Central Department of Anthropology Tribhuvan University

The Central Department of Anthropology (CDA) at Tribhuvan University (TU) is a premier institution offering high-quality education in anthropology in Nepal. Established as an independent department in 2015 after three decades of joint teaching and research with the Department of Sociology and Anthropology, the CDA is committed to the vision of transforming central departments into centers of academic excellence.

Quality Higher Education:

The CDA provides exceptional higher education opportunities, offering Master's (MA), MPhil, and PhD programs in anthropology. With a focus on critical theoretical understanding and a blend of global-local perspectives, the department aims to equip students with analytical, research, and writing skills. Students receive rigorous training that enhances their capabilities and prepares them for academic and professional pursuits.

Comprehensive Curriculum:

The Central Department of Anthropology offers the most up-to-date courses of study, integrating the classical four-field approaches in anthropology with specialized subfields. These subfields are highly relevant for comprehending both the historical and contemporary issues in Nepal and the wider world. Currently, the department offers MA (4 semesters), MPhil (3 semesters), and PhD programs in collaboration with the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, TU.

Distinguished Faculty:

The department takes pride in its esteemed faculty members, who bring a wealth of experience and expertise from renowned universities in the US, UK, Europe, Japan, India, and Nepal. These faculty members have diverse academic interests and research fields that cover a wide range of topics such as religion, kinship, gender, ethnicity, indigeneity, historical anthropology, medical anthropology, inclusion and exclusion, federalism, peasantry and land, development, infrastructure, natural resource management, and climate change.

Research and Academic Contributions:

Apart from their teaching responsibilities, the faculty members at the Central Department of Anthropology engage in academic and applied research projects. They contribute to the field through the publication of scholarly journals, hosting annual anthropology conferences, organizing periodic seminars, and conducting bimonthly colloquium series. This commitment to research and knowledge dissemination enhances the department's standing and fosters a vibrant intellectual community.

Additional Offerings:

The CDA also extends its services beyond regular academic programs. It provides various short-term training programs to cater to the needs of professionals seeking to enhance their understanding of anthropology. These training programs offer valuable insights and practical skills applicable to diverse professional fields.

The Central Department of Anthropology at Tribhuvan University stands as a testament to Nepal's commitment to academic excellence in the field of anthropology. With its comprehensive curriculum, distinguished faculty, research contributions, and additional offerings, the department offers a rich and nurturing environment for students and professionals seeking to broaden their understanding of human societies and cultures.

Salient Features

1. Enhanced Learning Experience: The Central Department of Anthropology places great emphasis on enriching the learning experience of students. By providing multiple avenues for the development of critical and analytical skills, students are equipped with the tools necessary for academic and professional success.

2. Short-term Training Programs: The department offers organized short-term training programs that enable students to further enhance their understanding of anthropology. These programs provide valuable insights and practical skills applicable to various professional fields.

3. Annual Anthropology Conferences: The CDA organizes annual anthropology conferences, creating a platform for students, faculty, and researchers to exchange ideas, present research findings, and engage in intellectual discussions. These conferences contribute to the academic growth of the discipline and foster a sense of community within the department.

4. Periodic Seminars: In addition to conferences, the department hosts periodic seminars where experts and scholars from various disciplines share their knowledge and insights. These seminars provide students with opportunities to expand their understanding of anthropology and its interdisciplinary connections.

5. Bimonthly Colloquium Series: The department conducts a bimonthly colloquium series, bringing together students and faculty members to discuss ongoing research, share scholarly work, and receive constructive feedback. This platform encourages intellectual engagement and helps students refine their research and analytical skills.

6. Academic and Applied Research Projects: The Central Department of Anthropology actively undertakes academic and applied research projects. These projects provide students with opportunities to engage in research, develop critical thinking abilities, and contribute to the field. The department also publishes its own academic journals, providing a platform for students and faculty to showcase their research findings.

7. E-Library: The department is dedicated to providing students with access to quality resources. To facilitate study, assignments, and research projects, the Central Department of Anthropology has developed an E-Library. This digital resource center allows students to access a wide range of academic materials, enhancing their learning and research capabilities.

