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B-SC-HONS in Anthropology at University of Delhi

University of Delhi is a premier central university in Delhi, established in 1922. Renowned for its academic excellence across diverse programs, including Arts, Sciences, and Commerce, DU fosters a vibrant campus environment. Ranked 6th by NIRF 2024, it educates over 700,000 students.

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Delhi, Delhi

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About the Specialization

What is Anthropology at University of Delhi Delhi?

This Anthropology program at University of Delhi focuses on the holistic study of humanity across time and space, encompassing biological, social, cultural, and archaeological perspectives. It delves into human origins, diversity, societies, and cultural practices with a strong emphasis on empirical research and critical thinking. The program prepares students for diverse roles, especially in development, public health, and research, meeting a growing demand for culturally sensitive professionals in the Indian market.

Who Should Apply?

This program is ideal for fresh graduates from science backgrounds seeking entry into research, social sciences, or development sectors. It also suits individuals passionate about human behavior, societal structures, and cultural heritage, wishing to pursue careers in NGOs, government agencies, or academia. Specific prerequisite backgrounds typically include 10+2 with a strong science foundation.

Why Choose This Course?

Graduates of this program can expect diverse India-specific career paths in fields like social research, museum curation, public health, rural development, and human resources. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience. Growth trajectories include roles as research associates, project officers, or policy analysts in Indian and international organizations. Professional certifications in areas like data analysis or project management can further enhance career prospects.

Student Success Practices

Foundation Stage

Master Core Anthropological Concepts- (Semester 1-2)

Thoroughly grasp the foundational theories and concepts in social-cultural and biological anthropology. Engage actively in lectures, participate in discussions, and clarify doubts immediately. Utilize library resources for additional reading.

Tools & Resources

Departmental library, JSTOR, Academic journals

Career Connection

A strong theoretical base is crucial for all advanced studies and forms the bedrock for critical analysis in future research and applied roles.

Develop Effective Study Habits- (Semester 1-2)

Establish a consistent study schedule, focus on conceptual understanding rather than rote learning, and practice writing descriptive answers. Form study groups with peers to discuss complex topics and share insights.

Tools & Resources

Peer study groups, online academic forums, time management apps

Career Connection

Effective study habits lead to academic excellence, which is often a key criterion for postgraduate admissions and competitive job applications.

Engage in Early Field Exposure- (Semester 1-2)

Seek opportunities for introductory field visits or observation studies, even if informal, to connect classroom learning with real-world anthropological phenomena. This could involve visiting local museums, cultural sites, or community events.

Tools & Resources

University field trip notices, local cultural institutions, community events

Career Connection

Early exposure helps build practical understanding and informs career choices in fields requiring fieldwork, such as development or archaeological surveys.

Intermediate Stage

Gain Practical Research Skills- (Semester 3-5)

Focus on developing proficiency in both qualitative (ethnography, interviews) and quantitative (surveys, statistical analysis) research methods. Actively participate in practical sessions and methodology workshops.

Tools & Resources

SPSS, NVivo (if available), field journals, interview guides

Career Connection

Strong research skills are indispensable for roles in social research, policy analysis, and any academic pursuit, highly valued by Indian research organizations.

Explore Interdisciplinary Subjects- (Semester 3-5)

Strategically choose Generic Electives (GEs) that complement Anthropology, such as Sociology, Psychology, Economics, or Environmental Studies. This broadens your perspective and enhances problem-solving abilities.

Tools & Resources

Other department''''s course catalogs, academic advisors

Career Connection

An interdisciplinary approach makes graduates versatile, opening doors to roles in diverse sectors like public policy, urban planning, or health management.

Seek Internships and Volunteer Opportunities- (Semester 3-5)

Actively look for internships or volunteer roles with NGOs, cultural heritage organizations, or government departments (e.g., Anthropological Survey of India). This provides invaluable practical exposure and networking.

Tools & Resources

University career services, NGO websites, LinkedIn

Career Connection

Internships offer real-world experience, build professional networks, and significantly enhance employability for placements in development, social work, and research.

Advanced Stage

Undertake a Comprehensive Research Project- (Semester 6-8)

Dedicate significant effort to your research project/dissertation. Choose a topic of genuine interest, conduct rigorous fieldwork, and apply advanced analytical techniques. Seek regular feedback from your supervisor.

