Queen's University Belfast United Kingdom

Anthropology and Politics

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 3 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The BA Anthropology and Politics degree at Queen's University Belfast invites you to explore the fundamental questions of what it means to be human and how societies are organised, from local communities to global systems. This interdisciplinary undergraduate programme is ideal if you are curious about diverse cultures, social dynamics, conflict resolution, and political structures. You will delve into core anthropological themes such as evolution, culture, and societal organisation, alongside critical political concepts like conflict, peacebuilding, and identity, gaining a comprehensive understanding of human behaviour and governance.

This full-time, on-campus degree, studied over three years, offers a dynamic learning experience. You will engage with modules covering everything from the ethnomusicology of global arts to the psychology of morality and the intricacies of comparative politics. Through case studies, theoretical analysis, and potentially a dissertation, you will develop advanced research, critical thinking, and analytical skills. You will graduate prepared for a wide range of careers in international development, policy analysis, journalism, NGOs, and further academic study, equipped to address complex global challenges.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This course explores the intricate relationship between anthropology and politics, examining how human societies are shaped by and shape political structures. You will delve into topics such as globalization, identity, conflict, and power through both anthropological and political science lenses. The curriculum covers diverse areas including comparative politics, international relations, and the anthropology of specific regions and social phenomena, culminating in a dissertation project.

1 Stage 1

Being Human: Evolution, Culture and Society
A World on the Move: Anthropological and Historical Approaches to Globalisation
Us and Them: Why Do We Have In-groups and Outgroups?
Being Creative: Music, Media and the Arts
Understanding Northern Ireland
Comparative Politics
Contemporary Europe
Issues in Contemporary Politics
Perspective on Politics
World Politics: Conflict and Peace

2 Stage 2

How Society Works: Key Debates in Anthropology
Skills in the Field: Dissertation Preparation
Hanging out on Street Corners: Public and Applied Anthropology
Business Anthropology in the Digital Age
Why Are Humans Violent? Understanding Violence, Conflict, and Trauma
Human Morality
Radical Musics: Understanding Sounds of Defiance across Disciplines
Apocalypse! The History and Anthropology of the End of the World
American Politics
British Politics in crisis
International Organisations
Modern Political Thought
Politics and Policies of the European Union
Security and Terrorism
Studying Politics
The Politics of Deeply Divided Societies

3 Stage 3

Dissertation in Social Anthropology: Writing-Up
The Politics of Performance: From Negotiation to Display
Human-Animal Relations
In Gods We Trust: The New Science of Religion
Love, Hate and Beyond: Emotions, Culture, Practice
Music and Identity in the Mediterranean
Ireland and Britain: People, Identity, Nations
Remembering the Future: Violent Pasts, Loss, and the Politics of Hope
Anthropology and Roma
Arms Control
Asylum and Migration in Global Politics
Contemporary Political Philosophy
National and Ethnic Minorities in European Politics
Northern Ireland: A Case Study
Political Parties and Elections in Northern Ireland
Challenges to contemporary party politics
Politics, Public Administration and Policymaking
Security and Technology
The Far Right in Western Europe and North America
The Politics of Irish Literature
Earth, Energy, Ethics and Economy: The Politics of Unsustainability

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

16% off
First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 25,564.00 USD 30,278.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 30,278.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 30,278.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 86,121.00 USD 90,834.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 785.00 - USD 1,416.00
Food & Groceries USD 4,833.00 - USD 7,249.00
Transport USD 806.00 - USD 3,222.00
Utilities & Bills USD 4,028.00 - USD 4,833.00
Estimated Total USD 9,667.00 - USD 15,304.00

Living cost estimates are based on Belfast Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

89%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Adult & Continuing EducationAmusement & Recreation ServicesAnimation & Visual EffectsCivil & Infrastructure EngineeringClient Services & Account ManagementConstruction Technology & Digital SolutionsPublic RelationsSecondary & High School EducationSpecial & Inclusive EducationTalent & Artist Management

Top Employers Hiring for this course

A&O Shearman

Baker McKenzie

Citi

European commission

National History Museum

PwC

United Nations

Why Study Anthropology and Politics at Queen's University Belfast

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at Queen's University Belfast 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 Politics at Queen's University Belfast

Can I work while studying?

International students in Degree courses can work up to 20 hours per week during term time. Full-time work is allowed during breaks.

What English language score do I need for this course?

For English proficiency, you need to meet specific scores depending on the test. Options include Duolingo (overall 120), TOEFL (overall 90), IELTS (overall 6.5), and PTE (overall 69).

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Potential job titles include Cultural Anthropologist, Political Analyst, International Relations Specialist, Policy Advisor, and Researcher.

What will I actually study in this course?

This program offers an interdisciplinary understanding of cultures and politics, focusing on international affairs and societal institutions. Students will explore critical issues like cultural differences in globalization and the healing processes of post-conflict societies.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Intake month for the Joint Honours Programme in Anthropology and Politics is September. Make sure to apply ahead of this date to secure your place.
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
 
Account
  • New student?

Search for universities & courses

ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️