Master of Anthropology and Planetary Futures (7139) in Canberra Australia | The Australian National University

This program examines interconnected challenges facing social, ecological, political, economic, and health systems through humanities and social science perspectives. As Australia's sole integrated biological and cultural program, it addresses global-scale issues while highlighting anthropology's distinctive ethnographic approach that prioritizes human-centered viewpoints and values.

Students gain analytical skills, theoretical frameworks, case studies, and practical tools for social involvement to comprehend planetary challenges, trace their cultural origins, and advocate for positive change. The Master of Anthropology and Planetary Futures employs critical social theory and research techniques to move beyond crisis narratives, examining how these threats both necessitate and facilitate political and social action, while supplying evidence for policy discussions and advocacy. The program enables students to analyze how global emergencies emerged from human social systems and dominant cultural paradigms, while acknowledging how communities creatively adapt to rapid changes.

The program prioritizes rigorous research methodologies, developing systems-thinking capabilities alongside advanced qualitative, field-based, and applied skills that establish strong empirical foundations for research careers. It merges biological anthropology techniques with cultural anthropology's study of human diversity through ethnographic research. These combined research frameworks and applied anthropology offer innovative and urgently required solutions.

DURATION 1 year full-time