Disciplines and areas of study
Anthropology
Program Convenor: Dr Alberto Gomes
Postgraduate Coordinator: Dr Helen Lee
Enquiries: (03) 9479 1476
Anthropology is the study of humanity with a focus on cultural diversity. Using a range of theoretical perspectives and research methods from fieldwork and discursive analysis, anthropologists attempt to understand, appreciate, and explain cultural differences and similarities. The ultimate intellectual aim is to develop a more informed and critical outlook on one’s own culture and in the process achieve a better understanding of what it is that makes us human. While anthropologists are renowned for their studies of exotic practice, such as witchcraft and cannibalism, they are today more interested in familiar and everyday issues: social inequality, poverty, globalisation, climate change, information technology, development, identity politics, and childhood experiences. The units offered reflect this diversity of interests. The program is structured to provide students specialising in anthropology with an understanding of core concepts and basic research methods.
Principal areas of specialisation
Principal areas of specialisation are Australia, Asia, and the Pacific Rim, gender, family, religion, social anthropology, Aboriginal anthropology, ecology and society, community studies, comparative studies of other societies, developing societies, psychological anthropology, childhood, and many others.
Coursework programs
- Graduate Diploma in Humanities and Social Sciences
- Graduate Certificate in Humanities and Social Sciences
Research programs
- Master of Arts by Research
- Doctor of Philosophy