Major overview
Globalisation and cultural shifts mean expertise in understanding human behaviour is more important than ever.
With this major, you'll explore different cultures and discover what informs how we live, think and behave.
Anthropology examines what it means to be human through the lens of cultural diversity while sociology looks at how human actions are shaped by social groups and wider economic, political and social pressures.
You'll discover how people and societies have changed over time and understand more about the way we live today.
Why study at Curtin?
Top 1%
Curtin ranks in the top 1% of universities in the world.
Academic World Ranking of Universities, 2026
Broad career options
Combine your studies with areas such as journalism, international relations, public relations, history, Asian languages, marketing, public healthand health promotion.
Get the Curtin edge
Learn from researchers whose work is making positive contributions in areassuch asmigration, nationalism, and cultural and linguistic diversity.
How to study this major
You can study this major as part of any of the degrees below. A major is a set of eight or more units you complete as part of a degree, including at least two in your final year. The units may vary depending on the degree you choose.
Career outcomes
Globalisation and cultural shifts are encouraging organisations to seek the expertise of employees with deeper understanding of human behaviours. Knowledge in anthropology and sociology is particularly useful for areas such as journalism, international relations, public relations, history, Asian languages, marketing and public health.
Career examples
- Anthropologist
- Sociologist
- Heritage specialist
- Policy advisor
Industries
- Urban planning
- Heritage
- Health
- Journalism and media
- Advertising and marketing
- Public relations
- Urban planning
- Local, state and national government
Why study at Curtin?
Top 1%
Curtin ranks in the top 1% of universities in the world.
Academic World Ranking of Universities, 2026
Broad career options
Combine your studies with areas such as journalism, international relations, public relations, history, Asian languages, marketing, public healthand health promotion.
Get the Curtin edge
Learn from researchers whose work is making positive contributions in areassuch asmigration, nationalism, and cultural and linguistic diversity.
Hear from our students
"Anthropology and Sociology encourages you to question socially normalised practices, to better understand the systems and structures that govern our lives. Being able to critique these accepted ways of being is crucial to breaking structures of inequality and marginalisation."
Claire Dodos
Bachelor of Arts (Anthropology and Sociology)
Major structure
What you’ll learn
You will explore how local and global cultural practices, institutions, social groups and everyday lives are being transformed within the context of globalised communication and economic, political and environmental change.
You’ll study contemporary issues related to identity, family life, gender relations, language use, sustainability and development, social justice and human rights.
Throughout your studies you’ll develop the conceptual skills to respond to these changes, and learn how to do research in the social sciences.
Detailed course structure and unit information
For detailed information and course structure, visit our Handbook.
Study combinations
This major is offered as part of the Bachelor of Arts. You can enhance your studies with a second major or choose from a range of elective units that support your career goals.
You can increase your career opportunities by studying Anthropology and Sociology as part of a Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Innovation or Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Commerce double degree.
How to apply
This major is part of a degree. To apply, choose the degree you want to study and review its entry requirements. Then, prepare any required documents and submit your application before the deadline for your chosen intake.
After you receive and accept your offer, you can enrol in this major either at the start of your degree or later in your studies, depending on your course structure.
Choose your degree
To study this major, you'll need to apply one of the degrees listed below.
For full entry requirements, fees and information for international students, visit the course page.
Explore more
Find more resources to help you take the next step in your Curtin journey.