Master of Social Work - Traditional
The traditional Master of Social Work (MSW) program at the University at Buffalo is des...
M.A. in Drugs, Health and Society
Buffalo, New York
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The M.A. in Drugs, Health and Society at UB is a 30-credit hour program that provides advanced training in both the science and the politics of drugs and addiction. It aims to prepare students for a wide range of careers in fields such as addiction treatment, addiction research, drug policy, advocacy, and related sectors like journalism, human resources, or criminal justice. The program allows students to choose a specialty emphasis in one of two concentrations: "Science and Health" or "Society and Politics," ensuring a tailored educational experience while still providing a holistic understanding of the subject matter.
Curriculum: The 30-credit curriculum is structured to provide a broad yet deep understanding of drugs, health, and society. Students in both concentrations ("Science and Health" and "Society and Politics") take foundational courses that cover the scientific, therapeutic, social, and political dimensions of drugs and addiction. For instance, common required courses might include "Harm Reduction" or "Public Health Perspectives on Addiction," and courses on the psychology of drug addiction. Each concentration then has specific course requirements drawing from relevant departments. The "Science and Health" concentration emphasizes courses in Public Health, Nursing, Pharmacology & Toxicology, Psychology, and Social Work. The "Society and Politics" concentration focuses on courses in Public Health, Pharmacology & Toxicology, Psychology, Social Work, History, and Sociology. Students also have elective options, allowing further specialization.
Research Focus: The M.A. in Drugs, Health and Society program at UB has a strong research focus that emphasizes a critical and interdisciplinary approach to understanding drugs and addiction. The program's creators, such as history professor David Herzberg, advocate for a "humanistic, social and political approach to drugs," contrasting with programs that focus solely on the science of addiction. Research interests within the program delve into topics like the history of drug use and policy, the social determinants of addiction, the impact of drug policy on individuals and communities, the opioid crisis from multiple perspectives, the decriminalization of marijuana, and the medical use of psychedelics. Students develop analytical skills to effectively understand and communicate about the social and political dimensions of drugs, drug policy, addiction, and addiction treatment.
Industry Engagement: The M.A. in Drugs, Health and Society program at UB is designed to prepare students for "a wide range of careers." The interdisciplinary nature of the program inherently connects students with diverse professional fields, including addiction treatment centers, research institutions, public health agencies, government bodies involved in drug policy, advocacy organizations, and even media and criminal justice sectors. While specific formal industry partnerships or mandatory internships are not explicitly detailed in the general program overview, the program's strong vocational focus means that faculty with direct experience in these fields provide practical insights. The program aims to "spawn larger, regional change by connecting students with professionals and agencies around Western New York," indicating an emphasis on real-world application and networking opportunities within relevant industries and public service.
Global Perspective: The M.A. in Drugs, Health and Society program at UB, by addressing the complexities of drugs and health within a societal context, naturally embraces a global perspective. Issues surrounding drug use, addiction, and policy are not confined to national borders but are global phenomena influenced by international trends, cultural contexts, and historical narratives. The program's multidisciplinary approach, drawing on fields like public health and sociology, often examines global health disparities and the international dimensions of drug production, trafficking, and consumption. The University at Buffalo's diverse international student and faculty population further enriches the learning environment by bringing varied global experiences and viewpoints to discussions on drug-related challenges and solutions.
Location
Buffalo, New York
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 28210
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 70% or above in their bachelor's degree.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 or 7.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 90 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 61 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 120.
The University at Buffalo (UB) offers a variety of scholarships and financial aid opportunities specifically aimed at supporting international students who wish to pursue their studies in the United States. These scholarships are designed to reward academic excellence, leadership, and community involvement, helping to make education more affordable for talented students worldwide.
Merit-Based Scholarships: UB provides competitive merit scholarships to outstanding international undergraduate and graduate students. Awards such as the International Student Academic Excellence Scholarship recognize high-achieving students based on their academic records, standardized test scores, and extracurricular involvement.
Graduate Fellowships and Assistantships: Graduate international students can apply for teaching assistantships, research assistantships, and fellowships which offer tuition remission and stipends. These opportunities allow students to gain valuable teaching and research experience while offsetting the cost of their education.
Departmental Scholarships: Many academic departments at UB offer scholarships tailored to students in specific programs or fields of study. These awards may consider academic merit, research interests, or financial need.
External Scholarships: UB encourages international students to explore external scholarship options from private organizations, governments, and international foundations that support study in the U.S. The university’s International Student Services office provides guidance on identifying and applying for such funding sources.
A Master of Arts (M.A.) in Drugs, Health and Society from the State University of New York at Buffalo (UB) is a distinctive and highly interdisciplinary program that delves into the complex scientific, therapeutic, social, and political dimensions of drugs and addiction. This unique degree equips graduates with a holistic and critical understanding of these multifaceted issues, preparing them to address challenges in diverse sectors. By drawing expertise from various departments, including social sciences, humanities, public health, medicine, and law, the program offers a comprehensive perspective that is increasingly vital in a world grappling with drug-related crises and evolving policies.
Addiction Counselor / Substance Abuse Counselor (with additional certification): Graduates can work directly with individuals struggling with addiction in rehabilitation centers, outpatient clinics, and community health organizations. While the M.A. provides a strong theoretical foundation, specific state licensure or certification is often required for direct counseling roles.
Drug Policy Analyst / Advocate: These professionals work for government agencies, non-profit organizations, and advocacy groups to research, analyze, and shape drug policies at local, national, or international levels. They use their understanding of social, political, and health factors to advocate for evidence-based and equitable approaches to drug regulation, harm reduction, and treatment.
Public Health Specialist (Substance Use Prevention/Intervention): Graduates can work in public health departments, community organizations, or healthcare systems to design, implement, and evaluate prevention and intervention programs related to substance use. Their role involves community outreach, education, and promoting healthier behaviors.
Research Coordinator / Assistant (Addiction/Health Research): With a strong foundation in both scientific and social aspects of drugs, graduates can contribute to research projects in academic institutions, pharmaceutical companies, or government research bodies. They assist with data collection, analysis, literature reviews, and report writing for studies on addiction, treatment efficacy, or policy impact.
Program Manager (Addiction Services): Graduates can manage and oversee programs within addiction treatment centers, recovery support services, or public health initiatives. This involves administrative duties, staff supervision, budget management, and ensuring program effectiveness and compliance.
Community Health Educator: These professionals develop and deliver educational programs to various communities about the risks and impacts of drug use, prevention strategies, and available health resources. They work in schools, community centers, and non-profit organizations to raise awareness and promote public health.
Harm Reduction Specialist: Focusing on strategies that reduce the negative consequences of drug use, graduates can work for harm reduction organizations, public health agencies, or needle exchange programs. They provide support, education, and resources to reduce risks associated with drug use without necessarily requiring abstinence.
Journalist / Science Communicator (Drugs & Health): Graduates with strong analytical and communication skills can pursue careers in journalism or science communication, focusing on complex topics related to drugs, addiction, and public health. They translate research and policy into accessible information for the general public or specialized audiences.
Human Resources Professional (Employee Assistance Programs): In corporate or organizational settings, graduates can contribute to Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) by understanding the impact of substance use on the workplace and connecting employees with appropriate resources and support.
Criminal Justice / Corrections Specialist: With an understanding of drug policy and its intersection with the criminal justice system, graduates can work in correctional facilities, probation, or parole. They may help develop and implement drug rehabilitation programs for incarcerated individuals or those re-entering society.
