Programme Specification
MA Anthropology
Academic Year 2022/23
A programme specification is required for any programme on which a student may be registered. All programmes of the University are subject to the University's Quality Assurance processes. All degrees are awarded by Queen's University Belfast.
Programme Title | MA Anthropology | Final Award (exit route if applicable for Postgraduate Taught Programmes) |
Master of Arts | |||||||||||
Programme Code | ANT-MA-AN | UCAS Code | HECoS Code |
100437 - Social anthropology - 100 |
ATAS Clearance Required | No | |||||||||||||
Mode of Study | Full Time or Part Time | |||||||||||||
Type of Programme | Postgraduate | Length of Programme |
Full Time - 1 Academic Year Part Time - 3 Academic Years |
Total Credits for Programme | 180 | |||||||||
Exit Awards available | No |
Institute Information
Teaching Institution |
Queen's University Belfast |
School/Department |
History, Anthropology, Philosophy and Politics |
Quality Code Higher Education Credit Framework for England |
Level 7 |
Subject Benchmark Statements The Frameworks for Higher Education Qualifications of UK Degree-Awarding Bodies |
Anthropology (2015) |
Accreditations (PSRB) |
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No accreditations (PSRB) found. |
Regulation Information
Does the Programme have any approved exemptions from the University General Regulations N/A |
Programme Specific Regulations N/A |
Students with protected characteristics N/A |
Are students subject to Fitness to Practise Regulations (Please see General Regulations) No |
Educational Aims Of Programme
use their advanced qualification in this field to (a) strongly increase their opportunities to gain relevant graduate employment,and (b) as a foundation for doctoral research, having developed
an advanced knowledge and understanding of a range of theoretical perspectives in Social Anthropology and the study of Cognition and Culture and how they have changed over time
an advanced understanding and experience of some of the research methods used in Social Anthropology and the study of Cognition and Culture,
an advanced understanding of social and cultural differences and similarities and how they arise, are transmitted and develop,
an advanced appreciation of the value of Anthropology and the study of Cognition and Culture as a tool for understanding and engaging with issues of contemporary public concern,
an advanced understanding of the selected specialist area
Learning Outcomes
Learning Outcomes: Cognitive SkillsOn the completion of this course successful students will be able to: |
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analyse and discuss relevant academic texts |
Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies These skills are taught by means of direct instruction and discussion, reading assignments, group work, and feedback on written work and presentations. Methods of Assessment They are assessed primarily through written assignments such as coursework essays and the MA dissertation. |
Learn to react appropriately to feedback to presentations and written work. |
Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies These skills are taught by means of direct instruction and discussion, reading assignments, group work, and feedback on written work and presentations. Methods of Assessment They are assessed primarily through written assignments such as coursework essays and the MA dissertation. |
Successfully engage in group work |
Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies These skills are taught by means of direct instruction and discussion, reading assignments, group work, and feedback on written work and presentations. Methods of Assessment They are assessed primarily through written assignments such as coursework essays and the MA dissertation. |
Read and critically assess relevant academic sources |
Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies These skills are taught by means of direct instruction and discussion, reading assignments, group work, and feedback on written work and presentations. Methods of Assessment They are assessed primarily through written assignments such as coursework essays and the MA dissertation. |
Learning Outcomes: Transferable SkillsOn the completion of this course successful students will be able to: |
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Possess skills in written communication and self-expression. |
Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies The discipline of Anthropology encourages and develops independence of thought and criticality through its radical questioning of cultural and psychological assumptions. Skills in verbal communication, research ethics, working with others, listening and discussing are developed through workshops and seminars. Methods of Assessment Although not formally assessed, some of the skills listed have positive consequences for work that is formally assessed (in that, for instance, good social skills can make a student a better fieldworker, which is reflected in the quality of their dissertation, and skills in management of time and work, and wordprocessing skills, can be reflected in the quality of all written assignments). |
Present written work. |
Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies The discipline of Anthropology encourages and develops independence of thought and criticality through its radical questioning of cultural and psychological assumptions. Skills in verbal communication, research ethics, working with others, listening and discussing are developed through workshops and seminars. Methods of Assessment Although not formally assessed, some of the skills listed have positive consequences for work that is formally assessed (in that, for instance, good social skills can make a student a better fieldworker, which is reflected in the quality of their dissertation, and skills in management of time and work, and wordprocessing skills, can be reflected in the quality of all written assignments). |
