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MA in Anthropology at University of Lucknow
Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Anthropology at University of Lucknow Lucknow?
This MA Anthropology program at the University of Lucknow focuses on a holistic understanding of humanity, encompassing biological, social, cultural, and archaeological dimensions. It integrates classical anthropological theories with contemporary issues, preparing students for diverse challenges in a rapidly changing world. The program emphasizes field-based learning and interdisciplinary approaches, reflecting the growing demand for nuanced cultural understanding in Indian governance, NGOs, and research.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates from any discipline seeking entry into fields requiring cultural competence, research skills, or social analysis. It also suits working professionals in development, public health, or heritage management looking to upskill with an anthropological perspective. Individuals passionate about human diversity, cultural conservation, and social justice will find this specialization particularly rewarding, offering a strong foundation for both academic and applied careers.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse India-specific career paths in government sectors such as Tribal Welfare and the Archaeological Survey of India, NGOs, cultural heritage management, social impact assessment, and market research. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience. The holistic training equips them for roles in policy analysis, community development, and academic research, contributing to various national and international initiatives.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Theoretical Foundations- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time to thoroughly understand core anthropological theories across biological, social, cultural, and archaeological domains. Actively participate in lectures and discussions, and utilize the university''''s library resources and online academic databases for supplementary reading.
Tools & Resources
University Library, JSTOR, AnthroSource, Departmental Reading Lists, Study Groups
Career Connection
A solid theoretical base is crucial for developing critical thinking and analytical skills, which are essential for research, policy analysis, and any applied anthropology role in India.
Develop Research & Methodological Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Pay close attention to the Research Methodology course. Practice basic data collection techniques like observation and interviewing through small assignments. Learn to use basic statistical software like MS Excel for data organization and preliminary analysis, which are vital for empirical studies.
Tools & Resources
MS Excel, SPSS Tutorials, Departmental Workshops on Research Methods, Small Group Research Projects
Career Connection
Strong research skills are fundamental for academic pursuits, fieldwork, and roles in social impact assessment, market research, or program evaluation within Indian organizations.
Engage with Peer Learning & Discussions- (Semester 1-2)
Form study groups to discuss complex theories and concepts, and organize informal seminars to present key readings. This not only enhances understanding but also improves communication skills and exposes you to diverse perspectives, crucial for collaborative work.
Tools & Resources
Online Collaboration Tools (Google Docs), Departmental Common Rooms, Seminar Halls, Online Discussion Forums
Career Connection
Fosters teamwork and communication, critical for collaborative projects in any professional setting, especially in interdisciplinary anthropological work with government or NGO teams.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Specialization through Electives- (Semester 3)
Carefully choose electives in Semester 3 that align with your career interests. Deep dive into your selected area (e.g., Ethno Medicine, Anthropology of Development) by attending relevant workshops or seminars. Connect with faculty mentors for guidance on specialized topics.
Tools & Resources
Departmental Faculty Mentors, Industry Experts, Online Courses in Specific Specializations, Research Journals
Career Connection
Specialization helps in targeting specific job roles, making you a more attractive candidate for focused positions in NGOs, research institutions, or public sector departments in India.
Initiate Fieldwork and Dissertation Research- (Semester 3)
Begin planning and executing your fieldwork for the dissertation in Semester 3. Identify a clear research problem, conduct a thorough literature review, and actively engage in data collection under close faculty supervision. This provides invaluable hands-on experience.
Tools & Resources
Fieldwork Guides, Consent Forms Templates, Data Recording Tools, Research Ethics Guidelines
Career Connection
Practical fieldwork experience is invaluable for careers in development, social research, and academic research, demonstrating initiative and hands-on skills highly sought after in India.
Seek Internships and External Projects- (Semester 3)
Actively look for internship opportunities with NGOs, government departments (like Tribal Welfare or ASI), or research organizations during semester breaks. This allows you to apply classroom knowledge to real-world problems and gain professional exposure in the Indian context.
