How important is foreign language for global health?

[blondetennis03]

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Hi I'm currently an anthropology major interested in getting my masters degree in public health with a concentration in global health. My school really has absolutely no information or assistance on anything public health related and I've had a lot of trouble finding some concrete advice so anything is appreciated!

Currently an anthro major and I know this is an acceptable major to pursue public health but I feel like I need something extra. I'm already fairly proficient in Spanish so how beneficial would it be for me to start taking another language (say French)? Or maybe should I spend that time pursuing some sort of minor (like political science)?

Also I'm signed up for a course next semester in epidemiology. If I'm more interseted in global health is this extra class a waste of time?

Thanks for all your help and thoughts!

 

[2013MPH2013]

Hi,
I think the Epi course is probably more beneficial in the long run especially since you are proficient in Spanish. You could also contact the admissions departments of some of the schools you are interested in to see what they have to say.
Good luck!

 

[Seci]

Tulane has a language proficiency requirement for graduation but speaking with the admin there it sounds like intermediate mid (Peace Corps rating) is about all you need. Generally though for global health I would say to be conversant with a couple languages but don't try to master any until you know which language/dialect you'll be working with. If you're interested in pursuing additional languages I'd stick to the UN six unless you have a particular country in mind.

Also why pursue global health? My understanding is that most anthropology majors tend to lean towards behavioral science and education.

 

[2013MPH2013]

Generally though for global health I would say to be conversant with a couple languages but don't try to master any until you know which language/dialect you'll be working with. QUOTE]


It probably depends on the program. I was accepted into the Global Health programs or concentrations (depending on the school) at all of the schools I applied to with only mediocre language skills. I ranked myself on SOPHAS as intermediate and low (all my PC language training was oral 🙁 so I write like a five year old) but no one asked for test results or anything.

 

[deleted6669]

I'm also a former anthro major now pursuing graduate studies in global health. my spanish is ok(grew up in southern ca and took 6 yrs through high school and college and use basic spanish daily in the e.r. with patients).
the 2 programs I am looking at don't have a language requirement.
the 4 times I have been to Haiti we have had local translators.
that being said, a working knowledge of french would probably be helpful in a lot of places.

 

[cornflakegirl]

I would highly recommend taking language classes. There is rarely a requirement, but for a global health program or concentration, it will be helpful with admissions (at least one program director told me this specifically). But even if it has no impact there, it will be important for your career if you intend to work abroad at all (unless of course you are certain you want to focus only on Latin America).. I wish I had studied French as an undergrad; instead I have paid a lot of money to take language classes since then, and I have less time for them with work and they are not as effective anyway because they meet less often, etc. So if you have the chance to take them, language classes can only help you...

 

[blondetennis03]

Thanks so much for the opinions guys! I think I am going say no to getting an unrelated minor and go for just a little french to get some background. I really appreciate your comments and thoughts!