Sociology and Social Anthropology

The Department of Sociology and Social Anthropology is a double-discipline department that provides a unique academic environment, driven by a commitment to critical inquiry into contemporary social and cultural challenges. Our interdisciplinary approach explores key issues such as social justice, power, identity and inequality, equipping students with the analytical tools necessary to address real-world problems.

Our undergraduate and postgraduate programs are designed to nurture critical thinkers and practitioners who will contribute meaningfully to society. Additionally, we offer short courses for professionals, equipping them with specialised knowledge and practical skills to tackle complex social issues. Whether you’re passionate about understanding societal dynamics or seeking solutions for a more equitable future, our department is where intellectual growth leads to positive change.

Contact details

+27 (0)21 808 2417 - [email protected]
+27 (0)21 808 2479 - [email protected]

Physical address

Department of Sociology and Social Anthropology
Room 424/ 429, 4th Floor
Arts & Social Sciences Building
Corner of Merriman Avenue and Ryneveld St
Stellenbosch

“Engaging deeply with contemporary social challenges empowers our students to contribute meaningfully to society.”

Our team welcomes you to our department

Our Programmes

Undergraduate Programmes

We are a double-discipline department, offering undergraduate modules in sociology and social anthropology. Our first year combines the two disciplines. In the second year, students select modules in sociology, social anthropology, or both. Modules are taken as part of a degree programme, which typically prescribes the specific combination of modules that students must take.

BA in Sociology

Introduces students to key sociological concepts and methods, exploring inequality, social change and cultural diversity.

BA in Social Anthropology

Examines the complexities of human cultures and practices, focusing on how individuals and communities navigate their social worlds.

More undergraduate information

Postgraduate Programmes

The Department offers postgraduate programmes at honours, master’s and PhD level, in sociology and social anthropology. While the degrees remain distinct, the foundational honours programme integrates insights from sociology and social anthropology. Our postgraduate programmes embed students in a community of scholars who are critical, enthusiastic and supportive of each other. Students experience their studies as both demanding and hugely rewarding. Our students have a reputation for imaginative and creative research in a range of fields, with our graduates successful in the academic and non-academic world.

Honours in Sociology or Anthropology

Honours in Sociology offers advanced training in sociological theory and research methods, preparing students for specialised academic or professional careers. Honours in Social Anthropology focuses on advanced anthropological theory and ethnographic research, equipping students to critically...

MA in Sociology or Social Anthropology

A research-intensive programme that enables students to explore contemporary sociological issues in depth, culminating in a thesis. Encourages independent research on cultural practices and social dynamics, fostering expertise in qualitative analysis.