Tools & Resources
University Placement Cell, Internship Portals (Internshala, LinkedIn), Faculty Network, NGO/Government Websites
Career Connection
Internships provide practical experience, networking opportunities, and often lead to valuable career insights or even pre-placement offers with relevant organizations.
Advanced Stage
Master Dissertation Writing and Presentation- (Semester 4)
In Semester 4, focus intensely on completing your dissertation. Refine your data analysis, structure your arguments logically, and master academic writing conventions. Prepare diligently for the viva voce by practicing presentations and anticipating potential questions.
Tools & Resources
Academic Writing Workshops, Reference Management Software (Zotero, Mendeley), Presentation Tools (PowerPoint, Google Slides), Mock Viva Sessions
Career Connection
Demonstrates advanced research, analytical, and communication skills, which are critical for higher education, research roles, and professional report writing across sectors in India.
Network with Professionals and Alumni- (Semester 4)
Attend anthropology conferences, seminars, and workshops in your final semester. Actively connect with faculty, guest speakers, and alumni working in your target industries. Building a strong professional network can open doors to job opportunities and mentorship in India.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Professional Associations (e.g., Indian Anthropological Society), University Alumni Events, Departmental Seminars
Career Connection
Networking is key for job referrals, mentorship, and staying updated on industry trends, significantly aiding placement efforts and career advancement in the competitive Indian job market.
Prepare for Placements and Higher Studies- (Semester 4)
Update your CV and prepare a strong portfolio showcasing your research, fieldwork, and analytical skills. Practice interview techniques and participate in mock interviews. Explore options for M.Phil./Ph.D. programs or specific job roles post-MA, aligning with your career aspirations.
Tools & Resources
Career Counseling Services, Mock Interview Sessions, Job Portals (Naukri.com, Indeed), GRE/UGC NET Preparation Materials
Career Connection
Direct preparation for securing a relevant job or gaining admission to further academic programs ensures a smooth and strategic transition post-graduation, maximizing career prospects.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Graduation in any discipline from a recognized university.
Duration: 4 Semesters (2 years)
Credits: 80 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ANTC-101 | Human Evolution and Paleoanthropology | Core | 4 | Human Place in Animal Kingdom, Concepts of Organic Evolution, Primate Taxonomy and Behavior, Hominization Process, Early Hominids and Neanderthals, Modern Human Origin Theories |
| ANTC-102 | Social Anthropology and its Theories | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Social Anthropology, Historical Development of Discipline, Evolutionism and Diffusionism, Functionalism and Structural-Functionalism, Structuralism and Interpretive Anthropology, Relationship with other Social Sciences |
| ANTC-103 | Biological Diversity and Genetic Principles | Core | 4 | Mendelian Genetics and Deviations, Chromosomal Abnormalities, Human Blood Groups and Biochemical Polymorphism, Quantitative and Population Genetics, Genetic Drift, Gene Flow, Mutation, Natural Selection and Adaptation |
| ANTC-104 | Archaeological Anthropology | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Archaeology, Dating Methods (Relative and Absolute), Pleistocene Geology and Environments, Paleolithic Cultures of India, Mesolithic and Neolithic Cultures, Chalcolithic Cultures and Indus Valley Civilization |
| ANTC-105 | Research Methodology and Computer Applications | Core | 4 | Scientific Method and Research Design, Sampling Techniques, Data Collection (Observation, Interview, Questionnaire), Data Analysis and Report Writing, Basic Computer Applications (Word, Excel), Introduction to Statistical Software |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ANTC-201 | Human Growth and Development | Core | 4 | Concept and Factors of Growth, Methods of Studying Growth, Stages of Human Growth, Growth Charts and Indices, Malnutrition and Health Impacts, Child Development and Nutrition |