The Central Department of Anthropology's commitment to comprehensive learning experiences, research opportunities, and access to resources demonstrates its dedication to fostering academic excellence in anthropology. Through its salient features, the department empowers students to become critical thinkers, skilled researchers, and contributors to the field of anthropology.

Scholarship Information

The Central Department of Anthropology recognizes the importance of financial support for students pursuing higher education in anthropology. In collaboration with the University Grants Commission (UGC), the department offers various scholarships, fellowships, and dissertation grants to eligible students. These opportunities aim to alleviate the financial burden and enable students to focus on their academic and research endeavors.

1. Fellowships: The department provides fellowship programs to outstanding students pursuing MA, MPhil, and PhD degrees in anthropology. These fellowships are merit-based and offer financial assistance to deserving students, allowing them to concentrate on their studies and research without financial constraints. The fellowships are awarded based on academic excellence, research potential, and overall performance.

2. Dissertation Grants: The Central Department of Anthropology, in collaboration with the UGC, offers dissertation grants to students undertaking research for their MPhil and PhD dissertations. These grants provide financial support for fieldwork, data collection, travel expenses, and other research-related costs. The grants aim to facilitate students' in-depth research and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the field of anthropology.

3. University Grants Commission (UGC) Scholarships: The department also assists students in applying for various scholarships offered by the University Grants Commission. These scholarships include need-based scholarships, merit scholarships, and scholarships specifically designed for students from marginalized backgrounds. The department guides and supports students throughout the application process to increase their chances of receiving these valuable scholarships.

4. External Funding Opportunities: The Central Department of Anthropology keeps students informed about external funding opportunities, such as national and international scholarships, grants, and research fellowships relevant to the field of anthropology. Students are encouraged to explore and apply for these external funding sources to supplement their financial support and expand their research opportunities.

The Central Department of Anthropology is dedicated to promoting equal access to quality education and research opportunities. By offering fellowships, dissertation grants, and facilitating applications for UGC scholarships, the department strives to support students in their academic pursuits, encourage research excellence, and contribute to the growth of anthropology as a discipline.

Offered Programs

The Central Department of Anthropology at Tribhuvan University offers a range of programs to cater to the diverse academic and research interests of students. These programs provide comprehensive education and training in the field of anthropology, enabling students to acquire in-depth knowledge, critical thinking skills, and research expertise.

1. BA in Anthropology: The department offers a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in Anthropology. This undergraduate program provides students with a foundational understanding of anthropological theories, methods, and concepts. Through a combination of theoretical coursework and practical fieldwork, students gain insights into the cultural, social, and biological aspects of human societies. The BA program in Anthropology serves as a stepping stone for students who wish to pursue further studies or embark on careers related to anthropology.

2. MA in Anthropology (MA Anthropology): The Central Department of Anthropology offers a Master of Arts (MA) degree in Anthropology. This postgraduate program is designed to deepen students' understanding of anthropology and enhance their research and analytical skills. The curriculum covers various subfields of anthropology, including sociocultural anthropology, biological anthropology, archaeological anthropology, and linguistic anthropology. Students engage in advanced coursework, research projects, and seminars to develop expertise in their areas of interest.

3. MPhil in Anthropology: The department provides a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) program in Anthropology. This program is designed for students seeking rigorous academic training and research experience in anthropology. Students pursuing an MPhil degree engage in advanced coursework, independent research, and the writing of a thesis under the guidance of faculty members. The MPhil program equips students with the necessary skills and knowledge to undertake original research and contribute to the field of anthropology.

4. PhD in Anthropology: The Central Department of Anthropology offers a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program in Anthropology. The PhD program is aimed at students who wish to pursue in-depth research and make significant contributions to the field of anthropology. Students in the PhD program work closely with faculty advisors to develop their research projects, conduct fieldwork, and write a doctoral dissertation. The program emphasizes independent research, critical analysis, and the advancement of anthropological knowledge.

These offered programs at the Central Department of Anthropology provide students with a comprehensive and multidisciplinary education in anthropology. Through theoretical coursework, practical fieldwork, and research opportunities, students develop a deep understanding of human societies, cultures, and their complexities. The programs prepare students for diverse career paths in academia, research institutions, government agencies, NGOs, and other fields where anthropological perspectives are valued.