Faculty of Behavioural and Cultural Studies Anthropology – Bachelor 75%
The degree programme in Anthropology centres around the comparative study of societies and cultures. The aim of the programme is to understand and be able to describe commonalities and differences in the ways in which humans live and think.
Facts & Formalities
| Degree | Bachelor of Arts |
| Type of programme | Undergraduate |
| Start of programme | Winter semester only |
| Standard period of study | 6 semesters |
| Language(s) of instruction | German and English |
| Fees and contributions | 151.05 € / Semester |
| Application procedure | Subjects with no admission restrictions |
| Application deadlines | Information about deadlines can be obtained after you have put together a degree program. |
| Part-time option | Yes |
Course Content
The Bachelor’s degree programme in Anthropology provides students with a theoretically- and empirically-based education in Anthropology, equipping graduates to seek positions in careers that require the ability to work extremely independently or to pursue a Master’s degree as a further qualification. The general objective of the degree programme is an understanding of dynamic cultural and societal processes and contexts for actions, particularly from the perspective of the persons involved. In addition, the degree programme provides students with the key qualifications needed for taking a reflective approach to globally-networked practices. In particular, students will develop the ability to critically examine apparently universal thought processes, value systems, and practices in the context of their specific cultural origins. Of particular significance in achieving this are field research and analysis of the underlying concept of culture, along with a familiarity with anthropological/ethnological, societal, and epistemological approaches. The range of topics covered reaches from ritual and performance research to medical anthropology, from media anthropology to political ecology (environment), and from cultural identity to intercultural ethics. Further areas of focus include social structure, economy and trade, migration and urbanisation, and transculturalism.
Course Structure
The degree programme is divided into four sections:
- Introductory
- Intermediate I
- Intermediate II
- Specialisation
The Introductory section (1st semester) will provide students with theoretical basics and an introduction to the subject matter. In addition, students will have the opportunity to expand their knowledge within established research fields and through studies of particularly influential individual anthropologists or theoretical approaches to anthropology.
The Intermediate I section, (2nd and 3rd semesters), provides instruction in regional studies and anthropological research methods, in particular, field research, and a reflective and self-critical analysis of the student’s own normative standards and learning traditions.
The lectures offered in the Intermediate II section (2nd - 4th semesters) provide instruction in the basic terminologies and theories of the four major areas of focus within Anthropology studies at Heidelberg University and provide students with the opportunity to obtain further fundamental subject-specific knowledge.
The areas of focus are:
- Religion – Ritual – Performance
- Politics – Economy – Globalisation
- Media – Aesthetics – Art
- Society – Nature – Health
The Specialisation section (4th and 5th semesters) provides students with the opportunity to specialise in a particular area of anthropology, which may serve as the topic for the Bachelor's thesis, which will be written during the 6th semester. The elective module offers students an opportunity for more in-depth study in their chosen specialisation and/or the option for simplified recognition of courses taken during study abroad. The internship (4th/5th semester) provides students with their first professional work experience and gives them the opportunity to reflect upon this experience from the perspective of the knowledge acquired during their studies. And finally, the cross-disciplinary skills courses provide an opportunity for learning foreign languages or for enrolling in career-related seminars or cross-disciplinary courses.
My Way To Application And Admission
Via the button “Select subject and apply +” you can add this subject to the study program finder's watch list. There you will find information on application, admission and enrolment tailored to your individual application profile, and can also access the application platform. Please observe the respective dates and deadlines.