Retrieve information from bibliographic and other sources. |
Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies The discipline of Anthropology encourages and develops independence of thought and criticality through its radical questioning of cultural and psychological assumptions. Skills in verbal communication, research ethics, working with others, listening and discussing are developed through workshops and seminars. Methods of Assessment Although not formally assessed, some of the skills listed have positive consequences for work that is formally assessed (in that, for instance, good social skills can make a student a better fieldworker, which is reflected in the quality of their dissertation, and skills in management of time and work, and wordprocessing skills, can be reflected in the quality of all written assignments). |
Question assumptions, and analyse and criticise arguments. |
Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies The discipline of Anthropology encourages and develops independence of thought and criticality through its radical questioning of cultural and psychological assumptions. Skills in verbal communication, research ethics, working with others, listening and discussing are developed through workshops and seminars. Methods of Assessment Although not formally assessed, some of the skills listed have positive consequences for work that is formally assessed (in that, for instance, good social skills can make a student a better fieldworker, which is reflected in the quality of their dissertation, and skills in management of time and work, and wordprocessing skills, can be reflected in the quality of all written assignments). |
Plan Research (setting research questions, apply professional ethical codes of conduct; scheduling, budgeting, risk assessment). |
Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies The discipline of Anthropology encourages and develops independence of thought and criticality through its radical questioning of cultural and psychological assumptions. Skills in verbal communication, research ethics, working with others, listening and discussing are developed through workshops and seminars. Methods of Assessment Although not formally assessed, some of the skills listed have positive consequences for work that is formally assessed (in that, for instance, good social skills can make a student a better fieldworker, which is reflected in the quality of their dissertation, and skills in management of time and work, and wordprocessing skills, can be reflected in the quality of all written assignments). |
Develop field research skills, such as establishing contact and rapport with people, asking questions sensitively, conducting interviews, using questionnaires, and engaging in participant observation. |
Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies The discipline of Anthropology encourages and develops independence of thought and criticality through its radical questioning of cultural and psychological assumptions. Skills in verbal communication, research ethics, working with others, listening and discussing are developed through workshops and seminars. Methods of Assessment Although not formally assessed, some of the skills listed have positive consequences for work that is formally assessed (in that, for instance, good social skills can make a student a better fieldworker, which is reflected in the quality of their dissertation, and skills in management of time and work, and wordprocessing skills, can be reflected in the quality of all written assignments). |
Develop quantitative skills in research design and statistical analysis and interpretation. (Cognition & Culture strand) |
Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies The discipline of Anthropology encourages and develops independence of thought and criticality through its radical questioning of cultural and psychological assumptions. Skills in verbal communication, research ethics, working with others, listening and discussing are developed through workshops and seminars. Methods of Assessment Although not formally assessed, some of the skills listed have positive consequences for work that is formally assessed (in that, for instance, good social skills can make a student a better fieldworker, which is reflected in the quality of their dissertation, and skills in management of time and work, and wordprocessing skills, can be reflected in the quality of all written assignments). |
Ability to work independently and with others. |
Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies The discipline of Anthropology encourages and develops independence of thought and criticality through its radical questioning of cultural and psychological assumptions. Skills in verbal communication, research ethics, working with others, listening and discussing are developed through workshops and seminars. Methods of Assessment Although not formally assessed, some of the skills listed have positive consequences for work that is formally assessed (in that, for instance, good social skills can make a student a better fieldworker, which is reflected in the quality of their dissertation, and skills in management of time and work, and wordprocessing skills, can be reflected in the quality of all written assignments). |
Skills in reflecting on and clarifying personal values. |
Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies The discipline of Anthropology encourages and develops independence of thought and criticality through its radical questioning of cultural and psychological assumptions. Skills in verbal communication, research ethics, working with others, listening and discussing are developed through workshops and seminars. Methods of Assessment Although not formally assessed, some of the skills listed have positive consequences for work that is formally assessed (in that, for instance, good social skills can make a student a better fieldworker, which is reflected in the quality of their dissertation, and skills in management of time and work, and wordprocessing skills, can be reflected in the quality of all written assignments). |
