Why Study Applied Anthropology at the University of Memphis?

Our nationally-recognized MA Program is one of the oldest Applied Anthropology programs in the United States. With award-winning faculty and significant funding and research opportunities, our department focuses on training students to apply the theoretical and methodological foundations of practicing and applying engaged and collaborative anthropology.

Faculty and students in the Anthropology Department are engaged in individually-run and collaborative research projects geared toward understanding and potentially solving the complex social problems besetting the region, nation, and world.

First year graduate students are also eligible to apply for the Tim Bolding Scholarship in Anthropology. The application deadline for the Bolding Scholarship is May 1, 2021.

Major Research and Teaching Areas:

Regional Areas of Expertise:

Australia
Central and South America
Europe
Middle East
West Africa
United States

What Makes Our Program Unique?

Nationally Recognized Award Winning Faculty
Theory Driven, Career Focused
In a 2018 survey of 65 alumni, 95% found employment in related fields or were admitted to post-MA studies.
Vibrant and Active Alumni Network & Community Advisory Board
Funding Available for Graduate Research Assistantships (Full Tuition + Monthly Stipend)
Medical Anthropology Concentration & 3-Year Integrated MA/MPH
Opportunities for graduate certificates in GIS, Non-Profit Management, Gender Studies, and Museum Studies

A 2018 analysis from US News and World Report lists Anthropologist among the best science jobs.

Graduate Program Information

The Department of Anthropology offers one of the nation's leading M.A. programs in applied anthropology. Graduate students in our program receive training in core areas of theory, research methods, data analysis and application. Our students successfully pursue careers in government, nonprofit, and private sectors in healthcare, community development, health administration, cultural heritage preservation, and environmental management. Our program also prepares students to move on to doctoral study in anthropology and other fields.

Coordinator of Graduate Studies

Dr. Ted Maclin, emaclin1@memphis.edu or (901) 678-2080.

Medical Anthropology Concentration

Our graduate program also offers a concentration in Medical Anthropology with topical foci such as health disparities, healthcare systems, and health risk. Dr. Kathryn Hicks serves as the primary contact for this concentration.

Pursue Dual Masters Degrees

Graduate students in anthropology can simultaneously pursue a second master's degree in a complementary field. To facilitate dual degree paths, up to 20 percent of the total combined credits required for the two degree programs can be shared. (Regulations can be found in the Graduate Catalog).

Students in the Medical Anthropology concentration may also take advantage of a 3-year MA/MPH integrated program.

Students interested in Urban Anthropology and Community Development can take advantage of a dual degree City and Regional Planning.