A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Anthropology is a research-based degree program that focuses on the study of human beings, their behavior, cultures, and societies. Anthropology is a broad field that encompasses four subfields: cultural anthropology, biological (or physical) anthropology, archaeology, and linguistic anthropology.
PhD programs in anthropology typically take 4-7 years to complete, and include coursework in anthropological theory, research methods, and specialized topics within the student's area of interest. Students are also required to conduct original research and write a dissertation, which is a comprehensive piece of scholarly work that contributes new knowledge to the field of anthropology.
PhD graduates in anthropology can pursue academic careers as professors, researchers, or museum curators, or can work in a variety of other fields such as public health, international development, cultural resource management, or government agencies. The skills developed in a PhD program in anthropology, such as critical thinking, research design, and cultural competency, are highly valued in many professional fields.
Course Level | Doctorate |
Full-form | Doctorate of Philosophy in Anthropology |
Duration | 2-6 years |
Admission Process | Direct Admission or based on Entrance test. |
Course Fee | Notified Soon |
Average Salary | INR 7-8 LPA |
Job Positions | Research scientist, clinical psychologist, technical director, assistant professor, general manager. |
Top Recruiting Areas | Museums, educational institutes, administrative departments, conservative centers, etc. |
The PhD in Anthropology candidates must fulfill certain eligibility criteria. Only then will they be able to seek admission to a particular college The eligibility criteria have been discussed below:
The duration of a PhD program in Anthropology typically takes 4-7 years to complete, depending on the institution and the student's research topic and progress. |
PhD in Anthropology: Direct Admission
Numerous colleges grant direct admission to the aspirants based on their Master’s merit. Here is what you need to do to grab a direct admission in a college that is providing PhD in Anthropology.
Step 1: Fill The Application Form
The students must fill up their application form in physical or in online mode. All the details must be filled in extremely carefully.
Step 2: Appear for The Interview
An interview may be conducted in some colleges. Your performance in the interview will determine whether you will be shortlisted for admission.
Step 3: Admission to The College
Once you get shortlisted by the college, you will be allowed to take admission. For that, you need to submit the admission fee and other required documents.
Ph.D. in Anthropology Admission Process: Entrance Test
Step 1: Fill The Application Form
You will get the admission form from the college campus itself. You will also be able to submit the application form in online mode.
Step 2: Appear for The Entrance Test
After you submit your application form, you will have to sit for the entrance test. The pattern of the entrance test may vary from college to college.
Step 3: Admission to the college
If you clear the cut-off of the entrance test, you will be able to take admitted to the college of your choice. For that, you will have to submit all the documents required for admission and also pay the admission fee.
Selection criteria for PhD programs in Anthropology may include academic achievement, research experience, letters of recommendation, personal statement, writing sample, and research proposal. |
Prospective PhD students in Anthropology should visit the website of the institution they wish to attend and follow the application instructions.
This may include submitting an application form, transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, a writing sample, and other requirements.
It is important to adhere to the institution's deadlines and requirements to ensure full consideration for admission.
Additionally, it is often recommended to contact potential advisors or faculty members in the Anthropology department to discuss research interests and potential fit prior to applying.
The application form for a PhD program in Anthropology is typically available on the institution's website. |
Prospective students should follow the instructions provided by the institution and provide all required information and documentation. |
The application process for a PhD program in Anthropology may include submitting an application form, transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, a writing sample, and other requirements.
Some institutions may also require an interview or research proposal.
It is important to adhere to the institution's deadlines and requirements to ensure full consideration for admission.
The application fee for a PhD program in Anthropology varies depending on the institution. Typically, the fee ranges from Notified Soon. |
Academia: Many PhD anthropologists pursue careers in academia, working as professors, researchers, or administrators in colleges, universities, and research institutions. They may conduct research, publish papers, teach courses, and mentor students in areas such as cultural anthropology, biological anthropology, archaeology, linguistic anthropology, or applied anthropology.
Research: PhD anthropologists often engage in research, either independently or as part of research teams, exploring various aspects of human societies and cultures. They may work for government agencies, non-profit organizations, or private research firms, conducting studies on topics such as cultural diversity, social dynamics, environmental sustainability, or public health.
Consulting: Anthropologists with a PhD may work as consultants, providing expertise to businesses, government agencies, NGOs, and international organizations. They may advise on matters related to cross-cultural communication, community development, organizational culture, human resources, market research, or policy analysis.
Government: PhD anthropologists can find employment opportunities within government agencies at the local, national, or international levels. They may work in areas such as cultural heritage preservation, urban planning, public health, international development, human rights, or immigration and refugee affairs.
Non-Profit Organizations: Many non-profit organizations hire PhD anthropologists to lead research projects, develop programs, or provide cultural sensitivity training. They may work for organizations focused on social justice, environmental conservation, community development, humanitarian aid, or indigenous rights advocacy.
Museums and Cultural Institutions: PhD anthropologists may work in museums, cultural centers, or heritage sites, curating exhibits, conducting ethnographic research, or managing cultural preservation projects. They may also collaborate with indigenous communities to repatriate cultural artifacts or revitalize traditional knowledge.
Media and Communication: Anthropologists with a PhD often contribute their expertise to media outlets, producing documentaries, writing articles, or serving as consultants for film and television productions. They may help to accurately portray diverse cultures and societies or provide cultural analysis and commentary on current events.
International Development: PhD anthropologists play a crucial role in international development projects, working for organizations such as the United Nations, World Bank, or international NGOs. They may focus on issues such as poverty alleviation, sustainable development, gender equality, or cultural heritage preservation in diverse cultural contexts around the world.
