Boston University

Overview

The Master of Science in Medical Anthropology and Cross-Cultural Practice (MACCP) at Boston University equips students with the theoretical foundations and qualitative research skills necessary to navigate clinical and community contexts. This immersive program emphasizes hands-on experience through fieldwork and a service-learning internship, fostering a deep understanding of medical anthropology's practical applications.

What you'll study

MACCP is structured around core theories, applied learning, and professional growth. Students engage in required courses, electives, internships, and professional workshops to enhance their expertise.

Core coursework (examples)

• History and Theory of Medical Anthropology
• Medical Anthropological and Qualitative Research Methods and Design
• IRB Proposal Development and Writing
• Reading Ethnography in Medical Anthropology
• Writing Ethnography in Medical Anthropology

Electives and concentration

Students can tailor their education by selecting electives that align with their research interests, allowing them to develop expertise in specific areas such as clinical practice, health systems, migration and health, or disability and care.

Applied learning components

• Service-learning internship: A structured opportunity that integrates classroom theory with real-world community or clinical practice.
• Summer fieldwork: An essential field-based research component that supports the student’s individual research agenda and thesis work.

Professional development and research engagement

• Research-in-Progress meetings: Weekly departmental activities where students engage with clinician researchers and discuss ongoing research.
• Professional development workshops: Sessions focused on enhancing academic communication, research dissemination, and career readiness.

Capstone / culminating work

Students culminate their studies with a research project based on their approved plan, which may include an IRB-ready proposal and a final research deliverable in line with program standards.

Entry requirements

Academic requirements

• A bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) from an accredited institution is required.
• Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended must be submitted; unofficial copies may be accepted for initial review.
• GRE scores may be required; applicants should verify the current policy with the BU MACCP program.

English language proficiency

• TOEFL iBT: minimum score of 90 (or equivalent test accepted)
• IELTS (Academic): minimum score of 7.0
• Duolingo English Test: minimum score of 125

Other requirements

• Three letters of recommendation from faculty members, research advisors, or similar academic and professional sources are required.

Career prospects

The MACCP program prepares graduates for diverse career paths in healthcare, academia, research, non-profit organizations, and public health sectors. The blend of qualitative research skills and hands-on experience equips students to address complex health issues in various cultural contexts, making them valuable assets in interdisciplinary teams focused on improving health outcomes.