Cultural Anthropology and Development Sociology: Policy in Practice
Conduct policy-oriented ethnographic research and complete an international internship focusing on global diversity and sustainability.
Best for:Best for students with a background in social sciences eager to combine ethnographic fieldwork with practical organizational policy research.
Overview
Leiden University offers a Master of Science specialisation in Cultural Anthropology and Development Sociology: Policy in Practice, designed for students interested in addressing contemporary organizational challenges. The curriculum combines rigorous ethnographic methodologies with a mandatory three-month research internship in settings such as the Netherlands, Ghana, or the Philippines. Participants examine critical global issues including diversity, sustainability, and digitalisation as they impact NGOs, government agencies, and commercial enterprises. Students are expected to demonstrate strong analytical capabilities, flexibility, and dedication to applied social science research.
What you'll do
- Conduct policy-oriented ethnographic research addressing challenges faced by NGOs, governments, and commercial entities
- Examine complex global processes related to culture, diversity, sustainability, and digitalisation
- Complete a three-month practical research internship in the Netherlands or internationally
- Synthesize ethnographic data into actionable insights for organizational stakeholders
Requirements
Degree required: Bachelor's degree or equivalent in Cultural Anthropology, Development Sociology, or a related social science field
Degree offered: Master of Science
Language: English; proficiency required for coursework and communication
Instruction: English
- Strong analytical and critical thinking skills
- Demonstrated capability in qualitative or ethnographic research methods
- Effective organisational and communication skills
- Flexibility and resilience for international fieldwork
- Meeting Leiden University general admission criteria for Master of Science programmes
Funding & terms
Programme and admissions
Admissions not verified
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- Intake
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- Taught / research mode
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- Prerequisites
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How to apply
Deadline: 2027-04-01
Prospective students must submit their application through the official university portal before the specified deadline. Ensure all required academic transcripts, personal statements, and proof of language proficiency are prepared and uploaded according to university guidelines.
- CV
- Cover letter
- Bachelor's transcripts
- Proof of English proficiency
Contact
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