University of Kent, School of Anthropology & Conservation

About us

The School of Anthropology and Conservation is a multinational research community striving for real-world impact. Our creative lecturers, internationally recognised research, state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and welcoming student spaces create an inspiring learning environment.

• Gold in the Teaching Excellence Framework, the highest possible rating
• 15th for Anthropology in the Complete University Guide 2019
• 88% of Anthropology students who responded to the National Student Survey 2018 were satisfied with their course overall

Our vision

We recognise the importance of the fundamental link between human society, human evolution and the natural environment. This is key to our strength: by breaking down the barriers between the natural and social sciences, we can fully explore the relationships between humans and the world we live in and seek solutions to the challenges we face. We want to be world changes and we want you to join us on this adventure.

Inspirational teaching

Our highly motivated academic staff teach a broad range of modules informed by the latest research. Lecturers ensure that you develop practical, academic, professional and internationalisation skills alongside theory and foundational knowledge. We place a high value on learning through experience, and so most programmes offer field trips and, where relevant, teaching in our cutting-edge laboratory facilities and campus-based field sites.

We want to share our passion for our work with you. We highly value our inclusive and international school community which creates a learning environment rich in culture, diversity and intellectual challenge.

Supportive student environment

The School provides a welcoming environment. Our lecturers are keen to listen and offer advice, working with you to ensure you reach your full potential. Our students are a motivated and ambitious group who enjoy working together and supporting each other.

All students are allocated a personal academic adviser. You also have access to our Student Pastoral Support Co-ordinator, who offers support, guidance and signposting to additional services for both personal welfare and academic issues.

Research excellence

We believe in the intimate link between teaching and research, which ensures our modules are inspiring, relevant and thought-provoking. Our lecturers and research students are engaged in exciting projects in the UK and around the world. We promote innovative and interdisciplinary research, facilitated by our research centres.

Our research staff are active at academic and professional conferences, both nationally and internationally, and publish in leading journals. Their work often attracts global media attention, and a number of our staff and students have received prestigious awards for their research and its contribution to science and real-world issues. These include Whitley Awards, RSPB Conservation Science Awards, Future of Nature Awards, Distinguished Ethnobotanist of the Year, and the Richard Evans Schultes Research Award.

State-of-the-art facilities

The School provides students and research groups with excellent facilities which are equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and resources. We have dedicated laboratories for animal postcranial evolution, ecology, ethnobiology, human osteology, genetics, virtual palaeoanthropology and visual anthropology.

Our teaching spaces are fully equipped with audio-visual capabilities and our computer suite is furnished with 32 PCs with HD resolution and premium hardware.

Exciting prospects

Studying with the School of Anthropology and Conservation equips you for a successful career. As well as providing a first-rate academic experience, we also develop your transferable skills such as communication, team working, problem-solving and computer literacy.

You benefit from the extensive research and business networks cultivated by our staff. With weekly seminars, annual lectures and employability fairs attracting world-renowned and field-leading experts, you have many opportunities to be inspired and develop your own contacts.

Over the past 25 years, our students have gone on to hold key roles in some of the world’s most innovative and successful sustainability initiatives, and work in a wide range of organisations, including the Global Diversity Foundation, Harvard Economic Botany Museum and Porchlight Homelessness Charity.

Location

The School of Anthropology and Conservation is based on our Canterbury campus with its first-class academic and leisure facilities. We are equipped with the latest resources and our beautiful setting offers plenty of tranquil spaces to study and relax.

Everything you need on campus is within walking distance, including a general store, a bookshop, bank, cinema, theatre, a medical centre and a pharmacy. You can go off campus to explore the city's medieval buildings, historic pubs and an array of shops; London and France are just an hour away by train.