Anthropology is the sole discipline that studies both individuals and humankind as a whole - biologically and culturally, in all places, and at all times (past and present). The anthropology student learns to allow for differences in cultures. This is helpful in health careers, social services, business, and urban planning, among others. The ethnic composition of our population is becoming increasingly diverse, and anyone dealing with the public needs some understanding of their languages and cultures.
Skills gained in this program include:
Demonstrating global awareness and understanding other cultures
Providing insight into social problems by supplying information as to how problems, such as aging or bereavement, are addressed in our cultures
Conducting research: posing questions, conducting field work, obtaining evidence, analyzing sources, assessing information, constructing an argument
Using statistics and computer science to analyze data
Adapting approaches used in public relations, marketing, or politics to different population groups
Working cooperatively with others, adapting to varied conditions
Using scientific equipment and instruments
Career Choices
Anthropologist
Archaeologist
Archivist
Art conservator
Banker
Biographer
Business entrepreneur or administrator
Community recreation development specialist
Cultural resource management specialist
Cultural Heritage manager
Curator
Dentist
Economist
Educator
Genealogist
Health administrator
Historian
Lawyer
Librarian
Museologist
Nurse
Paleontologist
Peace Corps volunteer
Physician
Political scientist
Public advocate
Research associate
Social worker
Technical writer
Tourist manager
and many, many more!
Work settings include, but are not limited to:
Government, education, research, banking, business, human resources, public relations, marketing research, human services, government agencies, international intergovernmental organizations, non-profit corporations, museums, the tourism and cultural heritage industries, the media industry.
Career Hints
To work in any branch of anthropology, an advanced degree is needed, usually a PhD. Most anthropologists work for universities and colleges; some for museums or government. There are only a few thousand anthropologists in the entire country and openings are scarce. The BA degree in anthropology, however, has practical applications. The anthropology student learns to develop skills for understanding differences in cultures. This is helpful in health careers, social services, business, and urban planning, among others.
Salary Information
Salaries range greatly from one occupation, position, and work setting to another.