Social Anthropology

Abstract

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  Profile of the study programme

  What is social anthropology?
  Social anthropology explores human action as a whole, including its political, legal, moral, religious, economic, social and material dimensions. In doing so, it offers tools for understanding changes in contemporary society. The topics studied include new forms of organisation, cooperation and conflict, ethnicity and nationalism, different legal systems, migration phenomena, human interaction with the environment, urban life, different forms of social and political mobilisation, new religious movements, tourism, rituals and the use of new technologies.

  One of its main features is its specific qualitative methods, involving fieldwork and in particular participant observation and in-depth interviews. The information thus obtained sheds light on the living conditions and perspectives of the social group studied. More generally it also provides food for thought concerning the particularities and diversity of different cultures while at the same time emphasising human commonalities.

  Fribourg profile
  By analysing local communities and studying social relationships, the bachelor programme in Social Anthropology at the University of Fribourg allows students to understand changes in society, whether western or non western, near or far. At the University of Fribourg, the courses cover the history, theories and major concepts of anthropology. Current issues of anthropological debates are addressed in a variety of geographical and cultural contexts. Activities such as conferences, excursions, visits to museums and summer schools are organised regularly.

  Moreover, students have the advantage, rarely offered elsewhere, of multiple perspectives that combine research traditions from the German, French, Italian and English-speaking worlds. The curriculum can be followed in German, French, or bilingually. Staff members teach political, legal, economic and environmental anthropology, based on their research in Europe, Africa and Asia.

  The bachelor programme in Social Anthropology at the University of Fribourg offers students a basis in the discipline as well as deeper insights into specific areas which will help them understand contemporary social and cultural issues. It also provides multidisciplinary training in the social sciences, which enables students to pursue a master's degree or seek a professional career.

  Learning outcomes and career openings
  Training in Social Anthropology may be put forth in a wide variety of professional activities. It offers tools that can be applied in various work contexts: to co-ordinate a social or educational project; to contribute to assessing a political or organisational action; to steer or co-ordinate a group, an association, etc. Consequently, the professional sectors are multiple and varied: associations, social intervention, companies, human resources, consultancy, inter-cultural mediation, NGOs, cantonal and federal associations in Switzerland, Confederation services, diplomatic services, journalism and education. The skills acquired during these studies are also relevant to research activities, scientific expertise or an academic career.

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