Tools & Resources

Academic databases, statistical software, university research ethics board guidelines

Career Connection

A well-executed research project demonstrates independent research capability, a critical asset for higher education and research-intensive careers in India.

Network with Professionals and Alumni- (Semester 6-8)

Attend seminars, workshops, and conferences to connect with faculty, researchers, and alumni in Anthropology and related fields. Actively participate in professional associations.

Tools & Resources

Professional associations (e.g., Indian Anthropological Society), university alumni network, academic conferences

Career Connection

Networking opens doors to mentorship, job opportunities, and collaborative projects, crucial for navigating the professional landscape in India.

Prepare for Higher Education or Placements- (Semester 6-8)

For higher studies, research relevant Master''''s/Ph.D. programs and prepare for entrance exams or statement of purpose. For placements, hone interview skills, build a strong CV, and explore specific job roles in applied anthropology sectors.

Tools & Resources

UPSC/NET preparation guides, career counseling services, mock interviews

Career Connection

Proactive preparation ensures a smooth transition to either advanced academic pursuits or direct entry into the workforce, maximizing post-graduation opportunities.

Program Structure and Curriculum

Eligibility:

  • 10+2 (Science stream) or equivalent with a minimum aggregate percentage as per University of Delhi admission guidelines.

Duration: 4 years / 8 semesters

Credits: 176 Credits

Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%

Semester-wise Curriculum Table

Semester 1

Subject CodeSubject NameSubject TypeCreditsKey Topics
DSC-01Introduction to Social-Cultural AnthropologyCore4Nature and Scope of Anthropology, Branches of Anthropology, Culture and Society, Family, Marriage and Kinship, Economic and Political Anthropology
DSC-02Introduction to Biological AnthropologyCore4Scope of Biological Anthropology, Human Evolution, Primatology, Human Genetics, Paleoanthropology
GE-01Generic Elective I (Student''''s Choice from a Basket)Elective (Generic)4Varies based on student''''s choice from a basket of courses offered by other departments.
AECC-01Environmental ScienceCompulsory2Introduction to Environmental Studies, Ecosystems, Natural Resources, Environmental Pollution, Global Environmental Issues
VAC-01Constitutional ValuesValue Addition2The Constitution of India, Preamble and Fundamental Rights, Directive Principles of State Policy, Fundamental Duties, Constitutional Amendments
SEC-01Digital LiteracySkill Enhancement2Basics of Computer Systems, Internet and Web Browsing, Office Productivity Tools, Cyber Security Basics, Digital Communication

Semester 2

Subject CodeSubject NameSubject TypeCreditsKey Topics
DSC-03Prehistory and ArchaeologyCore4Archaeological Concepts and Methods, Dating Methods, Paleolithic Cultures, Mesolithic and Neolithic Cultures, Chalcolithic Cultures
DSC-04Human Growth and DevelopmentCore4Principles of Growth and Development, Stages of Human Growth, Factors Affecting Growth, Growth Assessment, Ageing
GE-02Generic Elective II (Student''''s Choice from a Basket)Elective (Generic)4Varies based on student''''s choice from a basket of courses offered by other departments.
AECC-02MIL CommunicationCompulsory2Communication Process, Types of Communication, Barriers to Communication, Writing Skills, Presentation Skills
VAC-02Ethics & CultureValue Addition2Introduction to Ethics, Moral Philosophy, Cultural Relativism, Ethics in Indian Traditions, Contemporary Ethical Issues
SEC-02Prakriti (Basic Science Course)Skill Enhancement2Scientific Method, Biological Principles, Physical Principles, Chemical Principles, Interdisciplinary Science

Semester 3

Subject CodeSubject NameSubject TypeCreditsKey Topics
DSC-05Anthropological TheoriesCore4Evolutionism, Diffusionism, Functionalism, Structuralism, Postmodernism
DSC-06Human Ecology: Biological and Cultural DimensionsCore4Concepts of Human Ecology, Human Adaptation, Ecosystems and Culture, Environmental Impact, Cultural Ecology
DSC-07Research Methods in AnthropologyCore4Qualitative Research Methods, Quantitative Research Methods, Ethnography, Data Collection Techniques, Data Analysis
GE-03Generic Elective III (Student''''s Choice from a Basket)Elective (Generic)4Varies based on student''''s choice from a basket of courses offered by other departments.
VAC-03Art of Being HappyValue Addition2Foundations of Well-being, Mindfulness and Meditation, Emotional Intelligence, Building Positive Relationships, Purpose and Meaning in Life
SEC-03Yoga: Philosophy & PracticeSkill Enhancement2Introduction to Yoga, Asanas and Pranayama, Meditation Techniques, Yoga for Health, Ethical Principles of Yoga

