Why I chose to study the MSc in Medical Anthropology

Tell us a bit about yourself!

I’m a medical student at Sunderland University. I have completed 4 years of medicine and am currently studying Medical Anthropology at Durham University as an intercalated degree.

I have an interest in elderly care medicine and palliative care, and I have chosen to write my dissertation on how religion impacts palliative care in the UK.

What led you to do a MSc in Medical Anthropology at Durham University?

I decided early on in my medical course that I wanted to do an intercalated degree to learn more about research and broaden my career options.

When looking for master’s degree options to apply for, I was intrigued by the Medical Anthropology course as it was so different to the other courses I had come across at other universities.

The course offers a wide range of modules to choose from, including language modules, so you have the opportunity to explore other topics you may be interested in. I chose this course at Durham as it allows me to do research focused on people’s individual experiences and narratives, rather than more impersonal lab-based research that may have been more prevalent on other courses.

Durham is a great place to study as there are so many extracurricular opportunities too, and the college system helps to build a sense of community.

What advice would you give to medical students considering studying Medical Anthropology?

These courses are great for anyone who would like to experience studying a course that is very different, although still applicable, to medicine.

Be prepared to discuss more theoretical topics than the solid facts you will be used to from medicine!

While even the medical anthropology course is not entirely medically-focused, you will learn a new way of critical thinking that can be applied to all aspects of life, and will help you to become a more well-rounded doctor in the future.

If you do come to Durham, don’t forget to take advantage of the many societies and clubs they have on offer – there’s something for everyone! I also highly recommend taking a language module if you are interested.

I hope you enjoy your time here as much as I have!