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M-SC-MASTER-OF-SCIENCE in Anthropology at Dibrugarh University
Dibrugarh, Assam
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About the Specialization
What is Anthropology at Dibrugarh University Dibrugarh?
This M.Sc Anthropology program at Dibrugarh University focuses on a holistic study of humanity, encompassing biological, social, cultural, and archaeological dimensions. Rooted in the rich cultural diversity of Northeast India, the program emphasizes regional anthropological contexts, making it highly relevant for understanding India''''s diverse populations. It uniquely blends theoretical foundations with practical fieldwork, preparing students for diverse roles in research, development, and cultural heritage. The program''''s interdisciplinary nature addresses the growing demand for professionals who can analyze complex human issues.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for science graduates, particularly those with a background in Anthropology, Biology, or related social sciences, seeking entry into research, academia, or development sectors. It also caters to individuals passionate about understanding human origins, societal structures, and cultural dynamics, aiming for careers in NGOs, government agencies, or public health in India. Professionals looking to specialize in areas like forensic anthropology, museum studies, or public health interventions will find the advanced electives particularly beneficial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect promising career paths in India as researchers, field investigators, cultural resource managers, social development officers, and museum professionals. Entry-level salaries can range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience in research institutions, government departments, and NGOs. Growth trajectories include leading development projects, academic positions, or specializing in forensic science. The program aligns with national priorities in tribal welfare, public health, and cultural preservation, enhancing employability in critical sectors.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Cultivate Interdisciplinary Foundational Knowledge- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage with the diverse core subjects like Physical Anthropology, Social Anthropology, and Research Methods. Form study groups to discuss complex theories and concepts, leveraging the program''''s unique blend of biological and social sciences. Attend introductory workshops on statistical software and ethnographic field techniques to build a strong practical base.
Tools & Resources
University Library resources, online academic journals (JSTOR, AnthroSource), introductory statistical software tutorials (R, SPSS), departmental seminars
Career Connection
A solid foundation ensures understanding of core anthropological issues, crucial for any research or development role, making you a well-rounded candidate for diverse entry-level positions.
Develop Early Fieldwork and Data Collection Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Participate enthusiastically in all practicum sessions, focusing on mastering anthropometric techniques, osteology, and basic archaeological survey methods. Seek opportunities for short-term field visits or volunteer work with local NGOs or museums to gain hands-on experience in data collection and community interaction.
Tools & Resources
Departmental lab equipment, local cultural institutions, community outreach programs, field note-taking apps
Career Connection
Practical skills in fieldwork and data collection are highly valued by research institutions, government agencies, and NGOs, enhancing your readiness for roles involving primary data generation.
Engage with Northeast Indian Cultural Contexts- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond classroom learning, actively explore the rich tribal cultures of Northeast India. Read extensively on regional ethnographies, attend local cultural festivals, and engage with community elders or experts. This deep contextual understanding is vital given the program''''s focus on the region.
Tools & Resources
Departmental research projects focused on NE India, local cultural centers, ethnographic documentaries, historical archives
Career Connection
Specialization in regional contexts makes graduates uniquely valuable to organizations working on tribal welfare, cultural preservation, and developmental projects in Northeast India, a niche but highly relevant market.
Intermediate Stage
Specialize Through Electives and Advanced Methods- (Semester 3)
Strategically choose elective courses (e.g., Ethno-medicine, Forensic Anthropology, Visual Anthropology) that align with your career aspirations. Simultaneously, dedicate time to mastering advanced research methods and statistical analysis. Consider working on a mini-project or review paper related to your chosen specialization under faculty guidance.
Tools & Resources
Advanced statistical software (SPSS, SAS), specialized anthropological databases, academic mentors in specific fields
Career Connection
Deepening expertise in a specific sub-field makes you a more attractive candidate for specialized roles in health, forensics, or cultural heritage management, setting you apart from generalists.
Seek Research Project & Internship Opportunities- (Semester 3)
Actively look for short-term research projects or internships with organizations like the Anthropological Survey of India, state museums, or NGOs involved in development/health. These experiences provide crucial practical exposure, networking opportunities, and a chance to apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings.
