MA Applied Anthropology & Community Development

Program Overview

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This MA program in Applied Anthropology and Community Development equips students with critical analysis, fieldwork skills, and research methods for careers in community development. It emphasizes ethical considerations, social justice, and hands-on learning experiences through immersive fieldwork placements. Graduates are well-prepared for roles such as Community Development Worker, Youth Worker, and Social Researcher.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

It was launched in 2012 as an option for international or home students who do not need an National Youth Agency qualification and for those who want to specialise in community development. This program boasts several key objectives:

• Enable students to critically analyze pertinent social issues by exploring diverse perspectives and applying sociological theories.

• Equip students with the skills and approaches necessary for effective fieldwork in community development settings.

• Foster a rigorous understanding of research methods applicable to anthropological and community development contexts.

• Nurture the development of critical thinking and reflexive practice pertinent to community development professional roles.

• Emphasize the significance of ethical considerations and social justice principles in community development endeavors.

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Outline:

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Program Structure:

• Full-time students complete the program in one academic year, attending classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

• Part-time students (available to home/EU students) complete the program over two years, attending classes on Thursdays in one year and Tuesdays in the other.

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Anthropology Components:

• Contemporary Social Issues (30 credits): This module delves into contemporary social challenges, exploring theoretical frameworks and case studies examining social inequalities, poverty, and globalization.
• Anthropological Research Methods (30 credits): This module equips students with the essential research methods and techniques employed in anthropological research, including participant observation, interviewing, and ethnographic analysis.
• Dissertation (60 credits): Students undertake an independent research project, applying their acquired knowledge and skills to a topic of their choosing within the realm of applied anthropology and community development.

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Fieldwork Components:

• Fieldwork Report 1: Perspectives and Approaches (15 credits): Introduces core concepts and approaches in community development, emphasizing ethical considerations and the role of the community development practitioner.
• Fieldwork Report 2: Critical Practice (15 credits): Focuses on critical reflection on the practice of community development, examining power relations, conflict resolution, and participatory approaches.
• Fieldwork Report 3: Management, Enterprise and Development (30 credits): Explores community development from a managerial perspective, covering topics such as fundraising, project management, and enterprise development.

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Assessment:

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Assessment methods vary depending on the module and may include a combination of:

• Essays: Demonstrating students' analytical and writing skills in addressing specific topics.
• Documents: Submitting reports, reflective journals, and other documents related to fieldwork experiences.
• Placement Supervisor Reports: Receiving feedback from supervisors on students' performance during their fieldwork placements.
• Fieldwork Contract Forms: Ensuring adherence to protocols and expectations during fieldwork engagements.
• Observations: Assessing students' ability to observe, analyze, and interpret social phenomena in their practical settings.

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Teaching:

• Both departments boast researchers and lecturers recognized for their contributions to their respective fields.

• Students receive personalized guidance and support through seminars, feedback sessions, and individual tutorials.

• The program utilizes a blend of teaching methods, including interactive lectures, group discussions, and practical workshops.

• Students benefit from their peers' diverse backgrounds and experiences through collaborative learning opportunities.

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Careers:

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Examples include:

• Community Development Worker: Planning and implementing community initiatives, addressing social issues, and empowering communities.
• Youth Worker: Delivering youth programs, engaging young people, and advocating for their needs and rights.
• Social Researcher: Conducting research on social issues, collecting and analyzing data, and informing policy and practice.
• Project Manager: Leading community development projects, managing resources, and ensuring project success.
• Policy Analyst: Contributing to policy development, analyzing the impact of policies on communities, and advocating for socially just solutions.

• Goldsmiths, University of London, is ranked among the top 10 universities in the UK for Anthropology, ensuring students receive instruction from recognized experts in the field.

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Annual tuition fees These are the fees for students starting their programme in the 2024/2025 academic year. Home - full-time: £10350 Home - part-time: £5175 International - full-time: £19520 Additional costs There may also be specific additional costs associated with your programme. Funding opportunities