Anthropology compares different ways of life. Anthropologists provide ‘insider’ perspective on human behaviour by observing the lives of others, living with them, sharing their experiences and discussing their perspectives.
Anthropologists specialise in analysing, documenting and creating social changes, and can assist in areas such as climate change, mining, social policy, Indigenous issues and development aid.
Some of the topics you’ll study from an anthropological view are:
Examples of elective units:
(subject to availability)
With Monash’s impressive international links, you’ll get the opportunity to venture into contexts where you can apply your expertise. Recently our staff and students have travelled to environments in outback Australia, Indonesia, Iran and Timor-Leste – just to name a few.
The Monash Arts Global Immersion Guarantee (GIG) is an award-winning initiative that will enable you to explore first-hand the relationships between society, technology and the environment. It’s a two-week, funded study trip for all eligible first-year Monash Arts, single or double degree students to one of six destinations – China, India, Indonesia, Italy, Malaysia or the Pacific Islands.
When you study anthropology at Monash, you’ll learn from renowned experts who are informing global conversations about some of the most pressing issues of our time. For example, our scholars have achieved international standing in the field of medical anthropology, which includes reproductive trade, and the movement of patients across borders to avoid legal regulations on services such as commercial surrogacy or sex selection.
Anthropology is the study of human cultural diversity, and the work of our anthropologists reflects that diversity. For example, research on sandy cays in the Torres Straits will provide important insights for communities around the world searching for ways to build more resilient communities against climate change.
Other areas where our research is making an impact is in tuberculosis care and prevention, global mental health and biobank ethics. Our anthropologists are passionate about their work and the contribution they can make to help bring communities and societies together.
Studying anthropology opens up career opportunities in:
This area of study is offered in the following courses or can be taken where you have 8 free electives. To see if you can take this area of study within a double degree select from the course offering below.
Study anthropology at Monash
Traditionally, studies have focused on the societies of Australia, Asia and the Pacific, but more recently we have become interested in phenomena in a far greater range of areas.
Career options
Overseas opportunities
Anthropologists travel extensively as part of their work. Monash anthropologists have travelled to outback Australia, Indonesia, Iran, Timor-Leste and many other locations.