Academic Resources: graduate programs
University of Buffalo
Degrees offered:
M.A.
Medical Anthropology Faculty:
Ann McElroy and Donald Pollock are co-directors.
Anthropology Faculty:
Departmental faculty with interests in medical anthropology and associated topics include Ted Steegmann, Chris Duggleby, Ana Mariella Bacigalupo, Barbara Tedlock, Bob Dentan, David Banks, and Ezra Zubrow. Other faculty are Richard Lee (adjunct in Anthropology, faculty in the School of Medicine), Pat Townsend (adjunct in Anthropology), Mary Ann Jezewski (faculty, School of Nursing), Sharon Hewner (adjunct in Anthropology, employed at Independent Health Association), Linda Kahn (adjunct in Anthropology, employed at Family Medicine, Erie County Medical Center), and Luis Zayas (adjunct in Anthropology, employed at Family Medicine, Erie County Medical Center).
Program information:
The Applied Medical Anthropology concentration offers a Master's degree for students interested in using anthropological theory and methods in research on regional, national, and international health problems. Through small seminars, field placements, and mentoring, the program emphasizes experiential, hands-on training as well as academic preparation for research and service careers in community and international health.
The applied specialization is part of the program in Medical Anthropology at SUNY Buffalo. The difference between the doctoral program and the M.A. track is that the Master's students specialize more quickly than do most graduate students, preparing for a first-year qualifying exam in applied medical anthropology rather than in cultural or physical anthropology and beginning a major research project by the third semester.
After completion of the M.A. degree, usually in the second year, graduates are encouraged to pursue various career goals. Employment may be sought through community agencies, research centers, and institutional grants and projects. Continued training at the University at Buffalo or elsewhere toward an M.PH. (Master's of Public Health), an M.S. in Epidemiology, a certificate program in Environmental Health, and similar opportunities will lead to research positions and administrative employment. Those planning on clinical careers may apply to schools of medicine, dentistry, social work, and other health professions. Students who decide to pursue a Ph.D. in medical anthropology may apply for continued study in the UB Anthropology department or at other institutions.
Contact Information:
Dr. Ann McElroy, 716-645-2291, or mcelroy@buffalo.edu
Dr. Donald Pollock, 716-645-3080, or dpollock@buffalo.edu or
Ms. Margaret Kasprzyk, 716-645-2414, or mmk22@buffalo.edu