| ANTC-202 | Applied Anthropology | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Applied Anthropology, Role of Anthropologists in Development, Applications in Health and Education, Rural and Urban Development, Forensic Anthropology, Industrial Anthropology and Human Resource |
| ANTC-203 | Population Studies and Demographic Anthropology | Core | 4 | Basic Concepts of Demography, Population Structure and Dynamics, Fertility, Mortality, and Migration, Population Theories and Policies, Family Planning and Public Health, Anthropological Perspectives on Demography |
| ANTC-204 | Material Culture and Economic Anthropology | Core | 4 | Concepts of Culture and Material Culture, Technology and Subsistence Strategies, Production, Distribution, Consumption, Reciprocity, Redistribution, Market Exchange, Primitive Economic Systems, Hunting-Gathering, Pastoralism, Agriculture |
| ANTC-205 | Anthropology of Religion and Politics | Core | 4 | Definition and Theories of Religion, Myths, Rituals, Magic, Witchcraft, Totemism, Sacred and Profane, Political Organization (Bands, Tribes, States), Power, Authority, Law and Justice, Conflict Resolution and Social Control |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ANTC-301 | Human Ecology and Nutritional Anthropology | Core | 4 | Concept of Human Ecology, Ecological Adaptation and Ecosystems, Environmental Impact and Sustainability, Nutritional Requirements and Assessment, Food Habits and Cultural Aspects of Food, Malnutrition and Food Security |
| ANTC-302 | Tribal Culture of India | Core | 4 | Definition and Classification of Indian Tribes, Major Tribal Zones of India, Tribal Economy and Social Organization, Tribal Religion, Art and Culture, Problems of Indian Tribes, Tribal Development Programs and Policies |
| ANTC-303 | Kinship, Marriage and Family | Core | 4 | Basic Concepts of Kinship, Types of Kinship Systems, Forms and Rules of Marriage, Types and Functions of Family, Descent and Alliance Theories, Residence Rules and Kinship Terminology |
| ANTE-304 | Elective Paper 1 (Choice of one from four options) | Elective | 4 | Ethno Medicine: Traditional healing, health beliefs, Human Genetics: Genetic disorders, forensic genetics, Anthropology of Development: Development theories, social impact assessment, Urban Anthropology: Urbanization, social structure of cities |
| ANTP-305 | Field Work and Dissertation (Part I) | Project | 4 | Fieldwork Techniques and Research Design, Data Collection Methods in Anthropology, Ethical Considerations in Research, Literature Review and Problem Formulation, Preliminary Report Writing, Formulation of Research Objectives |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ANTC-401 | Anthropology of Gender and Development | Core | 4 | Concept of Gender vs. Sex, Gender Roles and Feminist Anthropologies, Gender and Development Theories, Women''''s Empowerment and Mainstreaming, Microfinance and Reproductive Health, Violence Against Women and Human Rights |
| ANTC-402 | Museum Anthropology and Heritage Management | Core | 4 | History and Types of Museums, Role of Anthropology in Museums, Collection Management and Conservation, Exhibition Design and Interpretation, Cultural Resource Management, Intangible Heritage and Tourism |
| ANTE-403 | Elective Paper 2 (Choice of one from four options) | Elective | 4 | Forensic Anthropology: Skeletal analysis, identification, Medical Anthropology: Health beliefs, healthcare systems, Visual Anthropology: Ethnographic film, photography, Political Anthropology: Power, governance, conflict |
| ANTE-404 | Elective Paper 3 (Choice of one from four options) | Elective | 4 | Linguistic Anthropology: Language and culture, sociolinguistics, Ecological Anthropology: Human-environment interaction, climate change, Psychological Anthropology: Culture and personality, mental health, Anthropology of Ageing: Cultural aspects of ageing, elder care |
| ANTP-405 | Field Work and Dissertation (Part II) | Project | 4 | Data Analysis and Interpretation, Thesis Writing and Structuring, Presentation Skills for Dissertation Defense, Ethical Aspects of Research Dissemination, Academic Publishing Considerations, Viva Voce Preparation |
