About this degree
Students new to anthropology develop an understanding of anthropological approaches to experiences of illness and health, gaining skills required in anthropological field research and analysis. For students with previous social science training, we focus on dimensions particular to medical anthropology (e.g. diversity issues in clinical practice, therapeutic narratives, critical medical anthropology, traditional medical systems, mental health).
Who this course is for
The MSc in Medical Anthropology appeals to a wide and diverse cohort. Students come from a range of backgrounds; while some have medical or anthropological training, others are new to both. The degree provides in-depth anthropological training for those wishing to progress to a PhD and for those who want to employ anthropological techniques in their professional work. We recruit a mix of clinicians and social scientists, finding that the interaction between these student groups helps create an exciting and vibrant cohort.
What this course will give you
Our approach to Medical Anthropology is broad and open-minded. It encompasses applied work, analysis of cultural diversity issues in clinical practice, therapeutic narratives, critical medical anthropology, ageing, infectious disease, global health, studies of traditional medical systems and ritual healing, psychological anthropology, mental health, and biosocial approaches.
UCL Anthropology was the first in the UK to integrate biological and social anthropology with material culture into a broad-based conception of the discipline. UCL Medical Anthropology became the fourth major section of the department, integrating interpretive, critical and applied Medical Anthropology perspectives.