Tools & Resources
University career services, departmental networks, online internship portals (Internshala, LinkedIn), direct outreach to organizations
Career Connection
Internships are often direct pathways to placements, provide invaluable experience for your CV, and help you build a professional network within your chosen industry.
Participate in Academic Discussions & Conferences- (Semester 3)
Attend departmental seminars, workshops, and local/national anthropology conferences (e.g., those organized by Indian Anthropological Society). Present your research findings, even if preliminary, to gain confidence, receive feedback, and network with leading anthropologists and scholars in India.
Tools & Resources
Conference schedules (online, departmental notice boards), academic societies'''' websites, presentation software
Career Connection
Active participation demonstrates your commitment to the field, builds your academic profile, and opens doors for higher studies or research collaborations.
Advanced Stage
Excel in Dissertation and Viva Voce- (Semester 4)
Focus intensely on your dissertation, choosing a topic relevant to current anthropological issues or regional needs. Dedicate significant time to data analysis, rigorous writing, and preparing for a strong viva voce defense. Seek regular feedback from your supervisor and peers.
Tools & Resources
Research methodology books, academic writing guides, university''''s plagiarism checker, mock viva sessions
Career Connection
A well-executed dissertation is a powerful portfolio piece, showcasing your research capabilities and critical thinking, which are highly valued by employers and for doctoral admissions.
Network with Alumni and Industry Professionals- (Semester 4)
Leverage the Dibrugarh University alumni network to connect with graduates working in anthropology-related fields across India. Attend alumni meet-ups, informational interviews, and career fairs to gain insights into industry trends, job opportunities, and potential mentorship.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, university alumni portal, departmental alumni events
Career Connection
Networking is crucial for job search and career advancement in India, providing leads, advice, and potential referrals for placements.
Prepare for Placements or Further Studies- (Semester 4)
Actively prepare for job interviews by practicing common questions, refining your CV, and developing strong presentation skills. If considering PhD, research potential supervisors and funding opportunities in India or abroad. Tailor your application materials to specific roles or research interests.
Tools & Resources
University placement cell, online resume builders, interview preparation platforms, PhD program websites (UGC, individual university portals)
Career Connection
Proactive preparation ensures a smooth transition into your desired career path, whether it''''s immediate employment or continued academic pursuit, maximizing your post-graduation opportunities.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.A. / B.Sc. with Major in Anthropology or any other equivalent examination recognized by Dibrugarh University with minimum 45% marks in aggregate or minimum 50% marks in aggregate if Anthropology is not opted as major subject at undergraduate level.
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 80 Credits
Assessment: Internal: As per Dibrugarh University Regulations for PG Programmes under CBCS, based on attendance, assignments, mid-semester tests, External: End-Semester Examinations
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ANT-101C | General Anthropology (Physical Anthropology & Prehistoric Archaeology) | Core | 4 | Nature & Scope of Anthropology, Human Evolution, Primatology, Human Genetics, Archaeological Methods |
| ANT-102C | Social Anthropology-I (Culture & Society) | Core | 4 | Basic Concepts of Culture & Society, Marriage, Family, Kinship, Economic Anthropology, Political Anthropology, Religion & Ritual |
| ANT-103C | Research Methods in Anthropology | Core | 4 | Types of Research, Research Design, Data Collection Techniques, Sampling Methods, Statistical Methods |
| ANT-104C | Ecology and Environment in Anthropological Perspective | Core | 4 | Ecological Anthropology, Human Adaptation, Environmental Problems, Traditional Ecological Knowledge, Sustainable Development |
