The programme is research-oriented. Students in their first year take a required theory and methods course, and may consider enrolling in a directed studies. After passing the Qualifying Examination and submitting a Research Proposal for a project requiring nine to twelve months of fieldwork, the student advances to PhD Candidature. On return from the fieldwork, the student will prepare a thesis based on the fieldwork research.
Fields of Specialization
The Division focuses geographically on Asia. Research topics include aging, archaeology, cultures of expertise, drug use and rehabilitation, ecology and environment, ethics, gender, heritage, medicine, migration, philanthropy, property, refugees, and sports.
Please visit the Division’s homepage for more information.
The tuition fee will be HK$47,000 for 2026/27 and HK$49,500 for 2027/28, regardless of the study mode.
In addition to the general requirements of the Graduate School, applicants should possess a master's degree in anthropology from CUHK or other recognized universities. Applicants with a background in fields other than anthropology may be considered for conditional admission.
Applicants are required to furnish proof of their research capability by submitting samples of writings or publications such as thesis or project reports, and a statement of purpose (2-3 pages) describing why the applicant wants to study anthropology at CUHK and what research project the applicant proposes to carry out. If relevant for research, some evidence of Chinese proficiency is also required for non-native speakers.
Main Round: 1 December 2025
Clearing Round: 31 March 2026
(Applications in Clearing Round will only be considered subject to availability of places.)
(for PhD programmes only)
Professor Teresa KUAN
Division of Anthropology,
Room 407, Humanities Building, New Asia College,
The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
