PhD in Anthropology

Tuition fees are 29,300 ZAR per year. The application deadline for the Oct 2027 intake is Feb 28, 2027.

The PhD in Anthropology is for students interested in human cultures and behaviors. It's a 2-year PhD degree at the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, taught in English.

The curriculum explores subjects like social anthropology, cultural studies, and ethnography. Students develop skills in qualitative research, critical thinking, and cultural analysis, with hands-on components like ethnographic fieldwork and participant observation.

Graduates can pursue careers as Cultural Resource Managers, Anthropology Professors, Museum Curators, Ethnographic Researchers, or International Development Specialists, working in industries like academia, museums, or international organizations.

The University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, known as Wits, is a prominent research-intensive university founded in 1922 and located in one of Africa’s most vibrant cities. With a student body exceeding 42,000 and a diverse international community, Wits offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across humanities, sciences, engineering, health sciences, and business. Its urban campus provides access to cultural institutions, industry partners, and public sector organizations for experiential learning.

Wits is recognized for rigorous research and strong professional programs, offering 322 distinct programs that combine theoretical depth with practical training. The university’s academic environment supports innovation through research centers, clinical training partnerships, and industry collaborations that help students build professional networks. International students benefit from dedicated support services, orientation programs, and resources to assist with visas, accommodations, and academic advising, helping them integrate into campus life and pursue career ambitions.

Campus life at Wits is dynamic, with active student societies, sporting opportunities, and cultural events that reflect Johannesburg’s diversity. Graduates join a broad alumni network and often find career pathways in South Africa and abroad. Prospective students should explore program-specific entry requirements, funding and scholarship options, and early engagement with faculty to tailor their study plans to research interests or professional objectives.