Medical Anthropology and Sociology (MSc)

Introduction

Medical anthropologists and sociologists study health, illness, and healing from a broad, interdisciplinary perspective. Their research both addresses theoretical problems in the social sciences, and contributes to applied and policy issues in health care. They study the meanings of illness experiences, the socioeconomic factors shaping health and suffering, and the cultural dimensions of healing practices. 

The programme in Medical Anthropology and Sociology is an intensive one-year Master's degree combining coursework and a thesis project based on fieldwork. It equips students with skills to undertake individually designed research projects, trains them in social science theory and methods, and gives them a critical understanding of health challenges in a globalised and multicultural world. 

Studying Medical Anthropology and Sociology at the University of Amsterdam

The Medical Anthropology and Sociology programme is designed for students with a Bachelor's in social science who want a Master's level specialisation, as well as for health care practitioners and development professionals seeking research skills and training in the health social sciences. It also provides preparation for students wishing to do a PhD. Students may conduct their research either in the Netherlands or in other countries, and may write their theses in either English or Dutch.

The University of Amsterdam is a pioneer in the rapidly growing fields of medical anthropology and sociology. Our researchers have a broad array of theoretical specialisations, such as: global health inequalities; clinically relevant research; science and technology studies; medical enhancement; health, personhood and morality; ethnographies of policy making; HIV/AIDS; and child, reproductive and sexual health. They carry out research in Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas. 

Medical Anthropology and Sociology as a part-time programme

Part-time study is not possible in this programme.