Pathway to Public Health: Biomedical Anthropology

Binghamton students have a tendency to get creative with cross-disciplinary programs that combine their various interests. Biomedical anthropology is one such master’s degree program that allows students the opportunity to study human health, healthcare systems, and the cultural significance of health and disease. This sets students up for careers in public health. In a post-coronavirus world, this kind of training is especially in demand, and Binghamton student Anna Lynch is currently interning for the Broome County Health Department to assist with pandemic response efforts. Read about her story, as well as alumna Sarah Walker, who works to combat lead poisonings, here.

Biomedical anthropology graduates have opportunities to pursue careers outside of public health as well. Some go on to work on research and study ancient humans (including migration patterns and evolution), the history of diseases, medicine, and genetics. They can also engage in journalism that brings this science and information to the public, focus on international nutrition, or pursue careers in museums. For students who are interested in public health, there are several other majors that qualify them for public health careers, including public administration or policy, biomedical engineering, social work, and science majors such as chemistry and biology on a pre-med track. Schedule an appointment with a career consultant for tailored advice on how to pursue a career in public health or leverage a biomedical anthropology degree.

By Julia Sullivan
Julia Sullivan Marketing Graduate Assistant