Undergraduate
Biomedical Anthropology B.S.
The USF Medical Anthropology B.S. provides students with key concepts in anthropology, health and illness, and human biology. Students will use biological, cultural, and medical anthropology to approach human health from a holistic, cross-cultural perspective. Drawing on the applied focus of the department, the Biomedical Anthropology major is ideal for students who want to apply anthropological perspectives to human health and healthcare systems. This degree prepares undergraduates for futures in medical-related disciplines such as medicine, nursing, and dentistry. Most professional anthropological jobs require a graduate degree.
The Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Anthropology will ground students in key concepts in anthropology, health and illness, and human biology. Students will learn to use biological, cultural, and medical anthropology to approach human health from a holistic, cross-cultural perspective. Students will learn how to examine human health and well-being in the context of human biological and cultural diversity, understand the connections between health and disease and human social and evolutionary contexts, and apply these anthropological perspectives to human illness, treatment, and healthcare systems
The Biomedical Anthropology major provides 1) an understanding of the core anthropological theories and methods used to study human health and illness, 2) an introduction to the basics of biological science, 3) an awareness of social inequalities and how they are manifested in human bodies, 4) an introduction to the ethics of human research, and 5) research, critical thinking, and writing skills that can be used in a wide variety of professional settings and graduate work, including professional school for allied health careers. Alongside their coursework, students will learn through community-based, applied research that is holistic and interdisciplinary.
Anthropology examines culture, race, ethnicity, class, gender, and inequality and emphasizes effective cross-cultural communication. Students will learn how to work with diverse populations and how to better understand local and global diversity. Biomedical Anthropology (BAN) majors will be able to identify inequalities in health outcomes (including race, ethnicity, class, gender, sexuality, dis/ability, and others) and apply anthropological concepts to explain these outcomes and identify potential solutions.
Where will my degree take me?
A B.S. in Medical Anthropology prepares students for a number of careers, including Doctor/Dentist, Public Health Professional, Forensic Scientist, Nurse/Nurse Practitioner, Healthcare Professional, Anthropologist, Human Rights, Education, Resource Management, Natural & Cultural Disasters, International Relations, and Community Development. Most professional anthropological jobs require a graduate degree.
REQUIREMENTS FOR THE MAJOR IN ANTHROPOLOGY
Always refer to the Undergraduate Catalog for degree requirements. Students will normally begin progress toward the major by taking at least one course from the major core, as these often serve as prerequisites for the electives. Students are urged to consult with the anthropology advisor to create the most beneficial set of courses.