If I had £1 for every time someone asked me to explain my degree, I would have enough to pay back my student loan! It’s a question that follows me around, largely because the course is so broad that it’s difficult to summarise quickly, especially as Anthropology isn’t taught in schools.
Is it STEM or not?
I studied Maths, Economics and English Literature at A-Level, mainly to keep my options open. In hindsight, that mix actually reflects what I love about my degree now. Anthropology isn’t typically taught in schools, but it draws on a wide range of disciplines from biology, sociology, psychology, economics and more, bringing together both STEM and the humanities in a really refreshing way.
I’ve always been interested in the intersection between biology and the social sciences, and I knew I wanted a course that balanced both qualitative and quantitative approaches. Health and Human Sciences does this so well. One week you might be working with statistical tests and coding in RStudio; the next, you’re conducting interviews, analysing transcripts, or exploring what “culture” really means in different societies. As the course progresses, you’re also able to lean into the areas you enjoy most and develop real depth in them.
Why Health and Human Sciences (and not just Anthropology)?
I chose this strand of Anthropology because I’m particularly interested in understanding humans through the lens of health. It feels incredibly relevant, whether looking at global health interventions like COVID-19 or examining community healthcare initiatives on a local level. The course encourages you to think about the biological and evolutionary body, inequalities in healthcare, and how data and lived experiences shape our understanding of health and disease. It adds a layer of social understanding to health that more traditional medical sciences don’t always explore.
What’s it like studying Anthropology at Durham?
Durham really stood out to me because of how broad and flexible the course is. Being part of Anthropology means you’re exposed to everything from medical and social anthropology to evolutionary perspectives. There are also great opportunities, such as the option to do a placement year or study abroad, as well as multiple field trips built into the degree. Even the assessments are varied! Ranging from essays and scientific reports to blogs, reflective journals and image portfolios, which keep things engaging and help me to develop a wide range of skills.
With a small Health and Human Sciences cohort (there are 12 in mine), you quickly get to know your course mates, while still having lectures with the wider Anthropology cohort, so you really get the best of both worlds. I’m also part of the Anthropology Student Voice Committee, and I value how committed the department is to listening to feedback and improving the course. This has been reflected in increased career support, including a recent talk by alumni working in organisations such as Stripes Partners and the Civil Service.
From zoos to boxing rings: Field trips
My favourite aspect so far has definitely been the field trips. This year alone, I’ve visited Yorkshire Wildlife Park to observe primate behaviour, Beamish Museum to explore how heritage spaces shape ideas of memory and nostalgia, and even a boxing match in Barnsley to study the social dynamics of sport. These experiences bring Anthropology to life beyond lectures and seminars, while also being a great way to bond with course mates and lecturers and explore places beyond Durham during term time. Knowing that these skills build towards a final-year field trip to Gibraltar makes it even more exciting.
Overall, I feel incredibly lucky to study a course that is so varied, hands-on and intellectually engaging. It constantly challenges the way you think, while opening up a wide range of future pathways.
Discover more
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