MA in Anthropology
Build advanced research skills and shape questions that matter
The MA in Anthropology at the University at Buffalo is designed for students who want rigorous training in anthropological research and theory. You will study people, cultures and human history through graduate level coursework, work closely with faculty mentors and complete a substantial research-based project or thesis. The program prepares you for doctoral study or for applied careers that value deep cultural insight and analytical thinking.
Graduate study in anthropology at UB emphasizes flexibility, mentorship and hands-on research from the very beginning. Students shape their own paths while gaining a strong foundation across the discipline.
At UB, you will:
- Work closely with faculty mentors who guide your coursework and research
- Explore archaeology, cultural anthropology, medical anthropology and biological anthropology
- Combine anthropological training with approved coursework in related fields
- Join an active research community that values collaboration and intellectual curiosity
- Complete a culminating research project or thesis aligned with your academic and professional goals
The MA in Anthropology combines graduate seminars, independent research and a culminating project or thesis. Students begin working with faculty early to design a course plan that reflects their interests and prepares them for their next step, whether that is doctoral study or professional work.
Key features of the program include:
- Graduate survey and theory coursework
- Advanced seminars across anthropology’s subfields
- Elective coursework tailored to individual interests
- A faculty-supervised research project or thesis
Medical anthropology concentration
Focus on health, illness and care systems through a specialized pathway within the MA in Anthropology. Ideal for students interested in public health, global health and policy.
> Explore the MA in Anthropology: Medical Anthropology Concentration
MA students deepen their expertise in one or more areas of anthropology while maintaining a strong foundation across the discipline. Areas of study include:
Students may combine subfield training or complement anthropology coursework with approved courses in other disciplines, allowing for highly individualized academic pathways.
Through coursework and research, MA students develop advanced skills that support doctoral study and professional work. Graduates of the program are prepared to:
- Demonstrate mastery of anthropological methods and theory across the major subfields
- Understand the history of anthropology and current directions in the field
- Design and conduct original research on anthropological topics
- Apply appropriate qualitative and quantitative methods in research
- Communicate research findings clearly through professional writing
MA to PhD pathway
Some students enter the MA program with the goal of continuing on to doctoral study. Students who wish to apply to the PhD in Anthropology may do so after completing the MA and meeting doctoral admissions criteria.
Graduates of the MA in Anthropology build careers that apply research, cultural insight and analytical thinking across many fields. Some students continue to doctoral study, while others move directly into professional roles.
With this degree, you may pursue careers in:
- Research and academia: research assistant, program coordinator, academic or applied researcher
- Public health and health systems: community health research, program evaluation, health policy support
- Government and policy: policy analysis, community development, public sector research
- Nonprofit and advocacy organizations: program management, outreach, global development work
- Museums and cultural institutions: collections management, curation support, public programming
- Business and applied research: user experience research, market research, organizational analysis
Employers value anthropology graduates for their ability to:
- Analyze complex social and cultural systems
- Conduct rigorous qualitative and quantitative research
- Communicate insights clearly to different audiences
- Work across disciplines and communities
This combination of skills prepares graduates for flexible, meaningful careers and continued academic study.
If you are ready to deepen your understanding of anthropology and develop the research skills needed for advanced study or applied work, the MA in Anthropology at UB offers a flexible and supportive graduate experience.
We are happy to help you explore whether this program is the right fit.
