Choosing PHD anthro program outside the U.S.

[Luis M Ortiz]

Hi, looking for advice finding a Phd program in cultural anthro outside the US. I am interested in studying issues of cultural identity, specifically as it relates to diaspora communities and how identity markers such as nationality, ethnicity and race are imagined and maintained both by minoritiy communities as well as that of the majority. I would like to focus on an Asian country.

Thanks.

[hj2012]

I think you'll need to say a little more. "Outside the US" hardly narrows things down. Where do you want to end up eventually? What do you want to do with your degree? Do you already have a master's degree? Are you looking to study in Asia?

[Luis M Ortiz]

Right. I would like to get a Phd in another country somewhere in Asia for two reasons. First i will be focusing on this area of the world and secondly because my aim is to go into teaching at an "Asian" university. In addition, I figure it would help with studying closer to my fieldwork sight. As well as language learning. I currently have an MA in cultural anthro and have been adjuncting for the last two years here in the U.S.

[hj2012]

OK. "Asia" is still huge. What country are you interested in? And what are your language capacities currently? FYI, in many places you would have better luck finding a teaching position after graduating from a university in the States. 

That said, a PhD is a huge commitment - and a PhD in a different country is an even bigger one. If I were you, I would select the country of interest and apply to shorter-term fellowships (Fulbright, Princeton-in-Asia, teaching programs such as JET or EPIK, etc) to get a sense for the place and to start language acquisition. 

[Luis M Ortiz]

Thanks for the advice.