Cultural Anthropology and Development Sociology (MSc)

The one-year master's programme at Leiden University focuses on ethnographic research, offering you the chance to conduct independent studies on your chosen topic. Collaborate with ongoing projects or societal partners and acquire skills that are essential both in academia and beyond.

Specialisations

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Choose your path: Global Ethnography, Sociology of Policy in Practice, and Visual Ethnography

The master’s programme in Cultural Anthropology and Development Sociology offers three specialisations. Each providing a distinct approach to applying anthropological knowledge in professional settings.

With Global Ethnography you undertake an immersive three-month ethnographic field research, tailoring it to your specific interests. This research will serve as the foundation for an academic thesis.
By choosing Sociology of Policy in Practice you conduct ethnographic research during an internship wherein you actively engage with a societal partner, addressing their concerns and contributing valuable insights.
If you prefer research based on audiovisual data, with the Visual Ethnography specialisation you will translate your research findings into captivating mediums such as a documentary, art installations, graphic novels, or any other multi-model presentation formats.

All specialisations are part of one MSc in Cultural Anthropology and Development Sociology and grant the same degree. It is therefore possible to follow, and graduate in, only one specialisation.

Prospective students have to indicate which Master specialisation they would like to enroll for. Changing between the master specialisations Global Ethnography and Sociology of Policy in Practice will still be possible until (shortly) after the commencement of the programme. Please note that the VE specialisation is only accessible for students who meet the additional requirements.

Methodology in Practice & theorizing ethnographic research

All students begin with the course Research Design, a comprehensive course on research and methodological training. As part of this course students will follow a one-week hands-on course: Methodology in Practice (MiP) week. Coupled with the course Contemporary Anthropological and Social Theory you’ll develop the empirical reasoning and ethnographic skills needed to tackle complex cultural and developmental issues.

Shape your future

Graduates can pursue careers in policy-making, research and development, media, communication, and development work. Our programme equips you with the skills to make meaningful contributions in various professional environments.

Tailor your research: from LGBTQIA+ refugees to global sustainable tourism

Each specialisation allows you to develop a research project on a topic of personal interest. Whether it's water management in Africa, the fate of LGBTQIA+ refugees or the digitisation of cultural heritage in Holland, you'll have the freedom to explore what you're passionate about.

Research guidance

Our programme provides practical exercises and courses to help you gain the knowledge and confidence to tackle challenges in your research. Our staff brings extensive experience in both conducting research and guiding students through their academic journeys.

Impressions of the field

Learn how to address challenges faced by (local) NGO's, government bodies, and commercial companies
Learn how to use audio-visual methods for producing contemporary anthropological research
Design your own Global Ethnography project anywhere in the world