Dual Degree MPH Program (MPH/Anthropology MA or PhD)

Program Highlights & Accreditation

The Department of Anthropology at Case Western Reserve University, in collaboration with the Master of Public Health Program in the Case School of Medicine, offers a joint degree program leading to an MA/MPH or PhD/MPH. This program is designed to meet the growing demand for interdisciplinary training, preparing students for both professional and academic careers in Anthropology and Public Health. It aims to create a unique intellectual environment for the study of health and society. Nine credit hours are shared between the departments to reduce the time to achieve the joint degrees. Accreditation details for the MPH program are not specified in the provided context.

Delivery Modes

The program is delivered on-campus, as evidenced by the requirement for students to be placed in local public health-oriented organizations for their capstone experience. The structure, including shared coursework equivalent to a full-time semester, suggests a full-time study pace. Specific details on part-time or online/hybrid options are not provided for this joint program.

Curriculum Overview

Students in the joint program designate a home department (Anthropology or MPH) and work with an advisor to develop a study plan. A key feature is the sharing of nine credit hours between the departments. The MPH course of study includes a significant 9-credit hour capstone experience, where students gain real-world experience in local public health-oriented organizations. For students pursuing the Anthropology PhD, the joint study plan can be modified to accommodate PhD requirements, including additional coursework, field exams, proposal writing, and research. See the Master of Public Health Program for more details.

Admissions Requirements

The joint MA/MPH or PhD/MPH program is open to a range of applicants:

• Students with BA or BS degrees in any field.

• Students with a master’s degree in anthropology from other institutions.

• Current Case Western Reserve University Department of Anthropology graduate students who decide during their studies to also pursue MPH degrees.

A single set of recommendations, GRE scores, transcripts, and a Statement of Purpose can be used for the joint Anthropology/MPH application. The Statement of Purpose must clearly indicate application to the joint program and explain the motivation for pursuing a joint degree. Study plans and time to degree may vary based on previous coursework.

Career & Practical Experience

The program prepares students for diverse professional and academic careers that bridge Anthropology and Public Health. A central component of the practical experience is the MPH capstone, a 9-credit hour placement in local public health-oriented organizations, allowing students to apply their knowledge and gain real-world skills.