| ANT-105C | Human Growth, Development & Nutrition | Core | 4 | Human Growth Stages, Factors Affecting Growth, Nutritional Anthropology, Malnutrition & Disease, Public Health |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ANT-201C | Physical Anthropology (Biological & Forensic Anthropology) | Core | 4 | Human Variation, Racial Classification, Dermatoglyphics, Forensic Anthropology, Paleoanthropology |
| ANT-202C | Social Anthropology-II (Theories & Perspectives) | Core | 4 | Classical Theories (Evolutionism, Diffusionism), Functionalism & Structuralism, Symbolic Anthropology, Post-Modernism, Applied Anthropology |
| ANT-203C | Tribal Cultures of North East India | Core | 4 | Tribes of Northeast India (Distribution, Characteristics), Social Organization, Economic Life, Religion & Belief Systems, Culture Change |
| ANT-204C | Prehistoric Archaeology of India | Core | 4 | Palaeolithic Cultures of India, Mesolithic & Neolithic Periods, Indus Valley Civilization, Megalithic Cultures, Archaeological Sites & Methods |
| ANT-205C | Practicum in Anthropology | Lab/Fieldwork | 4 | Anthropometric Measurements, Osteology, Archaeological Site Survey, Data Analysis (Basic), Report Writing & Presentation |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ANT-301C | Anthropological Demography & Genetics | Core | 4 | Demographic Concepts & Measures, Population Structure, Genetic Markers & Traits, Population Genetics, Applied Human Genetics |
| ANT-302C | Advanced Research Methods | Core | 4 | Advanced Statistical Techniques, Computer Applications in Research, Qualitative Research Methods, Ethnographic Research Design, Data Interpretation & Report Writing |
| ANT-303C | Applied & Developmental Anthropology | Core | 4 | Concepts of Applied Anthropology, Development Theories & Models, Role of Anthropologists in Development, Health & Education Programs, Indigenous Knowledge & Development |
| ANT-304E | Social Demography of India | Elective (Choose 2 from 304E, 305E, 306E, 307E) | 4 | Population Growth in India, Fertility & Mortality Trends, Migration Patterns, Population Policy in India, Demographic Challenges |
| ANT-305E | Ethno-medicine & Public Health | Elective (Choose 2 from 304E, 305E, 306E, 307E) | 4 | Traditional Healing Systems, Health Beliefs & Practices, Disease Patterns, Public Health Issues in India, Medical Pluralism |
| ANT-306E | Forensic Anthropology & Crime | Elective (Choose 2 from 304E, 305E, 306E, 307E) | 4 | Skeletal Identification, Age & Sex Estimation, Trauma Analysis, Legal Aspects of Forensic Anthropology, Crime Scene Investigation |
| ANT-307E | Visual Anthropology | Elective (Choose 2 from 304E, 305E, 306E, 307E) | 4 | History of Visual Anthropology, Documentary Film & Ethnography, Ethnographic Photography, Visual Methods in Research, Media Representation of Culture |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ANT-401C | Population Genetics & Human Health | Core | 4 | Human Genetic Disorders, Genetic Counseling, Health Disparities, Epidemiology, Immunogenetics |
| ANT-402C | Current Trends in Anthropology | Core | 4 | Contemporary Anthropological Debates, Globalization & Culture, Digital Anthropology, Human Rights & Ethics, Indigenous Rights & Activism |
| ANT-403E | Museum Studies & Heritage Management | Elective (Choose 1 from 403E, 404E, 405E) | 4 | History of Museums & Collections, Collections Management, Conservation & Preservation, Heritage Legislation, Cultural Resource Management |
| ANT-404E | Gerontology & Ageing Studies | Elective (Choose 1 from 403E, 404E, 405E) | 4 | Biological & Social Aspects of Ageing, Geriatric Health, Social Support Systems for Elderly, Policies for Elderly in India, Cross-Cultural Ageing |
| ANT-405E | Gender & Society | Elective (Choose 1 from 403E, 404E, 405E) | 4 | Gender Concepts & Constructs, Gender Roles & Socialization, Feminist Anthropology, Gender-Based Violence, Women''''s Empowerment & Rights |
| ANT-406C | Dissertation | Project | 4 | Research Project Design, Data Analysis & Interpretation, Thesis Writing & Formatting, Academic Presentation Skills, Ethical Considerations in Research |
| ANT-407C | Viva Voce | Core | 4 | Oral Examination of Dissertation, Defense of Research Findings, Comprehensive Knowledge of Anthropology, Communication Skills, Critical Thinking & Problem Solving |
