Study the Master of Arts (Coursework) (MA(Coursework)) in Anthropology
Study with researchers bringing current questions to life
At Otago, you will learn alongside active researchers and award-winning teachers who bring their research into the classroom. Our Anthropology research spans areas including Pacific societies, globalisation, health, reproduction, religion, money and cultural politics. You will engage with current debates while exploring the questions that shape your own academic interests.
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Programme details
Regulations for the Degree of Master of Arts (Coursework) (MA(Coursework))
Admission to the Programme
- Admission to the programme shall be subject to the approval of the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Humanities).
- Every applicant must have been awarded a bachelor’s degree majoring in the subject or subjects of study proposed with an average grade of at least B or have alternative qualifications or experience acceptable to the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Humanities).
Structure of the Programme
- The degree may be awarded in any of the subjects listed in the MA(Coursework) Schedule. With the approval of the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Humanities) the degree may be awarded in a subject not listed in the MA(Coursework) Schedule.
- The programme of study shall consist of 180 points of approved papers at 400 and 500-level including at least two 500-level HUMS papers (worth 60 points).
- With approval of the Dean, Director, Head of School, or Head of Programme concerned, the programme of study may consist of 120 points of approved papers at 400 and 500-level including at least two 500-level HUMS papers (worth 60 points), and a 60 point research dissertation or studio project.
- With the permission of the Dean, Director, Head of School, or Head of Programme concerned, a candidate may substitute for one required paper a paper of another subject at the same level.
- A candidate shall, before commencing the research dissertation or studio option, secure the approval of the Dean, Director, Head of the School or Head of Programme concerned for the topic, the supervisor(s), and the proposed course of the investigation.
- A candidate may not present a research dissertation or studio project which has previously been accepted for another degree.
Duration of the Programme
A candidate shall normally follow a programme of either twelve or eighteen months of full-time study and not more than thirty-six months of part-time study.
Exceptions to the normal duration of a programme shall be permitted only with the approval of the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Humanities) and no programme of study shall exceed five calendar years from the date of first admission.
Examination of the Research Dissertation, or Studio Project
- The MA(Coursework) Coordinator (or nominee) shall appoint a Convener of Examiners who shall oversee the examination of each research dissertation or studio project.
- The research dissertation or studio project shall be examined by at least two examiners, who may both be internal to the University.
- Where both examiners are internal to the University, the examined research dissertation or studio project shall be subject to external moderation.
- The candidate's supervisor shall not be an examiner.
- Each examiner shall supply a written report on the research dissertation or studio project and recommend a mark and grade on the basis of the work as submitted.
- Where examiners cannot agree on a result, the Dean, Head of School or Head of Programme concerned should so report to the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Humanities) or nominee who shall arrive at a decision after consulting a referee who should normally be external to the University.
Withdrawal from the Programme
Where a candidate withdraws from the programme after completing 120 points, the Pro- Vice Chancellor (Humanities) or nominee may recommend the award of the Postgraduate Diploma in Arts Subjects.
Level of Award of the Degree
The degree may be awarded with distinction or with credit.
Variations
The Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Humanities) may in exceptional circumstances approve a course of study which does not comply with these regulations.
Note: The due date for applications for first enrolment in the programme is 10 December. Late applications will be considered.
Explore more in Anthropology
Learn where this subject can take you and discover the full range of study options, from undergraduate programmes to postgraduate pathways.
Career opportunities
Your postgraduate qualification in anthropology opens doors to meaningful roles. You’ll emerge ready for advanced inquiry, leadership and collaboration.
Possible career pathways:
- Applied cultural researcher in governmental or non-governmental organisations
- Policy advisor or analyst focusing on social, health or cultural issues
- Heritage or museum specialist engaging with communities and material culture
- Consultant for organisations working with indigenous, migrant or global communities
- Academic researcher or lecturer in anthropology or related fields
Investigate contemporary questions through advanced Anthropology study
The dissertation pathway gives you the opportunity to devise your own research topic and explore it in depth with an experienced supervisor. You will investigate an approved question, engage critically with relevant research and produce a substantial dissertation of up to 20,000 words. You can also choose a papers-only pathway, giving you greater emphasis on advanced coursework.
