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Module Content

This module provides the core course for the MSc in Biosocial Medical Anthropology. The aim of the MSc in Biosocial Medical Anthropology is to provide a unique advanced taught degree in the concepts, tools and techniques necessary to examine the biosocial dimensions of health and disease from a cross-disciplinary anthropological perspective.

In Term 1 of this two-term core course, we will critically examine and engage with approaches, theories, topics and themes related to Biosocial Medical Anthropology. Developing a cross-disciplinary perspective that brings together insights from Medical/Social Anthropology; Evolutionary/Biological Anthropology; and Human Ecology, we will consider and address the importance, utility and challenges of productively aligning ecological, evolutionary, environmental and cultural-historical approaches in the context of health. Students will be introduced to key concepts and theories in Biosocial Medical Anthropology as well as case study material from around the world on issues that may include infectious disease, mental health, chronic illness and well-being.

In Term Two, the core seminar is based around applying biosocial research methods in contexts where wellbeing, health and illness are being addressed through a biosocial lens, as well as gaining skills necessary to undertake the dissertation component of the degree. Students will examine methodological and ethical issues in the practical application of anthropological research, providing insight into how biosocial approaches are used and adapted in addressing specific health care challenges. There will be opportunities for students present their own work in progress on dissertation projects.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course students will have gained:

1. Knowledge and understanding of key cross-disciplinary approaches, concepts and theories (i.e., from across Medical/Social Anthropology; Evolutionary/Biological Anthropology and Human Ecology) within the field of biosocial medical anthropology;
2. An ability to apply theoretical concepts and diverse methodological approaches from across different subsections of anthropology in addressing health care challenges from a biosocial perspective
3. An improved and increased ability to explain and communicate research, identify and solve problems, reason critically, analyse and interpret
4. An increased ability to demonstrate and exercise independent thinking.

Indicative Delivery method

The course is delivered by a weekly 2-hour seminars running across term one and term two.

Additional Information

Formative assessments:

Term One - Students will complete and receive formative feedback on a plan relating to how they will approach the summative essay question.

Term Two - Students will complete and receive formative feedback on a plan relating to how they will approach the summative research proposal.