Program Overview

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Master of Arts in Social Anthropology

The Master of Arts in Social Anthropology program at the University of Bern provides a comprehensive education in the field of social anthropology, covering both classical and innovative topics. The program is designed for graduates of Bachelor's programs in social or cultural anthropology, or ethnology, and aims to provide advanced knowledge and skills in theory, methodology, and research.

Program Structure

The program consists of a Major (90 ECTS) and a Minor (30 ECTS). The Major includes two areas of focus:

• Fachausbildung und Methodik (specialized training and methodology)
• Empirische Forschungsausbildung (empirical research training)

The Minor provides advanced knowledge in specific areas of social anthropology.

Admission Requirements

To be admitted to the program, applicants must have a Bachelor's degree in social or cultural anthropology, or ethnology, from a recognized Swiss university. Applicants with a Bachelor's degree from another field or from a foreign university may be admitted on a case-by-case basis.

Language Requirements

Applicants must have sufficient knowledge of German, French, and English to participate in the program.

Career Opportunities

The Master of Arts in Social Anthropology program prepares students for a wide range of careers, including:

• Research and academia
• Development cooperation and international organizations
• Cultural mediation and museum work
• Media and tourism
• Healthcare and social services

Program Details

Major Sozialanthropologie (90 ECTS)

The Major provides advanced knowledge and skills in social anthropology, including:

• Theoretical foundations
• Methodological training
• Empirical research
• Regional and thematic specializations

Minor Sozialanthropologie (30 ECTS)

The Minor provides advanced knowledge in specific areas of social anthropology, including:

• Theoretical foundations
• Methodological training
• Empirical research
• Regional and thematic specializations

Combination Options

The Major can be combined with a Minor from any faculty at the University of Bern or from another university, provided that the combination is approved by the program director.

Semester Dates

The program starts in the fall or spring semester. The academic year and lecture periods are published on the university's website.

Application and Admission

Applications are submitted online. Admission requirements and procedures are outlined on the university's website.

Fees and Funding

Information on tuition fees and funding opportunities is available on the university's website.

Research Areas

The program covers a wide range of research areas, including:

• Social and cultural anthropology
• Ethnology
• Development studies
• International relations
• Cultural mediation and museum studies

Institute and Faculty

The program is offered by the Institute of Social Anthropology at the University of Bern's Faculty of Humanities.

Further Information

For further information on the program, please refer to the university's website or contact the program director.