Group discussion, listening, conversing effectively. |
Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies The discipline of Anthropology encourages and develops independence of thought and criticality through its radical questioning of cultural and psychological assumptions. Skills in verbal communication, research ethics, working with others, listening and discussing are developed through workshops and seminars. Methods of Assessment Although not formally assessed, some of the skills listed have positive consequences for work that is formally assessed (in that, for instance, good social skills can make a student a better fieldworker, which is reflected in the quality of their dissertation, and skills in management of time and work, and wordprocessing skills, can be reflected in the quality of all written assignments). |
Wordprocessing skills. |
Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies The discipline of Anthropology encourages and develops independence of thought and criticality through its radical questioning of cultural and psychological assumptions. Skills in verbal communication, research ethics, working with others, listening and discussing are developed through workshops and seminars. Methods of Assessment Although not formally assessed, some of the skills listed have positive consequences for work that is formally assessed (in that, for instance, good social skills can make a student a better fieldworker, which is reflected in the quality of their dissertation, and skills in management of time and work, and wordprocessing skills, can be reflected in the quality of all written assignments). |
Management of time and work |
Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies The discipline of Anthropology encourages and develops independence of thought and criticality through its radical questioning of cultural and psychological assumptions. Skills in verbal communication, research ethics, working with others, listening and discussing are developed through workshops and seminars. Methods of Assessment Although not formally assessed, some of the skills listed have positive consequences for work that is formally assessed (in that, for instance, good social skills can make a student a better fieldworker, which is reflected in the quality of their dissertation, and skills in management of time and work, and wordprocessing skills, can be reflected in the quality of all written assignments). |
Social skills. |
Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies The discipline of Anthropology encourages and develops independence of thought and criticality through its radical questioning of cultural and psychological assumptions. Skills in verbal communication, research ethics, working with others, listening and discussing are developed through workshops and seminars. Methods of Assessment Although not formally assessed, some of the skills listed have positive consequences for work that is formally assessed (in that, for instance, good social skills can make a student a better fieldworker, which is reflected in the quality of their dissertation, and skills in management of time and work, and wordprocessing skills, can be reflected in the quality of all written assignments). |
Learning Outcomes: Knowledge & UnderstandingOn the completion of this course successful students will be able to: |
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Oral communication and self-expression. |
Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies The discipline of Anthropology encourages and develops independence of thought and criticality through its radical questioning of cultural and psychological assumptions. Skills in verbal communication, research ethics, working with others, listening and discussing are developed through workshops and seminars. Methods of Assessment Although not formally assessed, some of the skills listed have positive consequences for work that is formally assessed (in that, for instance, good social skills can make a student a better fieldworker, which is reflected in the quality of their dissertation, and skills in management of time and work, and wordprocessing skills, can be reflected in the quality of all written assignments). |
Anthropology of Conflict: An understanding of the main themes in and theoretical approaches to the study of conflict, and of how these approaches are reflected in ethnography. |
Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies N/A Methods of Assessment N/A |
Cognition and Culture: In-depth knowledge and understanding of the main analytical approaches in cognition and culture |
Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies N/A Methods of Assessment N/A |
Ethnomusicology: An understanding of how ethnomusicologists and anthropologists have explored different forms of music and music making in different parts of the world, as well as the connections and influences between these practices |
Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies Subject-specific knowledge and understanding are generated through workshops and seminars, through practical application, directed reading and private study. Methods of Assessment They are assessed through short essays, extended essays, learning journals and other assignments which might be set by module convenors, and through the dissertation. Written and verbal feedback given to students on their performance in these activities is used to elaborate upon assessments of their work and to give direction and encouragement for further development of knowledge and understanding. |
The Anthropology of Ireland: An understanding of current and recent anthropological debates in the study of Ireland, and of how these debates articulate with the wider discipline of anthropology. |
Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies Subject-specific knowledge and understanding are generated through workshops and seminars, through practical application, directed reading and private study. Methods of Assessment They are assessed through short essays, extended essays, learning journals and other assignments which might be set by module convenors, and through the dissertation. Written and verbal feedback given to students on their performance in these activities is used to elaborate upon assessments of their work and to give direction and encouragement for further development of knowledge and understanding. |
In-depth understanding of a selected specialist area in social anthropology as follows: |
Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies Subject-specific knowledge and understanding are generated through workshops and seminars, through practical application, directed reading and private study. Methods of Assessment They are assessed through short essays, extended essays, learning journals and other assignments which might be set by module convenors, and through the dissertation. Written and verbal feedback given to students on their performance in these activities is used to elaborate upon assessments of their work and to give direction and encouragement for further development of knowledge and understanding. |
Detailed knowledge of key ethnographic texts in social anthropology and an understanding of how theoretical debates both influence and are reflected in ethnographic writing. |
Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies Subject-specific knowledge and understanding are generated through workshops and seminars, through practical application, directed reading and private study. Methods of Assessment They are assessed through short essays, extended essays, learning journals and other assignments which might be set by module convenors, and through the dissertation. Written and verbal feedback given to students on their performance in these activities is used to elaborate upon assessments of their work and to give direction and encouragement for further development of knowledge and understanding. |
Detailed knowledge and experience of anthropological research methods, including qualitative and quantitative research, the production of ethnography and research writing. |
Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies Subject-specific knowledge and understanding are generated through workshops and seminars, through practical application, directed reading and private study. Methods of Assessment They are assessed through short essays, extended essays, learning journals and other assignments which might be set by module convenors, and through the dissertation. Written and verbal feedback given to students on their performance in these activities is used to elaborate upon assessments of their work and to give direction and encouragement for further development of knowledge and understanding. |
Introduction to the main analytical approaches in cognition and culture |
Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies Subject-specific knowledge and understanding are generated through workshops and seminars, through practical application, directed reading and private study. Methods of Assessment They are assessed through short essays, extended essays, learning journals and other assignments which might be set by module convenors, and through the dissertation. Written and verbal feedback given to students on their performance in these activities is used to elaborate upon assessments of their work and to give direction and encouragement for further development of knowledge and understanding. |
In-depth knowledge and understanding of the main analytical approaches in social anthropology and their impact on the discipline. |
Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies Subject-specific knowledge and understanding are generated through workshops and seminars, through practical application, directed reading and private study. Methods of Assessment They are assessed through short essays, extended essays, learning journals and other assignments which might be set by module convenors, and through the dissertation. Written and verbal feedback given to students on their performance in these activities is used to elaborate upon assessments of their work and to give direction and encouragement for further development of knowledge and understanding. |
Learning Outcomes: Subject SpecificOn the completion of this course successful students will be able to: |
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Construct data and analyse it from an anthropological perspective. |
Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies These skills are expected to have been developed through the students' undergraduate programmes in social anthropology and closely related subjects. They are further enhanced through the work they do on the Specialist MA programme, and taken to a level that would enable them to conduct research in social anthropology.Subject-specific skills are developed through the same methods as subject-specific knowledge and understanding; namely, workshops and seminars, practical application, directed reading and private study. Methods of Assessment Subject-specific skills are assessed through essays, learning journals, the dissertation and other written assignments. Written and verbal feedback given to students on their performance is used both to elaborate upon assessments of their work and to give direction and encouragement for further development of subject-specific skills. |
Understand, formulate and address anthropologically-informed questions about cultural similarity and diversity. |
Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies These skills are expected to have been developed through the students' undergraduate programmes in social anthropology and closely related subjects. They are further enhanced through the work they do on the Specialist MA programme, and taken to a level that would enable them to conduct research in social anthropology.Subject-specific skills are developed through the same methods as subject-specific knowledge and understanding; namely, workshops and seminars, practical application, directed reading and private study. Methods of Assessment Subject-specific skills are assessed through essays, learning journals, the dissertation and other written assignments. Written and verbal feedback given to students on their performance is used both to elaborate upon assessments of their work and to give direction and encouragement for further development of subject-specific skills. |
Understand the relationship between theory and ethnography. |
Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies These skills are expected to have been developed through the students' undergraduate programmes in social anthropology and closely related subjects. They are further enhanced through the work they do on the Specialist MA programme, and taken to a level that would enable them to conduct research in social anthropology.Subject-specific skills are developed through the same methods as subject-specific knowledge and understanding; namely, workshops and seminars, practical application, directed reading and private study. Methods of Assessment Subject-specific skills are assessed through essays, learning journals, the dissertation and other written assignments. Written and verbal feedback given to students on their performance is used both to elaborate upon assessments of their work and to give direction and encouragement for further development of subject-specific skills. |
Describe and critically evaluate anthropological arguments made by others |
Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies These skills are expected to have been developed through the students' undergraduate programmes in social anthropology and closely related subjects. They are further enhanced through the work they do on the Specialist MA programme, and taken to a level that would enable them to conduct research in social anthropology.Subject-specific skills are developed through the same methods as subject-specific knowledge and understanding; namely, workshops and seminars, practical application, directed reading and private study. Methods of Assessment Subject-specific skills are assessed through essays, learning journals, the dissertation and other written assignments. Written and verbal feedback given to students on their performance is used both to elaborate upon assessments of their work and to give direction and encouragement for further development of subject-specific skills. |
Understand, formulate and express anthropological ideas and arguments |
Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies These skills are expected to have been developed through the students' undergraduate programmes in social anthropology and closely related subjects. They are further enhanced through the work they do on the Specialist MA programme, and taken to a level that would enable them to conduct research in social anthropology.Subject-specific skills are developed through the same methods as subject-specific knowledge and understanding; namely, workshops and seminars, practical application, directed reading and private study. Methods of Assessment Subject-specific skills are assessed through essays, learning journals, the dissertation and other written assignments. Written and verbal feedback given to students on their performance is used both to elaborate upon assessments of their work and to give direction and encouragement for further development of subject-specific skills. |
Module Information
Stages and Modules
Module Title | Module Code | Level/ stage | Credits | Availability |
Duration | Pre-requisite | Assessment |
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S1 | S2 | Core | Option | Coursework % | Practical % | Examination % | ||||||
APPROACHES TO RESEARCH DESIGN | HAP7001 | 7 | 20 | YES | -- | 12 weeks | N | YES | -- | 100% | 0% | 0% |
Anthropology of Business: Designs for a New Age | ANT7003 | 7 | 20 | -- | YES | 12 weeks | N | -- | YES | 80% | 20% | 0% |
Anthropology of Conflict: Ireland and Beyond | ANT7023 | 7 | 20 | -- | YES | 12 weeks | N | -- | YES | 80% | 20% | 0% |
Dissertation | ANT7014 | 7 | 60 | YES | YES | 12 weeks | N | YES | -- | 100% | 0% | 0% |
The Anthropology of Music | ANT7013 | 7 | 20 | -- | YES | 12 weeks | N | -- | YES | 80% | 20% | 0% |
Advanced Anthropological Perspectives | ANT7008 | 7 | 20 | YES | -- | 12 weeks | N | YES | -- | 80% | 20% | 0% |
Ethnographic Writing | ANT7009 | 7 | 20 | YES | -- | 12 weeks | N | YES | -- | 80% | 20% | 0% |
Advanced Anthropological Methods | ANT7007 | 7 | 20 | -- | YES | 12 weeks | N | YES | -- | 100% | 0% | 0% |
Notes
Students must take 180 credits - 6 MODULES (THREE in Semester 1 and THREE in Semester 2) PLUS the MA Dissertation (60 credits).
Students are required to take FOUR CORE modules (THREE in semester 1 and TWO in semester 2 PLUS the MA Dissertation).
Students are required to take TWO Optional Modules from the list provided. Students will also be able to choose from a list of modules across the School and Faculty to support their specialisation.
Students should normally have passed all taught modules prior to progression to the dissertation.
“Students will be notified each academic year of the optional modules being offered in the following academic year. Students are advised that not all optional modules will necessarily be offered in each academic year. Also, the delivery of a module may be subject to a minimum number of enrolments as well as unforeseen circumstances (e.g. illness of a member of staff). The range and content of optional modules will change over time as degree programmes develop and students’ choice of optional modules may also be limited due to timetabling constraints.“