Harvard University
University of California-Berkeley
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor
Stanford University
University of Chicago
University of Arizona
Q.1 - What is the procedure for Ph.D. Admission to the University?
ANSWER: - The Ph.D. and M.Phil. programs of prestigious Universities are conducted and guided strictly as per the provisions and regulations dictated by the UGC (Minimum Standards and Procedure for Award of Ph.D./M.Phil. Degrees) (1st Amendment) Regulations, 2018 and subsequent amendments. The entire procedure for admission to the research programs encompasses a Research Entrance Exam (RET) and then an Interview/Viva Voce. The performance of a candidate in the RET is given 70% weightage, and the remaining 30% weightage is given to his/her performance at the Interview.
Q.2 - What are the modes of pursuing M.Phil. & Ph.D. programs at the University?
ANSWER: -Both the full-time and part-time modes are available at University for pursuing its Ph.D. programs and only the full-time mode is available for M.Phil. program in the desired subjects/fields. These highly-qualitative and prolific research programs are available in a rather broad range of fields/subjects. At University, the minimum time duration of the M.Phil. and Ph.D. programs is 1.5 Years and 3 Years, respectively, in general.
Q.3 - Are the Ph.D. and M.Phil. Degrees granted by any University valid abroad?
ANSWER: -Yes, of course. If the University is properly recognized under section 2(f) of the UGC Act of 1956 and is a prestigious member of the AIU (the Association of Indian Universities). It is an M.Phil. and Ph.D. degrees granted in various fields/subjects are duly valid across India and the world.
Q.4 - What are the main eligibility criteria for participating in the University Research Entrance Exam (RET)?
ANSWER: -The following are the main eligibility conditions for participating in the RET: - A rigorous Master’s Degree in the proposed subject/field obtained from any recognized university/institution located in India or abroad, with a minimum 55% marks in aggregate or an equivalent grade. Candidates belonging to SC/ST/OBC/Differently-abled categories are given a 5% relaxation in respect of this eligibility criterion. Candidates with an M.Phil. degree in the proposed field/subject, or have qualified for the UGC (JRF) Examinations/ NET/ SET/ SELT, etc., will be allowed to appear directly for the interview, without appearing in the RET. Impressive academic records, and any prior experience in research work, will be given additional advantages.
Q.5 - What relaxations are granted to the reserved categories for Ph.D. Admission to the University?
ANSWER: - Candidates belonging to the categories of SC/ST/OBC (Non-Creamy layer)/Differently-Abled, and so on, are given all relaxations prescribed by the Govt. of India and the UGC. These relaxations are provided in form of 5% reduced marks for them at post-graduation, and also in the minimum qualifying marks at RET. Thus, candidates belonging to these categories only need to score a minimum of 45% marks at RET, to qualify for the final interview.
Q.6 - How will be the pattern of RET?
ANSWER: - The syllabus or pattern of RET consists of subject-specific matters, research methodology, and aptitude (covering logical reasoning, numerical ability, analytical reasoning, statistics, etc.).Thus, RET will contain a total of 70 multiple-choice questions (MCQs).
Q.7 - Are M.Phil. Holders/UGC- NET (including JRF)/ UGC-CSIR NET (including JRF)/ SLET/ GATE exempted from appearing at RET?
ANSWER: - Yes. The holders of M.Phil. degrees in their respective fields/subjects are made exempt from appearing in RET. The same is the situation in cases of aspiring candidates who have qualified exams like UGC-NET (including JRF)/ UGC-CSIR NET (including JRF)/ SLET/ GATE, etc.
Q.8 - How is the application fee paid?
ANSWER: - The Application Fee (i.e. the fee for getting participated in RET) can be paid online or offline, like the Application Form. Payment Modes: DD (in Favor of the University) / NEFT/ Cash Deposit.
Q.9 - Do working candidates require to obtain NOC from employers for pursuing research at any University?
ANSWER: - Yes, necessarily. Working Professionals who are interested in research at any University are required to obtain the NOC (No Objection Certificate) from their respective employers, in order to avert any intrusion ever during the entire doctoral course.
Q.10 - Does an M.Phil. holder require to undergo Ph.D. coursework?
ANSWER: - Yes. M.Phil. holders are again required to undergo the coursework in Ph.D. at some Universities. However, their prior knowledge in the field/subject will be very supportive to them for learning and performing efficiently during the Ph.D. program.
Q.11 - Can I pay the yearly program/course fee in installments?
ANSWER: - Yes, you can pay the yearly course fee as many as in two installments, but well within the yearly session.
Q.12 - Does Any University provide any scholarship or stipend to pursuing scholars?
ANSWER: - Yes, of course. Many Universities offer scholarships as well as stipends to meritorious and talented candidates who undertake research studies at the University. Scholarships are granted to those candidates who come under the top 21 by scoring higher marks in RET and interviews. And, stipends are provided to those scholars who also give lectures to UG or PG students at the University, in addition to doing their Ph.D. coursework. The amount of the monthly stipend will be commensurate with the candidate’s qualifications and capabilities and may go up to Rs. 20,000.
Q.13 - What other many facilities are provided to research scholars at the University Campus?
ANSWER: - All necessary and constructive resources, amenities, and facilities are offered by well-established and prestigious universities to research scholars in various streams/subjects. These facilities include the following - spacious and peaceful study rooms, erudite and well-experienced academicians and research experts, Wi-Fi and diverse IT devices, state-of-the-art laboratories, well-stocked libraries, lavish R&D amenities, separate amenities for lodging and foods for male and female candidates, peaceful and constructive environment within the university campus, and many other comforting and convenient facilities and services.