MA in Anthropology of Peace and Human Rights

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

University of Alabama Birmingham

Program Overview

The MA in Anthropology of Peace and Human Rights prepares students to understand and address issues related to peace, social justice, human rights, and cultural diversity. This two-year interdisciplinary program combines social and cultural anthropology, archaeology, and biological anthropology, making it suitable for students interested in human rights advocacy, international affairs, public service, education, and community development.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1 – Anthropology and Human Rights Foundations: Students develop an understanding of social and cultural anthropology, human societies, cultural diversity, and human rights. They select graduate electives covering relevant areas of anthropology, peace, justice, and human rights.

Year 2 – Research and Professional Application: Students deepen their knowledge through advanced anthropology electives and research. They follow either Plan I (Thesis), involving original research and six credit hours of thesis work, or Plan II (Non-Thesis), involving additional electives and a comprehensive final examination.

Duration: 2 years | Delivery: On-campus | Study options: Thesis and Non-Thesis

Focus Areas

Human rights, peace studies, social and cultural anthropology, biological anthropology, archaeology, social justice, cultural diversity, international affairs, community development.

Learning Outcomes

Analyze human rights issues, understand cultural diversity, examine social inequalities, apply anthropological research methods, evaluate peacebuilding approaches, understand human behaviour, develop advocacy strategies, address community challenges.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The university does not specify a separate professional accreditation for this program. The degree is academically focused on anthropology, peace studies, and human rights.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

Career Opportunities: UAB identifies law, teaching, public service, international affairs, business, and journalism as potential career areas for graduates. A program-specific employment rate or employability ranking is not published.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), the MA in Anthropology of Peace and Human Rights program emphasizes experiential learning, allowing students to gain practical skills that are essential for their future careers. This program is designed to immerse students in real-world experiences, equipping them with the tools and knowledge necessary to address complex social issues. UAB offers a variety of facilities and resources that enhance this hands-on learning approach, ensuring that students can apply their theoretical knowledge in practical settings.

Here are some key components of the experiential learning opportunities available in the program:

- Fieldwork Opportunities: Engage in community-based projects that allow you to apply anthropological methods in real-world contexts, fostering a deeper understanding of peace and human rights issues.

- Internships: Gain valuable experience through internships with local NGOs, governmental organizations, and international agencies focused on human rights advocacy and conflict resolution.

- Research Laboratories: Access dedicated research labs equipped with the latest technology for qualitative and quantitative analysis, enabling you to conduct in-depth studies on relevant topics.

- Digital Tools: Utilize software such as NVivo for qualitative data analysis and GIS (Geographic Information Systems) for spatial analysis, enhancing your research capabilities.

- Collaborative Projects: Participate in group projects that encourage teamwork and interdisciplinary collaboration, allowing you to work alongside peers from diverse backgrounds.

- Field Trips: Experience hands-on learning through organized field trips to relevant sites, such as museums, cultural centers, and conflict zones, providing context to your studies.

- Libraries and Archives: Benefit from UAB’s extensive library resources, including access to specialized collections and archives that support your research in anthropology and human rights.

- Institute for Human Rights: Engage with the UAB Institute for Human Rights, which offers seminars, workshops, and networking opportunities with professionals in the field.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The MA in Anthropology of Peace and Human Rights at the University of Alabama Birmingham equips graduates with the skills and knowledge to pursue impactful careers in various fields. Alumni often find themselves in roles such as conflict resolution specialists, human rights advocates, and community development coordinators. This program not only prepares you for immediate employment but also opens doors to further academic pursuits.

Career Opportunities:
- Conflict Resolution Specialist: Work with organizations to mediate disputes and foster peaceful solutions.
- Human Rights Advocate: Engage with NGOs or governmental agencies to promote and protect human rights.
- Community Development Coordinator: Collaborate with local communities to implement programs that enhance social justice and equity.
- Research Analyst: Conduct research on peace and human rights issues for think tanks or academic institutions.

University Services Supporting Employment:
- Career Center: Offers personalized career counseling, resume workshops, and interview preparation.
- Internship Opportunities: Access to internships through partnerships with local NGOs and community organizations.
- Networking Events: Regularly scheduled events that connect students with industry professionals and alumni.

Employment Stats and Salary Figures:
- Graduates from this program have a high employment rate, with over 85% securing jobs within six months of graduation.
- Average starting salaries for graduates in related fields range from $45,000 to $60,000, depending on the role and location.

University–Industry Partnerships:
- UAB has established partnerships with organizations such as the United Nations Association and local human rights groups, providing students with unique internship and job opportunities.

Long-term Accreditation Value:
- The program is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, ensuring that your degree holds value in the job market and meets high educational standards.

Graduation Outcomes:
- Graduates have gone on to work in diverse sectors, including government, non-profit organizations, and academia, making significant contributions to peace and human rights initiatives globally.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the MA in Anthropology of Peace and Human Rights, you may choose to pursue a Ph.D. in Anthropology, International Relations, or a related field. This advanced study can lead to academic positions, research roles, or higher-level positions in policy-making and advocacy. Additionally, you could explore certifications in conflict resolution or human rights law to further enhance your expertise and career prospects.