We’re thrilled that we’ve been ranked 2nd in the UK for Anthropology in The Times University Rankings 2026 and the LSE is ranked first in the United Kingdom 2026.
This is testament to the dedication of our staff and students and the fantastic community here in the department. We’re passionate about teaching, and proud of the ground-breaking research conducted by staff and students.
LSE has been at the forefront of anthropology since the early 20th century. Bronisław Malinowski, one of the pioneering figures of Social Anthropology, helped establish the discipline here. Since then, many diverse and influential anthropologists have studied or taught at LSE, contributing to its global reputation. You can learn about some of our ancestors here.
Anthropology is a diverse field that deepens our understanding of how we live and the global challenges we face, from poverty to climate change. By examining patterns of behaviour and human relationships through theoretical and ethnographic approaches, social anthropology offers vital insights for addressing today’s most pressing issues.
Through our undergraduate and postgraduate programmes students examine human culture and society and the political, economic, digital, environment, family, and religious systems. At every stage, we encourage students to look at the world in new ways and challenge their own perceptions. We also provide the opportunity to train in ethnographic research methods, one of the hallmarks of social anthropology, equipping you with key transferrable skills.