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Student Life 

Our department is a diverse group of staff and students who come from countries all around the world to conduct research and study anthropology at Durham. We pride ourselves on being a friendly, welcoming and inclusive place to study and work. We aim to create a working environment that supports all our students and staff to thrive.

We are located in the Dawson Building, along with the Archaeology department, next to the main library, and close to lots of other departments and central services.

Student Support

We aim to create a supportive learning community in which students from diverse backgrounds can thrive and fulfil their potential. All students are assigned a year tutor for the entirety of their degree for personalised academic support and guidance, and all academic staff are available for one-to-one consultation during weekly 'drop-in' hours. Additionally, all students are assigned a peer mentor and we have dedicated departmental support groups for first-generation scholars and mature students. 

Read more about how we support our students

Diversity

We are committed to promoting equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) in all areas of our teaching and research.  We seek to promote equality of opportunity for all our students and staff, to promote diversity in our community, to provide an inclusive environment and to eliminate any form of harassment or discrimination.  

Read more about our diversity initiatives

Durham Anthropology Society

The Department has an active student-led group, Durham Anthropology Society, or “AnthSoc”. The society strives to provoke thought and interaction regarding all aspects of and perspectives on human science, society and culture, beyond the department and within the wider circle of our university. This is achieved through fun and challenging activities by the society, such as social events, discussion groups, film showings and trips.

Like the DU Anthropology Society on Facebook.

Student blogs

Find out what life is really like at Durham University in these blogs by Anthropology students. 

Anthropology Student Blogs

What's it like studying Anthropology?

Antonia Stulz and Annika Hanson describe their 3rd year field trip to Gibraltar
2 students observing macaques in Gibraltar

What's it like studying Anthropology?

Shivani Daxini describes her experience of studying Anthropology.
A person smiling for the camera whilst skiing

Day in the life of an Anthropology student

Freya Smellie describes a typical day in the life of a second year Anthropology student
A selection of books that have been scattered on the ground

So you're thinking of studying Anthropology?

Fliss Barrows talks about what its like to study Anthropology
3 students talking

Anthropology field trip to Gibraltar

Hannah Swinney describes her field trip to Gibraltar.
Mountain in Gibraltar

What’s it like studying Anthropology?

Maria Erazo tells us about her experiences studying Anthropology at Durham!
anth blog