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Ethnography in Social Science

Course • Master's level • 15 credits

Social anthropology is vital for understanding how different cultures perceive and engage with the world. This course gives you an in-depth exploration of theories challenging basic assumptions of our own thinking by contrasting them with other ways of perceiving reality.

Application dates

Start

Autumn 2026

Level

Master's

Language

English

Place of study

Lund

Course code

SANN06

Application dates

In this course, you will explore contemporary anthropological theories that in one way or another challenge fundamental assumptions in modern Western thinking. Is “development” something self-evident or even positive? What do we really mean by “humanitarian”?  

In this course, you will explore:

  • Major theoretical developments in recent decades, including their historical and social context
  • How leading theoretical frameworks are engaged within mainstream research
  • How to critically assess and apply theoretical perspectives
  • How to identify gaps in knowledge and areas for future research

The course is part of the Master’s programme in Social Anthropology, but it can also be taken as a stand-alone course. 

Course syllabus

The syllabus contains the formal and legal details of the entire course. It’s a legal document outlining the course structure and requirements, intended mainly for administrative use.

Syllabus (PDF, new tab)

Course literature

The course literature listed may be updated up to eight weeks before the course begins.

Course literature SANN06 (PDF, New tab)

You will learn through a mix of lectures and seminars. Seminars are mandatory, as they give you the chance to discuss ideas, test your thinking, and learn from others. The course encourages independent thinking and active participation. The examination is a written take-home exam that covers the key themes and theoretical perspectives discussed during the course.

The course prepares you for further academic study or research, and is a strong foundation for careers in international organisations, NGOs, cultural institutions, or policy work – anywhere critical thinking and cultural insight are valued.

Autumn Semester 2026

Closed for applications. This application round runs from mid-March to mid–April.

Start

2 November 2026

2 Nov 2026

End

17 January 2027

17 Jan 2027

Form

Normal learning

Pace

Full time

Language

English

City

Lund

When and how to apply

There are different application rounds depending on the type of studies you are applying to, and whether you are an EU/EEA citizen or non-EU/EEA citizen. Before applying, make sure to carefully review the entry requirements and read the how to apply guide, including document instructions.

Entry requirements

Admission to the course requires the equivalent of a Swedish bachelor's degree with a major in social sciences, and 60 credits in social anthropology, sociology or an equivalent discipline.

Selection criteria

Seats are allocated according to: ECTS (HPAV): 100 %.

When and how to apply

There are different application rounds depending on the type of studies you are applying to, and whether you are an EU/EEA citizen or non-EU/EEA citizen. Before applying, make sure to carefully review the entry requirements and read the how to apply guide, including document instructions.

Tuition fees for non-EU/EEA citizens

Citizens of countries outside:

  • The European Union (EU)
  • The European Economic Area (EEA) and
  • Switzerland

are required to pay tuition fees. You pay an instalment of the tuition fee in advance of each
semester.

Tuition fees, payments and exemptions

Full programme/course tuition fee: SEK 33,750
First payment: SEK 33,750

Convert currency – xe.com

Note that you may also need to pay an application fee, or provide proof of exemption.

Application fee

No tuition fees for citizens of the EU, EEA and Switzerland

There are no tuition fees for citizens of the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland.

Contact us

Study Advisers at the Department of Sociology

Email: studievagledare@soc.lu.se