Semester 4

Subject CodeSubject NameSubject TypeCreditsKey Topics
DSC-08Biological Diversity and Human VariationCore4Concept of Race and Racism, Human Polymorphisms, Genetic Markers, Adaptation to Environment, Human Population Genetics
DSC-09Anthropology of Religion and RitualCore4Theories of Religion, Myth, Ritual, and Symbolism, Magic and Witchcraft, Indigenous Religions, Religious Pluralism
DSC-10Indian AnthropologyCore4Historical Development of Indian Anthropology, Caste System, Tribal India, Rural and Urban Anthropology in India, Anthropology of Health in India
GE-04Generic Elective IV (Student''''s Choice from a Basket)Elective (Generic)4Varies based on student''''s choice from a basket of courses offered by other departments.
VAC-04Emotional IntelligenceValue Addition2Understanding Emotions, Self-Awareness, Self-Regulation, Motivation, Empathy and Social Skills
SEC-04Swachh BharatSkill Enhancement2Sanitation and Hygiene, Waste Management, Public Health, Community Participation, Sustainable Practices

Semester 5

Subject CodeSubject NameSubject TypeCreditsKey Topics
DSC-11Human GeneticsCore4Principles of Mendelian Genetics, Chromosomal Aberrations, Molecular Genetics, Population Genetics, Genetic Disorders
DSC-12Applied AnthropologyCore4Scope of Applied Anthropology, Development Anthropology, Medical Anthropology, Business Anthropology, Environmental Anthropology
DSE-01Discipline Specific Elective I (Student''''s Choice)Elective (Discipline Specific)4Options include: Forensic Anthropology, Tribal Anthropology, Anthropology of Gender, etc. (chosen by student).
DSE-02Discipline Specific Elective II (Student''''s Choice)Elective (Discipline Specific)4Options include: Medical Anthropology, Anthropology of Visual Culture, Nutritional Anthropology, etc. (chosen by student).

Semester 6

Subject CodeSubject NameSubject TypeCreditsKey Topics
DSC-13PalaeoanthropologyCore4Human Evolutionary History, Primate Evolution, Hominin Evolution, Fossil Evidence, Early Human Cultures
DSC-14Urban AnthropologyCore4Urbanization and Anthropology, Urban Social Structure, Informal Economy, Urban Planning, Global Cities
DSE-03Discipline Specific Elective III (Student''''s Choice)Elective (Discipline Specific)4Options include: Linguistic Anthropology, Development Anthropology, Anthropology of Tourism, etc. (chosen by student).
DSE-04Discipline Specific Elective IV (Student''''s Choice)Elective (Discipline Specific)4Options include: Population Anthropology, Human Rights and Anthropology, Disaster Anthropology, etc. (chosen by student).

Semester 7

Subject CodeSubject NameSubject TypeCreditsKey Topics
DSE-05Discipline Specific Elective V (Student''''s Choice)Elective (Discipline Specific)4Options include advanced topics in social, biological, or archaeological anthropology (chosen by student).
DSE-06Discipline Specific Elective VI (Student''''s Choice)Elective (Discipline Specific)4Options include advanced topics in applied or theoretical anthropology (chosen by student).
RP-01Research Project I / Dissertation IProject12Research Design and Methodology, Literature Review, Data Collection Planning, Ethical Considerations, Proposal Development

Semester 8

Subject CodeSubject NameSubject TypeCreditsKey Topics
DSE-07Discipline Specific Elective VII (Student''''s Choice)Elective (Discipline Specific)4Options include advanced topics in cultural, biological, or archaeological anthropology (chosen by student).
DSE-08Discipline Specific Elective VIII (Student''''s Choice)Elective (Discipline Specific)4Options include advanced topics in applied anthropology or interdisciplinary studies (chosen by student).
RP-02Research Project II / Dissertation IIProject12Data Analysis and Interpretation, Report Writing and Presentation, Thesis Development, Viva Voce Preparation, Contribution to Anthropological Knowledge
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