Cultural Anthropology
The Cultural Anthropology program at the University of Duke offers an in-depth and critically engaged exploration of human societies, belief systems, cultural practices and social transformations across the globe. Students investigate how people create meaning, negotiate identities and construct social relationships within diverse cultural settings. The curriculum emphasizes core competencies in cultural analysis, interpretive theory, ethnographic research and contextual understanding, enabling learners to examine both historical and contemporary cultural phenomena with academic rigor. By analyzing rituals, politics, economies, language, kinship and everyday life, students develop a nuanced understanding of how culture shapes human experience.
Throughout this four-year Bachelor of Arts program, students engage with global case studies, ethnographic texts, fieldwork exercises and theoretical frameworks that reveal the complexity of cultural systems. They explore topics such as globalization, migration, religion, inequality, gender, race, development and environmental relations, strengthening their ability to interpret cultural practices in local and global contexts. Faculty mentorship encourages independent inquiry, cross-disciplinary connections and ethically responsible research. By graduation, learners achieve academic growth supported by theoretical depth, research proficiency, critical insight and comparative understanding, preparing them for a broad range of professional and academic pathways.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Cultural Anthropology
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 05 January 2026
- Location: Duke University, United States
- Field of Study: Anthropology
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations in Cultural Anthropology
Introduction to Cultural Anthropology
Methods in Social and Cultural Research
Anthropology of Everyday Life
Global Perspectives on Human Societies
Year 2 – Developing Anthropological Skills & Perspectives
Theories of Culture and Society
Research Skills in Anthropological Inquiry
Anthropology of Religion, Politics or Economy
Ethnography and Cultural Interpretation
Year 3 – Advanced Analysis of Culture & Identity
Globalization and Social Change
Anthropology of Gender and Inequality
Migration, Mobility and Cultural Exchange
Seminar in Anthropological Theory
Year 4 – Specialization & Independent Research
Advanced Seminar in Cultural Anthropology
Anthropology of Contemporary Issues
Independent Research Project
Case Studies in Culture, Power and Representation
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program acquire strong analytical, interpretive and research-driven skills that prepare them for a wide range of careers in academic, cultural, social and global fields. Many pursue roles in nonprofit organizations, cultural and community programs, international development agencies and educational institutions, while others work in public policy, media, advocacy, marketing research, museums or social services. The program’s emphasis on ethnographic research, cultural interpretation and critical thinking equips graduates to understand complex social dynamics, support community engagement and contribute to culturally informed decision-making. Those who seek advanced academic training are well-prepared for graduate study in anthropology, sociology, public health, international relations or related interdisciplinary fields.
Why Choose This Program
This program is an excellent choice for students who want to understand how culture shapes human behavior, identity and social life through a rigorous, research-oriented academic framework. Its combination of theoretical study, ethnographic training and faculty mentorship offers learners deep cultural insight, strong analytical ability, context-based reasoning and evidence-driven interpretation, essential for navigating today’s interconnected and culturally diverse world. The structured four-year progression guides students from foundational knowledge to advanced specialization, enabling them to analyze cultural systems with depth and sensitivity. For individuals passionate about understanding people, cultures and global social change, this program provides a meaningful, engaging and intellectually transformative educational experience.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 (919) 684-8111
Email: admissions@duke.edu
Address: University of Duke, Durham, North Carolina, United States
