Social and Cultural Anthropology Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

Overview

Understand how cultural differences shape the way understand see and experience their worlds. Why do conflicts escalate? How do communities respond to technological change? And how do power and identity determine who is heard - and who is not? During this Social and Cultural Anthropology master's programme offered at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, you'll analyse how beliefs, values and social structures are interwoven and you will delve deeper into the 'why' behind human behaviour. As an anthropologist, you place people's perspectives at the center: you listen, observe, and analyse from within.

Why study the Master's in Anthropology at VU? 

The world faces major challenges that demand innovative perspectives - precisely where anthropologists make a difference. From climate change to social inequality: anthropology reveals how cultural, political and economic processes shape these issues and changes how we understand them.

Before starting your Master's, you will choose a track that aligns with your ambitions:

Professional Anthropology Track: You will collaborate with an NGO, government agency or other stakeholder and translate research into practical recommendations.

Social and Cultural Anthropology Track: You will specialise in in-depth academic research and prepare for a PhD or research career. 

Both tracks offer three months of intensive fieldwork in the Netherlands or abroad, individual supervision and thorough methodological and theoretical training. You will complete the master's programme with a thesis based entirely on your own field research. 

Career

The Master’s graduates can be found working in multiple fields all over the world, including:

• cultural diversity consultancy

• international development

• public sector positions

• NGOs

• Healthcare sector

• social work

• museums

• education

• journalism

• research