Primary tabs
After initially being adamant on continuing directly to from my undergraduate studies to a PhD, the MPhil in Social Anthropological Research proved essential for strengthening my theoretical knowledge of the discipline and accruing more much-needed fieldwork experience. The combination of a dissertation and two shorter essays enabled me to test out and articulate new ideas without yet needing to commit to one overarching topic or research question. This structure also promotes productive supervision discussions and ongoing feedback.
Transferring to the PhD in Social Anthropology requires a high standard of submitted written work that must be prepared and polished throughout the academic year. However, starting early and ideally going into the MPhil with a body of completed background reading to draw from will result in a year without last-minute cramming that delivers you to your doctoral studies as a far more confident researcher. In general, postgraduate studies in Anthropology at Cambridge also open a number of doors for connecting with academics both within and beyond the university and do not require letting go of hobbies or a social life.
Tarina Franklin - 2023 cohort (April 14, 2025)
The MPhil Social Anthropological Research was a demanding, intellectually rigorous course and an excellent opportunity to understand how Cambridge worked before continuing onto the PhD. The MPhil exposed me to debates at the forefront of the discipline, such as the anthropology of infrastructure; of violence; of history and memory.
Collaborating, debating and discussing ideas with my course mates was a highlight of the MPhil in Social Anthropological Research. There was also space to explore and deepen my understanding of specialised interest areas which I then developed into a successful PhD proposal. The core seminars included sessions on presenting research, corporate ethnography, conservation and the not-for-profit industry, which were particularly insightful for future career plans after my PhD.
Samantha Hartley - 2023 cohort (April 14, 2025)
I have definitely grown professionally during this year. I gained confidence in important aspects such as speaking in class and doing presentations - a personal aspect that I am proud of. Most importantly, with the help of my supervisor, I was able to frame my research interests within current anthropological debates and reflect on how my research could contribute to the discipline in a wider sense. The MPhil in Social Anthropological Research provided me with stepping stones to write and make sense of prior fieldwork experiences and research interests. This is a key lesson and skill I plan to use in my pursuit of doing a PhD.
Anel Lopez De Romana - 2021 cohort (April 14, 2025)