Direct answer
Goldsmiths, University of London states that entry to the MA Visual Anthropology requires an undergraduate degree of at least second class standard in a relevant or related subject. Applicants without a degree or with an unrelated degree may be considered if they have relevant experience and can demonstrate ability to work at postgraduate level. For English language, the programme requires an IELTS score of 6.5 with a 6.5 in writing and no element lower than 6.0, or an equivalent qualification. The official programme page does not publish a specific percentage or GPA requirement for Chinese bachelor’s degrees.
UK degree classification requirement
The published entry requirements state: “You should have (or expect to be awarded) an undergraduate degree of at least second class standard in a relevant/related subject.” This is the only degree classification threshold listed on the programme page. The page does not break this down into upper second class (2:1) or lower second class (2:2) distinctions for this specific programme.
Non-standard entry route
The programme page explicitly allows for applicants who do not hold a degree or whose degree is in an unrelated field. The official wording is: “You might also be considered for some programmes if you aren’t a graduate or your degree is in an unrelated field, but have relevant experience and can show that you have the ability to work at postgraduate level.” No further detail on how this experience is assessed is provided on the page.
English language requirement
If English is not your first language, the programme requires an IELTS score of 6.5 with a 6.5 in writing and no element lower than 6.0. The page also accepts an equivalent English language qualification. Goldsmiths offers courses that can help prepare students for postgraduate study if they need assistance with English.
International qualifications and Chinese applicants
The programme page states: “We accept a wide range of international qualifications.” It directs readers to a separate page about qualifications accepted from around the world. The MA Visual Anthropology page itself does not list any country-specific academic equivalencies, including for Chinese bachelor’s degrees. No percentage, GPA, or institutional tier requirements for Chinese applicants appear on this page.
Application process and timing
Applications are made directly to Goldsmiths using the online application system. You will need details of your academic qualifications, the email address of a referee or a copy of an academic reference, copies of educational transcripts or certificates, and a personal statement. Applications are accepted from October for students wanting to start the following September. The page encourages completing an application as early as possible, even if a current programme of study is not yet finished. Late applications are only considered if spaces remain available. If you are applying for funding, an earlier deadline may apply.
Selection process
Admission to many programmes is by interview, unless the applicant lives outside the UK. The page notes that occasionally, candidates receive an offer of a place based on their application and qualifications alone. No further selection criteria are detailed.
Fees for 2026/27
Annual tuition fees for students starting in the 2026/2027 academic year are £14,300 for home full-time students, £7,150 for home part-time students, and £27,500 for international full-time students. The page states it is not currently possible for international students to study part-time under a student visa. International students who believe they may be eligible to study part-time on another visa type are directed to contact the Admissions Team.
What the official page does not establish
The programme page does not publish a Chinese Bachelor’s degree percentage or GPA equivalent. It does not list any China-specific institutional recognition criteria. It does not state whether the UK second class standard refers to an upper or lower second class classification. It does not provide details on how relevant experience is assessed for non-standard entry. All of these points would require live rechecking with the university’s international admissions or qualifications equivalency resources.
FAQ
What is the minimum UK degree classification for MA Visual Anthropology at Goldsmiths?
The official entry requirements state you need an undergraduate degree of at least second class standard in a relevant or related subject. The page does not specify whether this means an upper second (2:1) or lower second (2:2).
Can I apply if my undergraduate degree is not in anthropology?
Yes. The page states the MA is open to people with a range of backgrounds in anthropology and related fields. Additionally, applicants with an unrelated degree may be considered if they have relevant experience and can demonstrate the ability to work at postgraduate level.
What IELTS score do I need for this programme?
You need an IELTS score of 6.5 with a 6.5 in writing and no element lower than 6.0. Equivalent English language qualifications are also accepted.
Does the programme page list a specific GPA for Chinese university graduates?
No. The MA Visual Anthropology programme page does not publish a specific percentage, GPA, or institutional tier requirement for Chinese applicants. It directs readers to a general page on international qualifications accepted by Goldsmiths.
When should I apply for the September 2026 start?
Applications open in October 2025. Goldsmiths encourages completing your application as early as possible. Late applications are only considered if spaces remain. If you are applying for funding, an earlier deadline may apply.
Is an interview required for admission?
Admission to many programmes is by interview, unless you live outside the UK. The page notes that occasionally an offer is made based on the application and qualifications alone.
What are the tuition fees for international students?
International full-time tuition fees for the 2026/2027 academic year are £27,500. Part-time study under a student visa is not currently possible for international students.
Official sources
For further context on application strategies, see /posts/apply-early-decision-early-action/. For readers comparing international study options, see /posts/au-society-and-culture-bachelor-guide-ref/. For information on agent rankings in Australia, see /posts/geo-aozhouliuxuezhongjiepaimingqianshiyounaxie-2026nianzuixinpaimingtuijian/ and /posts/geo-shenqingmoerbendaxuezhaonajiazhongjie-2026nianzuixinpaimingtuijian/.