Anthropology

What is this Structured Elective about?

The Structured Elective in Anthropology is an introduction to key themes in the discipline of anthropology – sometimes defined as the study of what makes us human. Anthropology includes four sub-disciplines or fields; biological anthropology, cultural/social anthropology, linguistic anthropology and archaeology. Anthropology is an introduction to the diversity of humanity past and present and an essential perspective for imagining futures in our global and ever-changing world.

Why should I take this Structured Elective?

Anthropology is the study of what makes us human and what humans do – in one memorable definition it has been called the ‘comparative study of common sense’. As such, it should be of interest to all students. How do different societies work? What function do rituals serve? How can we understand different traditions and practices? Why do art styles, stories, religions and customs vary? Anthropology is often considered to have a double vision: by studying other cultures we get a better sense of the contingent character of our own. In this structured elective you can take introductory and more advanced modules in archaeology, biological anthropology, social anthropology as well as anthropology as a whole chosen from across three Colleges and five Schools – a clear indication of the multi- and inter-disciplinary character of anthropology.

How would this Structured Elective benefit me?

In an increasingly globalised world effective, ethical citizens will encounter differences on a regular basis. Negotiating and understanding different forms of society, behaviour and belief will be fundamental skills for all graduates whatever their primary degree.

How do I take the modules in this Structured Elective?

To earn this Structured Elective, you must take the specified modules in or after 2022/23 as Electives and not as Core or Option modules.

Over the course of your undergraduate studies,  you will have the opportunity to take elective modules in each year of your programme, so if you wish to undertake this Structured Elective in Anthropology, you must ensure that at least three of your elective choices (15 credits) are from the list of modules below. It is recommended that modules are taken in the order of level 1, level 2, level 3.

Students who successfully complete 15 credits in Anthropology will have this automatically noted on their final UCD degree transcript. The transcript will state that you have completed 'Structured Elective in Anthropology’, in addition to your main degree subjects.

Module listing updated July 2023