University of Aberdeen United Kingdom

Anthropology and International Relations

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

Explore the complex interplay between human societies and global power structures with the Anthropology and International Relations Bachelors Degree at the University of Aberdeen. This undergraduate course is ideal for students keen to understand diverse cultural practices and the forces shaping international politics, from democracy and governance to conflict and inequality. You will develop critical analytical skills to examine contemporary global challenges, drawing on key anthropological concepts and international relations theories to gain a nuanced perspective on the modern world. This degree equips you to engage with complex global issues.

You will study this programme full-time on campus over four years, progressing through foundational courses in anthropology and politics in your first year, including Peoples of the World and Democracy and Governance. As you advance, you will delve into key debates in anthropology and global politics, culminating in a significant joint honours dissertation in your final year. This hands-on research experience, alongside specialised optional courses, prepares you for diverse career paths in international development, diplomacy, policy analysis, or further academic study, equipping you with sought-after analytical and cross-cultural competencies.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This program explores the intersection of anthropology and international relations, examining global political dynamics through an anthropological lens. Students will engage with foundational concepts in both disciplines, investigating topics such as diversity, power, conflict, and governance. The curriculum progresses to delve into key theoretical debates, contemporary global issues, and specialized areas of study, culminating in opportunities for independent research and advanced exploration of political and social phenomena.

1 YEAR 1

Getting Started at the University of Aberdeen Compulsory
Introduction to Anthropology: Peoples of the World Compulsory
Politics & International Relations 1: Democracy and Governance Compulsory
Introduction to Anthropology: Questions of Diversity Compulsory
Politics & International Relations 2: Power and Conflict Compulsory
Academic Writing for Social Sciences Compulsory

2 YEAR 2

Key Debates in Anthropology Compulsory
Ideas and Ideologies in Politics and International Relations Compulsory
Reimagining Colonialism Compulsory
Global Politics: Equality and Inequality Compulsory

3 YEAR 3

Anthropological Theory Compulsory

4 YEAR 4

Joint Honours Dissertation in Anthropology Optional
Dissertation (International Relations) Optional
Roads, Mobility, Movement, Migration Optional
Anthropology of the North Optional
Comparative Constitutional Systems Optional
Emotion, Self and Society Optional
The Political Anthropology of Indigenous Rights Optional
More Than Human Optional
Contemporary French Politics: Race, Religion and Social Change B Optional
Science, Technology & International Relations Optional
Extreme Right in Western Europe Optional
War and Peace in International Politics Optional
Maritime Security Optional
International Political Psychology Optional
Political Islam: Islamist Ideologies and Practices Optional
Scottish Politics Optional
International Migration and Europe Optional
Gender and Politics Optional
Northern Ireland: Small, Dirty War Optional
Corruption and Good Governance Optional
US Presidents Optional

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 28,115.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 28,115.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 28,115.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 28,115.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 112,461.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Food & Groceries USD 2,256.00 - USD 3,867.00
Transport USD 725.00 - USD 1,009.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,386.00 - USD 1,732.00
Estimated Total USD 4,367.00 - USD 6,262.00

Living cost estimates are based on Old Aberdeen campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

97%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Animation & Visual EffectsCivil & Infrastructure EngineeringCorporate Training & DevelopmentEarly Childhood & Primary EducationEducation Policy & AdministrationEvent Promotion & ManagementFilm & Television ProductionLive Events & ConcertsReal Estate DevelopmentSpecial & Inclusive Education

Top Employers Hiring for this course

European commission

National History Museum

National Trust

Why Study Anthropology and International Relations at University of Aberdeen

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of Aberdeen in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Anthropology and International Relations at University of Aberdeen

Can I work while studying?

Work permissions vary by study level: degree students can work 20 hours per week during term time, while diploma students can work 10 hours. During breaks, full-time work is allowed without a separate permit.

What English language score do I need for this course?

For English requirements, you can provide scores from various tests: Duolingo scores need to reach overall 105, while TOEFL requires an overall score of 78. Check specific scores for each section depending on the test you choose.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Potential job titles include International Relations Analyst, Cultural Attaché, Policy Advisor, and NGOs Consultant.

What will I actually study in this course?

This program at Aberdeen explores what it means to 'be human' and how organizations, states, and governments interact globally. You'll gain unique insights to address contemporary challenges and opportunities.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Anthropology and International Relations program has intake months in September. Make sure to apply in advance to secure your spot.
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