Master of Anthropology at ANU, Canberra | 1-Year Postgraduat

Master's Degree Anthropology Full Time

Master of Anthropology

at Australian National University · Canberra, Australian Capital Territory

CRICOS course code

108302M

CRICOS provider code

00120C

This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students. Verify it yourself at cricos.education.gov.au before paying any fee.

Duration

1 year

Tuition (whole course)

A$53,110 total

Per year

A$53,110/yr

Intake

Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul)

About this program

The Master of Anthropology at the Australian National University (ANU) in Canberra is an advanced, one-year coursework degree designed to deepen understanding of human societies and cultures, both in Australia and globally. Through a mix of core units and elective options, students develop strong analytical and research skills, learning to critically examine cultural diversity, social change, and contemporary social issues. Drawing on ANU’s leadership in anthropological research, the programme encourages students to engage with case studies and materials from the Asia-Pacific region, Indigenous Australia, and other international contexts.

The course is structured around units of study, with a set number of credit points required for completion as specified by the university. Students can expect to participate in seminars, independent research, and possibly a capstone project or thesis, allowing for deep exploration of specialised topics within anthropology. Coursework emphasises both theoretical frameworks and practical methodologies, preparing graduates for professional and academic pursuits.

This programme suits those seeking advanced training after an undergraduate degree, in anthropology or a related field, as well as early-career professionals aiming to enhance their expertise in social research, policy analysis, community engagement, or cultural resource management. It is particularly valuable for those aspiring to roles in government, NGOs, international development, or academia, where critical understanding of cultural context and field research skills are in high demand.

As an ANU student, you’ll benefit from the university’s strong industry and research links and its position within Canberra, a hub for both government policy and national institutions. International students are required to demonstrate English proficiency (typically IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5, or recognised equivalents). Students on a Student visa are generally permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during teaching periods and may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream upon completion. Please confirm credit requirements and unit offerings on the official programme page.

Entry requirements

English: International applicants must evidence English proficiency. IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall is the common undergraduate and coursework-postgraduate standard, rising to 7.0–7.5 for teaching, nursing, medicine, law and social work. TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and the university’s own English programmes are accepted as equivalents; the Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa itself.

International students: Registered on CRICOS for international students. A Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for this course supports a Student visa (subclass 500) application; Overseas Student Health Cover is required for the full duration.

Career outcomes

Cultural analyst or advisor
Social policy researcher or consultant
Community development officer
International aid and development worker
Museum or heritage professional
Academic researcher or doctoral candidate
Roles in public service, NGOs, and research organisations across Australia's government and social sectors

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Master of Anthropology at Australian National University?

It typically takes 1 year, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$53,110 total. Fees change yearly, confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Cultural analyst or advisorSocial policy researcher or consultantCommunity development officerInternational aid and development workerMuseum or heritage professionalAcademic researcher or doctoral candidateRoles in public service, NGOs, and research organisations across Australia...

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