University of Pennsylvania

Overview

The PhD in Medical Anthropology at the University of Pennsylvania is designed to equip students with the skills necessary for doctoral-level research in the field. This program explores the intricate ways in which health, illness, and healthcare systems are influenced by cultural, biological, historical, and power dynamics. Students will be prepared to conduct independent research and develop specialized expertise in various subfields of medical anthropology.

What you'll study

The program integrates advanced coursework with research development, leading to the completion of a dissertation. Students engage in core and methods-focused coursework, such as:

• Contemporary Archaeology in Theory
• Evolutionary Anthropology
• Language in Culture and Society
• Contemporary Approaches to the Study of Culture and Society
• Methods and Grantwriting for Anthropological Research

Research development is supported through:

• Ongoing research seminars and collaborative engagement with faculty and peers.
• Training in qualitative and mixed-method approaches tailored to medical anthropology.
• Support for dissertation planning, proposal development, and writing.

To earn the PhD, students must complete an original doctoral dissertation based on their independent research.

Entry requirements

Applicants should prepare the following:

• A personal statement (maximum 1,000 words).
• Transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate studies.
• Three letters of recommendation.
• Proof of English proficiency through TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language).
• A writing sample showcasing academic ability.

There are no specific GRE, GMAT, or GPA requirements listed for this program.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD in Medical Anthropology can pursue diverse career paths in academia, research institutions, public health organizations, and non-governmental organizations. They may also engage in policy-making, program evaluation, and advocacy work, applying their expertise to address health disparities and improve healthcare systems worldwide.