ANTHROPOLOGY
Anthropology studies humans—our cultures, evolution, and behaviour across time and place. It looks at how people build societies, form identities, and adapt to their environments. You study both biological and social anthropology, from human origins to modern cultural systems. The subject links science and the humanities, helping you understand what shapes human life and diversity.
SOME INFORMATION:
Books
Nigel Rapport and Joanna Overing, Social and Cultural Anthropology: The Key Concepts — clear overview of major ideas and theories.
Tim Ingold, Anthropology: Why It Matters — short book explaining the purpose of anthropology today.
Jared Diamond, Guns, Germs and Steel — links human culture, geography, and evolution.
Lectures and talks
Gresham College Anthropology Series — public lectures on culture, identity, and globalisation.
Royal Anthropological Institute recorded talks — interviews and case studies with field researchers.
Courses and activities
OpenLearn: short courses on “Introducing Anthropology” and “Human Evolution.”
Coursera: “What is Anthropology?” and “Cultural Anthropology” for structured study.
Websites
Royal Anthropological Institute — news, resources, and lecture archive.
OpenLearn Anthropology Hub — free readings and learning modules.
How to use for UCAS
Read a short anthropological case study and relate it to a cultural issue in your personal statement.
Take one OpenLearn or Coursera course to show independent academic engagement.
WHAT ELSE YOU NEED...
UCAS – “Anthropology” subject guide
Royal Anthropological Institute
American Anthropological Association
According to UCAS, the average offer for an Anthropology course at UK universities is BBB – HOWEVER – this will differ depending on the university you apply to.