Visual, Material and Museum Anthropology
The Master of Science in Visual, Material, and Museum Anthropology at the University of Oxford is a full-time, one-year, on-campus program that offers students an in-depth exploration of visual anthropology, material culture, and museum studies. The program provides a unique opportunity to study how human cultures express themselves through visual media, material objects, and museum curation. Students will explore the role of artifacts, images, and media in shaping cultural identities, social structures, and historical narratives, and develop skills to analyze and curate collections in museums and cultural institutions.
Oxford’s MSc in Visual, Material, and Museum Anthropology combines anthropological theory with practical skills, preparing students for careers in museum curation, cultural heritage management, anthropological research, and visual culture studies. Graduates will be well-equipped to contribute to the preservation, interpretation, and presentation of cultural artifacts in both academic and public contexts.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Master of Science (MSc) in Visual, Material, and Museum Anthropology
- Degree Type: Master of Science (MSc)
- Duration: 1 Year
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Start Date: 05 January 2026
- Location: University of Oxford, United Kingdom
- Field of Study: Visual Arts
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
The MSc in Visual, Material, and Museum Anthropology offers core modules in anthropological theory, museum studies, visual anthropology, and material culture, with the option to specialize in areas such as museum curation, ethnographic media, or cultural heritage management. Students will gain hands-on experience through fieldwork, museum internships, and curation projects, allowing them to apply their academic learning to real-world settings. The program culminates in a research dissertation, where students will explore a specific topic related to material culture, museum practices, or visual anthropology.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the MSc in Visual, Material, and Museum Anthropology are well-prepared for careers in museum curation, cultural heritage management, anthropological research, and visual culture studies. Many alumni work in museums, galleries, research institutions, NGOs, or cultural consultancy, where they apply their expertise in material culture and visual anthropology. Others pursue doctoral studies in anthropology, museum studies, or art history. The program also prepares graduates for roles in education, cultural policy, and international organizations focused on cultural heritage preservation.
Why Choose This Program
The MSc in Visual, Material, and Museum Anthropology at the University of Oxford offers an exceptional opportunity to study visual culture and material practices in one of the world’s leading institutions for anthropology and museum studies. Oxford’s Anthropology Department provides access to world-class faculty, cutting-edge research, and a wealth of museum collections and visual materials. The program combines theoretical and practical approaches, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped to lead in the fields of museum curation, cultural heritage, and anthropological research.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +44 (0)1865 270000
Email: admissions@ox.ac.uk
Address: University of Oxford, University Parks, Oxford OX1 2JD, United Kingdom
