Social Anthropology - Master of Science programme

The programme helps you understand how people create meaning, build communities and respond to global challenges. You’ll study key theories and debates in anthropology, learn how to design and carry out your own research, and develop practical skills for working in diverse environments.

Whether you’re aiming for a career in research, policy, development or social innovation, this programme gives you the knowledge and experience to make a difference. 

The Department of Sociology

The course is offered by the Department of Sociology in the picturesque Paradiset campus area in Lund. The building combines modern lecture halls, group rooms, and study spaces – just a short walk from the Social Sciences Library (Sambib) and the University Library (UB), several popular cafés and the city centre.

The programme is taught in English and combines lectures, seminars, group work and independent study. You’ll learn through discussion, critical reading and hands-on research. Ethnographic fieldwork is a key part of the training, and you’ll be encouraged to explore real-world issues.

You will also develop transferable skills like problem-solving, analytical thinking and clear communication – useful in many careers.

With a Master’s degree in Social Anthropology, you’ll be ready for a wide range of careers. Graduates work in government, NGOs, international organisations, and private companies. You’ll be equipped to work with policy, development, research, or community engagement.

The programme also prepares you for doctoral studies and a future academic career. 

Prerequisites

A Bachelor’s degree with social sciences as the main field of study, including at least 60 credits in Social Anthropology. Oral and written English language proficiency equivalent to English 6 from Swedish upper-secondary school is a requirement.

Selection criteria

The applicant’s estimated capacity to complete the programme is the primary criterion for selection. The selection process takes into consideration previous grades awarded (grades on courses and degree project for Bachelor’s degree) and a statement of purpose (according to the template). A particular emphasis is given to previous grades awarded.

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 270,000
First payment: SEK 67,500

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.

Lund University Global Scholarship Programme

The Lund University Global Scholarship programme is a merit-based and selective scholarship targeted at top academic students from countries outside the EU/EEA.

Lund University Global Scholarship

African Research Universities Alliance (ARUA) Scholarship

Within the framework of the Lund University Global Scholarship programme, the University also offers the African Research Universities Alliance (ARUA) Scholarship targeted at top academic students from selected African research universities. 

ARUA Scholarship

Swedish Institute Scholarship: Global professionals

The Swedish Institute offers scholarships to international students from certain countries who are applying for select Master's programmes in Sweden. 

Scholarship information on the Swedish Institute website 

Country-specific scholarships and funding options

Lund University has agreements with scholarship organisations and funding bodies in different countries, which may allow applicants to apply for funding or scholarships in their home countries for their studies at Lund University. Most agreements are intended for Master’s applicants, although certain opportunities may also be available to Bachelor’s students.

Country-specific scholarships

External scholarships

In addition to scholarships offered by Lund University or through its partner agreements, there are external opportunities. On the page below, you’ll find examples of organisations that may provide financial support for international students from specific countries. 

External scholarships