Anthropology and Film & Visual Culture, MA

48 Months On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Aberdeen

Program Overview

The MA in Anthropology and Film & Visual Culture at the University of Aberdeen offers a unique interdisciplinary experience, blending cultural analysis with visual storytelling. It’s ideal for students curious about human societies, media, and creative expression, preparing them to critically engage with both anthropological theory and film practices.

Curriculum Structure:

Year 1:
In your first year, you’ll build a solid foundation in both anthropology and film studies. Core modules such as Introduction to Social Anthropology and Foundations of Film & Visual Culture will introduce you to cultural theory, ethnography, and the ways visual media shape human understanding. You’ll also explore practical skills through workshops that encourage observation, analysis, and storytelling.

Year 2:
The second year allows you to deepen your analytical and creative abilities. You’ll engage with modules like Ethnographic Film and Global Cinemas, examining how societies are represented through moving images and developing your own interpretive projects. This year emphasizes critical thinking and hands-on experience in film-making and visual research methods.

Year 3:
In your final year, you’ll have the opportunity to specialize and showcase your expertise. Modules such as Visual Anthropology and Independent Research Project enable you to produce a substantial piece of original research or creative work, integrating anthropological insight with film and visual culture. This is where your analytical skills, cultural understanding, and creative talents come together in a capstone experience.

Focus Areas:
Anthropology, ethnographic research, film analysis, visual storytelling, cultural representation, media theory

Learning Outcomes:
Graduates will be able to critically analyze societies and media, conduct independent research, interpret visual culture, and communicate insights creatively and effectively.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation):
The program equips students for careers in media, cultural heritage, creative industries, and research, providing strong professional preparation, though it is not specifically professionally accredited.

Reputation (Employability Rankings):
The University of Aberdeen is internationally recognized for the quality of its teaching and research, consistently ranked among top UK universities for employability and graduate outcomes.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

🎬 Real-World Learning in Anthropology and Film & Visual Culture

This joint honours degree uniquely combines the study of human societies with the exploration of visual media, providing students with opportunities to engage in practical, real-world experiences. Through a blend of theoretical coursework and practical projects, students gain valuable skills applicable to various fields.

The program emphasizes experiential learning, allowing students to apply their knowledge in practical settings. This approach enhances their understanding of the subjects and prepares them for future careers.

By participating in this program, students develop critical thinking, analytical, and creative skills, making them well-equipped for roles in film, media, anthropology, and related industries.

The combination of anthropology and film & visual culture offers a comprehensive perspective on human societies and their representations, providing students with a unique and valuable educational experience.

Overall, the MA Anthropology and Film & Visual Culture program at the University of Aberdeen offers a dynamic and engaging learning environment that prepares students for a wide range of career opportunities.


🔍 Experiential Learning Highlights

The program integrates various experiential learning opportunities to enhance students' academic and professional development. These include:

  • Practical Projects: Students engage in hands-on projects that apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios, fostering practical skills and experience.

  • Group Collaborations: Collaborative projects encourage teamwork and communication, essential skills in both academic and professional settings.

  • Fieldwork Opportunities: The program provides opportunities for fieldwork, allowing students to gather firsthand data and insights, enriching their understanding of the subjects.

  • Access to Research Institutes: Students have access to research institutes, facilitating involvement in ongoing research projects and enhancing their academic experience.

  • Engagement with Cultural Organizations: The program encourages engagement with cultural organizations, providing students with exposure to industry practices and networks.

  • Use of Digital Tools: Students utilize digital tools and software relevant to anthropology and film & visual culture, equipping them with necessary technical skills.

  • Library Resources: The university's extensive library resources support students' research and learning, offering access to a wide range of materials.

  • Support from Careers Service: The university's careers service offers guidance and support, assisting students in exploring career options and opportunities.

These experiential learning opportunities are designed to provide students with a comprehensive and practical understanding of anthropology and film & visual culture, preparing them for successful careers in these fields.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the MA in Anthropology and Film & Visual Culture from the University of Aberdeen leave equipped with strong analytical, communication, and creative skills, opening doors to diverse careers. Typical roles include Film Producer, Cultural Heritage Consultant, Media Analyst, and Academic Researcher:

  • University Careers Service: The University of Aberdeen’s dedicated Careers Service offers tailored advice, internship placements, CV workshops, and networking events to connect students with employers.

  • Employment Stats & Salary Figures: Graduates from related arts and humanities fields often secure positions within six months of graduation, with entry-level salaries typically ranging from £22,000–£28,000, growing as experience develops.

  • University–Industry Partnerships: The program leverages collaborations with local and international media companies, cultural institutions, and museums, giving students hands-on experience and networking opportunities.

  • Long-Term Accreditation Value: Aberdeen’s strong reputation, ranking 3rd in the UK for Anthropology and Archaeology, ensures a respected qualification valued by employers worldwide.

  • Graduation Outcomes: Alumni thrive in media, academia, cultural management, and business, using their interdisciplinary expertise to shape careers across multiple sectors.

Further Academic Progression:
Students may choose to continue their studies by pursuing postgraduate degrees such as an MA or MSc in Media Studies, Cultural Anthropology, Film Production, or even doctoral research (PhD) in related disciplines, building on the critical and technical skills gained during this program.

Program Key Stats

£20,800
£9,535
£ 29
Sept Intake : 14th Jan


78 %
No
No

Eligibility Criteria

BBC
3.0
32
75

N/A
N/A
6.0
78

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Museum Curator
  • Film Archivist
  • Media Analyst
  • Cultural Heritage Consultant
  • Documentary Producer
  • Art Critic
  • Academic Researcher
  • Exhibition Coordinator
  • Visual Anthropologist
  • Media Planner
  • Heritage Manager
  • Gallery Assistant
  • Film Programmer
  • Cultural Policy Advisor
  • Public Historian

Book Free Session with Our Admission Experts

Admission Experts