and methods. This comprehensive program allows students to explore the complexities of human behavior, culture, and societies from a global perspective. Engaging with diverse perspectives on human experience, students will develop essential research skills applicable across many fields, including social sciences, humanities, and even public policy. The unique curriculum blends theoretical knowledge with practical applications, ensuring that students are well-prepared to tackle real-world challenges.
The curriculum is thoughtfully structured to include core modules such as Cultural Anthropology, Social Theory, and Ethnographic Methods. Students will also have the opportunity to specialize in areas of their interest, such as medical anthropology, environmental anthropology, or urban anthropology, enhancing their learning experience and career readiness. The program embraces a multidisciplinary approach, allowing students to draw connections between anthropology and other fields, such as sociology, history, and philosophy.
At the University of Basel, faculty members are not only renowned scholars but also passionate educators committed to creating engaging and meaningful learning experiences. The faculty's diverse expertise covers a wide range of anthropological subfields, enriching the academic environment. Students benefit from close mentorship opportunities, allowing them to collaborate on groundbreaking research projects and gain valuable firsthand experience in their chosen areas of study. This hands-on approach cultivates critical thinking, problem-solving, and independent research skills essential for success in the field.
The University of Basel also prides itself on offering robust research opportunities. With access to state-of-the-art facilities, well-equipped laboratories, and comprehensive libraries, students are encouraged to engage in innovative research projects. The university fosters a research-driven culture, where students can delve into extensive fieldwork and ethnographic studies. Furthermore, the university's strong connections with various industries and organizations provide students with additional opportunities for internships and practical experiences that enhance their learning and career prospects.
Graduates of the Master of Science in Anthropology program often find themselves in high-demand positions across multiple sectors. Possible career pathways include roles in academia, non-profit organizations, government agencies, cultural institutions, and the private sector. With a Master’s degree, students are well-equipped to pursue careers as cultural consultants, policy advisors, academic researchers, and more. The university’s strong emphasis on employability ensures that graduates are not only knowledgeable but also competitive in the job market.
Alumni of the program have gone on to achieve remarkable success in various fields, highlighting the program’s effectiveness in preparing students for real-world challenges. Many alumni have secured positions in prestigious organizations, contributing to significant projects that promote cultural understanding and social equity. Their success stories serve as a testament to the quality of education received at the University of Basel and provide inspiration for current and prospective students.
Unique features of the Master of Science in Anthropology program at the University of Basel include its commitment to fostering a global perspective in anthropology education and research. The diverse community of students from various cultural backgrounds enriches classroom discussions and group projects, creating a vibrant academic environment. Additionally, the university hosts numerous seminars, workshops, and guest lectures from leading experts in the field, giving students access to cutting-edge knowledge and networking opportunities.
Requirements for admission into the Master of Science in Anthropology program include a relevant undergraduate degree from an accredited institution, proficiency in English demonstrated through standardized tests such as the IELTS (minimum score of 6.0) or TOEFL (minimum score of 80). Applicants are encouraged to showcase their academic achievements, research interests, and career aspirations in their application.
Why Study Anthropology at the University of Basel:
- A globally recognized program consistently ranked among the top 150 universities worldwide.
- Access to a diverse and vibrant international community, fostering cross-cultural collaboration.
- Opportunities to engage in transformative research projects under the guidance of expert faculty members.
- Well-equipped facilities and extensive resources to support innovative research and learning.
- Strong partnerships with industry, enhancing internship prospects and career placement opportunities.
- A dynamic curriculum that encourages critical thinking and interdisciplinary collaboration.
- A commitment to social equity and cultural understanding, preparing graduates to make a positive impact in the world.
Overall, enrolling in the Master of Science in Anthropology program at the University of Basel is not just an academic choice but a transformative experience that prepares students to explore the depths of human experience while equipping them with the necessary skills to lead impactful careers in various sectors.

