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The MPhil in social anthropology was a rigorous and incredibly rewarding introduction to the discipline. I came to the programme having had limited exposure to anthropological theories and methods. Through an intense course schedule spanning core themes in anthropology with many regionally diverse case studies, my anthropological understanding and engagement steadily grew. This was helped through the seminar and tutorial system that provided regular feedback on my ideas and work. I was able to continue developing my own research interests through the dissertation and teaching within the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology. The MPhil was undoubtedly an academically challenging 11-months, and it was the stimulating intellectual environment within Cambridge and departmental support for a wide array of topics, that encouraged me to apply for the PhD.
The transition from MPhil to PhD was smooth. The 3-year PhD structure, with coursework and fieldwork planning in the first year, fieldwork in the second, and writing in the third, has been an easy process to navigate. My progression has been aided by great supervision and an inspiring cohort of fellow students and departmental staff. I feel very fortunate to have been introduced to social anthropology through Cambridge and look forward to continuing to develop my work within the Department.
Eleanor Foster - 2022 cohort (April 14, 2025)
My experience on the on the MPhil in Social Anthropology was really life changing. I feel incredibly lucky to not only have had the opportunity to do an MPhil in the Social Anthropology Department, but to have had the necessary guidance, help, and positive involvement within the department to continue onto the PhD. The Department is extremely attentive to all the details and questions students might have, especially for someone coming from abroad and unfamiliar with the school.
For me, what really made a difference were my supervisors and group supervisor. When having meetings with them, they really take their time to understand my thinking process and help me put my ideas into perspective, asking the right questions that push my thoughts and fuel my motivation for my own work. My supervisors are not only respected academics and researchers, but approachable individuals who are concerned with my research and personal growth, and I am eternally thankful for them.
Being an MPhil student in the Department was really satisfactory. I highly recommend this Department, not only for the extraordinary and respected research that brews here (which is what might have inspired any of us at the very beginning), but because the staff and environment really make it a possible and enjoyable experience.
Edurne Sosa El Fakih - 2023 cohort (April 14, 2025)
Enrolling in the MPhil in Social Anthropology was a great decision. It’s an ambitious and challenging program but the structure of the course and the people you find yourself studying alongside make it a really engaging year.
The lectures and readings introduced us to the core ideas in anthropology, which we were then encouraged to analyse and challenge in seminars and our own research projects. The teaching and administrative staff were very supportive and the university at large offers a constant series of events and opportunities. I’d recommend the course to anyone looking to develop their knowledge of social anthropology and critical thinking skills more broadly.
Kevin Yildirim - 2018-19 cohort (April 14, 2025)