The Department of Anthropology together with the Master of Public Health Program in the Case School of Medicine have combined resources to better meet the growing demand among students for joint training. The course of study leads to an MA/MPH or PhD/MPH, preparing students for both professional and academic careers in Anthropology and Public Health. The joint program also provides opportunities for interaction and collaboration between the two programs to create a unique and stimulating intellectual environment for the study of health and society.
How does the program work?
When students enter the joint program they designate a home department (either Anthropology or the MPH program) where they work with an advisor to develop a study plan to meet all requirements.
Nine credit hours (the equivalent of one full-time semester) are shared between the departments to reduce the time to achieve the joint degrees.
The MPH course of study includes a 9 credit hour “capstone” experience in which students are placed in local public health-oriented organizations to gain real world experience. See the Master of Public Health Program for more details.
Coursework for the MA/MPH, including the capstone experience, can be completed in 3 years. A minimum of one additional year is required to complete anthropology PhD coursework requirements.
Students who “high pass” the Anthropology MA exam and advance to the PhD program, may modify the joint study plan to accommodate PhD requirements, which include additional coursework, field exams, proposal writing, and research.
Who can apply?
- Students with BA or BS degrees in any field
- Students with a master’s degree in anthropology from other institutions
- Case Department of Anthropology graduate students who decide during the course of their studies to also pursue MPH degrees.
Study plans and time to degree will vary widely depending on previous coursework.
How do I apply?
Submit your application online!
More detailed instructions can be found here.
*The same recommendations, GRE scores, transcripts, and Statement of Purpose can be used for the joint Anthropology/MPH application. The Statement of Purpose should directly indicate that you are applying to the joint program and explain why you would like to pursue a joint degree.
For application deadlines on the Anthropology and MPH programs, visit here.
There is limited funding available on a competitive basis for Anthropology graduate students. For further information, contact Dr. Janet McGrath at janet.mcgrath@case.edu or (216) 368-2287.
Who can I contact if I have more questions?
For questions concerning logistical aspects of the application process for the Department of Anthropology you can contact us at (216) 368-3703 / (216) 368-2264 or anthropology@case.edu.
Questions regarding the MPH application can be directed to Tara Hannum, Administrative Director, at (216) 368-7567 or tara.hannum@case.edu.
If you have further questions concerning courses, concentrations, or other academic aspects of the joint program training, contact Dr. Janet McGrath, the joint program advisor in the Department of Anthropology, at janet.mcgrath@case.edu or (216) 368-2287.