Duration
24 Months
Ranking
#135
US World and News Report
#103
The World University Rankings
#131
QS World University Rankings
Class Profile
Diversity
Others:
10%Switzerland:
65%Germany:
15%France:
5%Italy:
3%Austria:
2%Eligibility Criteria
English Proficiency Tests
IELTS
6
TOEFL
80
FAQs
To gain admission into the Master of Science in Anthropology program at the University of Basel, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- A relevant undergraduate degree from an accredited institution.
- Proficiency in English, demonstrated through standardized tests such as the IELTS with a minimum score of 6.0 or the TOEFL with a minimum score of 80.
Additionally, applicants are encouraged to showcase their academic achievements, research interests, and career aspirations in their application.
The curriculum of the Master of Science in Anthropology program is thoughtfully structured to include core modules that cover essential topics in anthropology. Key core modules include:
- Cultural Anthropology
- Social Theory
- Ethnographic Methods
Students also have the opportunity to specialize in areas of interest, such as:
- Medical anthropology
- Environmental anthropology
- Urban anthropology
This structure enhances their learning experience and prepares them for their future careers.
The Master of Science in Anthropology program employs a hands-on approach to teaching, emphasizing practical applications alongside theoretical knowledge. Faculty members are renowned scholars and passionate educators who aim to create engaging learning experiences. Students benefit from:
- Close mentorship opportunities that allow collaboration on groundbreaking research projects.
- Engagement in extensive fieldwork and ethnographic studies.
- Access to seminars, workshops, and guest lectures from leading experts in the field.
This approach cultivates critical thinking, problem-solving, and independent research skills, which are essential for success in the field of anthropology.
Graduates of the Master of Science in Anthropology program often find themselves in high-demand positions across a variety of sectors. Possible career pathways include:
- Academia
- Non-profit organizations
- Government agencies
- Cultural institutions
- The private sector
With a Master’s degree, students are well-equipped to pursue careers as:
- Cultural consultants
- Policy advisors
- Academic researchers
The program's strong emphasis on employability ensures that graduates are not only knowledgeable but also competitive in the job market.
The Master of Science in Anthropology program at the University of Basel boasts several highlights, including:
- A globally recognized program consistently ranked among the top 150 universities worldwide.
- Access to a diverse and vibrant international community that fosters cross-cultural collaboration.
- Opportunities to engage in transformative research projects under expert faculty guidance.
- Well-equipped facilities and extensive resources to support innovative research and learning.
- Strong partnerships with industry, enhancing internship prospects and career placement opportunities.
- A dynamic curriculum that encourages critical thinking and interdisciplinary collaboration.
- A commitment to social equity and cultural understanding, preparing graduates to make a positive impact in the world.
The Master of Science in Anthropology program at the University of Basel features several unique aspects:
- A commitment to fostering a global perspective in anthropology education and research.
- A diverse community of students from various cultural backgrounds that enrich classroom discussions and group projects.
- Numerous seminars, workshops, and guest lectures from leading experts, providing access to cutting-edge knowledge and networking opportunities.
These aspects contribute to a vibrant academic environment that enhances the learning experience and prepares students for real-world challenges.
The University of Basel offers robust research opportunities for students in the Master of Science in Anthropology program. Support includes:
- Access to state-of-the-art facilities and well-equipped laboratories.
- Comprehensive libraries that provide extensive resources for research.
- A research-driven culture that encourages innovative research projects and extensive fieldwork.
- Strong connections with various industries and organizations that provide additional opportunities for internships and practical experiences.
These resources and opportunities enrich the academic environment and enhance students' learning experiences.
Current students can learn a great deal from the experiences of alumni who have achieved remarkable success in various fields after graduating from the Master of Science in Anthropology program. Alumni have secured positions in prestigious organizations and contributed to significant projects that promote cultural understanding and social equity. Their success stories serve as:
- A testament to the quality of education received at the University of Basel.
- Inspiration for current and prospective students regarding the potential career paths available.
By understanding the achievements of alumni, students can gain insights into the skills and experiences that are valuable in the job market.
Ready to elevate your study abroad journey?
Book a call with us now and take the first step towards your global future!