What Can You Do With A Degree In Anthropology?

Anthropology is a field of study that encompasses a range of disciplines and offers a unique perspective on the development of humans, their societies, and cultures.

It is the study of humans and their societies in the past and present and can be studied from multiple angles.

A degree in anthropology is valuable and provides graduates with a range of career options.

This article will explore the various career options available to those with an anthropology degree, and how they can use their knowledge to benefit society.

It will also discuss the skills and knowledge acquired through a degree in anthropology that can be applied in different contexts.

Museum Curator

The Current Section examines the role of a Museum Curator within the field of Anthropology.

A Museum Curator is a professional who is responsible for the acquisition, care, maintenance, and display of museum collections. They are also responsible for developing exhibitions that accurately represent the cultural heritage of the museum.

Museum Curators must have a strong knowledge of anthropology, and be able to interpret the cultural meaning of artifacts and collections. They must also be able to research and present information in an engaging and accurate way.

Museum Curators must work closely with scholars and museum staff to ensure that museum collections reflect the cultural heritage of the museum and its visitors. They are also responsible for preserving museum collections and ensuring that they remain in good condition.

Museum Curators must be well-versed in the history and culture of the museum and its collections, and be able to develop exhibitions that accurately represent the cultural representation of the museum. They must also have the ability to ensure the preservation of museum artifacts and collections.

Archaeologist

Archaeology, an area of Anthropology, involves the study of past human societies and cultures through their material remains. It includes a variety of activities such as:

Urban Archaeology:
Documenting and dating archaeological sites.
Collecting and analyzing artifacts.
Excavating and restoring ruins.
Investigating ancient cultures.
Primitive Tools:
Uncovering buried tools.
Analyzing primitive tools.
Determining the purpose of the tools.
Investigating how the tools were made.

Archaeology is an engaging field of study and requires a great deal of creativity and attention to detail. It is a field that has a subconscious desire for serving others, as archaeologists help to uncover the truth about past civilizations and cultures.

Archaeologists typically use a range of data sources and research methods, such as laboratory analysis, surveys, and excavations, to discover and document archaeological sites. Field research, laboratory analysis, and careful record keeping are essential to the success of an archaeological project.

As an archaeologist, one must have a passion for exploring the past and the patience to meticulously uncover and analyze artifacts.

Cultural Resource Management

Cultural Resource Management, a sub-field of Archaeology, enables a more comprehensive understanding of past societies and cultures through the protection, preservation, and interpretation of their material remains.

This field necessitates a holistic approach to the management of archaeological sites, incorporating ethical considerations and an understanding of cultural dynamics. It involves the identification and evaluation of archaeological sites, the development of strategies for their preservation, and the communication of the results of archaeological investigations to the wider public.

Cultural Resource Management professionals may work in the public or private sector, providing critical advice and services to individuals and organizations.

The aim of Cultural Resource Management is to create a balance between the interests of conservation and development, ensuring that archaeological resources are preserved for future generations. This is achieved through the development of management plans based on the available evidence and an understanding of the archaeological context.

Cultural Resource Management professionals must also ensure that their work is undertaken in a manner that respects the interests of the local community and the cultural significance of the site.

A degree in Anthropology equips graduates with the skills and knowledge necessary to work in this field, providing them with a valuable and fulfilling career.

Anthropological Linguist

Anthropological Linguists are experts in the field of language and culture, who strive to understand how language and culture shape and influence one another. They focus on the learning and teaching of language, as well as the cultural exchange that occurs as a result.

An Anthropological Linguist is able to develop a deep understanding of the language being studied, as well as the culture in which it is used. This knowledge can be used to develop new language-learning methods and to create meaningful cultural exchanges between people from different backgrounds.

Additionally, Anthropological Linguists are often employed to provide language-learning assistance to immigrants and refugees, and to document endangered languages and cultures. Anthropological Linguists are thus invaluable in promoting cross-cultural understanding and intercultural dialogue.

Non-profit work

Working in the non-profit sector is a valuable way to serve the community, with opportunities to make a tangible difference in the lives of those in need. Anthropologists can use their expertise in understanding cultures, economies, and global dynamics to help those in need.

Through community outreach and international aid, anthropologists can help alleviate poverty, promote education, and improve access to basic services. Anthropologists are well-positioned to help non-profit organizations in the areas of research and development, fundraising, and grant writing.

They can also use their skills to design and implement programs that address social issues and develop solutions to poverty, inequality, and environmental degradation. Anthropologists may also be involved in advocacy and policy-making, helping to influence the decisions of governments and international institutions.

With a degree in anthropology, there are many opportunities for meaningful and impactful work in the non-profit sector.

Forensic Anthropology

Forensics anthropology is a specialised field of study within the field of anthropology. It uses the knowledge and techniques of physical anthropology, archaeology, and other disciplines to aid in criminal investigations.

Forensic anthropologists are employed in a variety of settings, including crime scenes, medical examiner’s offices, and other forensic science laboratories. They are trained to analyse human skeletal remains, particularly in cases where the deceased identity is unknown, or when the remains have been subjected to extreme trauma or decomposition.

They are also able to provide evidence in court and assist in determining the cause of death. In addition, forensic anthropologists can provide information about the time since death, the age and sex of the deceased, and any other relevant information which may be useful in criminal cases.

Human Resources

Human resources is a field of study that focuses on managing and optimising the use of personnel within an organisation.

Anthropologists with a degree in anthropology can use their knowledge to bring an ethical and diverse approach to the field. They can use their knowledge of cultural differences to create diversity initiatives and ethical hiring procedures, as well as gain insights into the dynamics of the workplace.

Anthropologists are also able to provide research on different cultures and their effect on the organisation and its staff. This research can be used to create policies and initiatives that promote equality and understanding of different cultures, which can help to create a more inclusive and harmonious workplace.

Furthermore, anthropologists can use their skills in communication and problem-solving to help organisations manage difficult situations and identify areas where improvement is needed. By understanding the nuances of human behaviour, anthropologists can help organisations ensure that their employees are given the respect, recognition and support they deserve.

Public Policy

Public policy is an area of study that focuses on the principles and regulations governing the actions of governments and other public organisations, and their effects on society.

With a degree in anthropology, one can gain a comprehensive understanding of the complexities of public policy and its effects on the community. This knowledge can be utilised in a variety of ways, such as:

Developing strategies for political lobbying.
Creating action plans to address international relations.
Investigating the impact of public policy on different cultures.
Analyzing the effectiveness of existing laws and policy initiatives.

By gaining an in-depth knowledge of public policy, those with a degree in anthropology can make a significant contribution to the development of policy initiatives, both in their own country and abroad.

Furthermore, this knowledge can be used to inform decision-making and generate creative solutions to the challenges faced by public organisations.

Education

Education is a field of study that investigates the structure, methods, and outcomes of teaching and learning in formal and informal settings. Anthropologists can contribute to this field by exploring the ways in which people learn and how their knowledge is acquired, stored and shared. By looking at the ways in which people learn and interact in educational settings, anthropologists can help to inform educational policies and practices.

Anthropologists can also contribute to the field of education through their research on media literacy. Media literacy involves an understanding of how people consume and create media, and how it influences their behaviour and beliefs. By conducting scientific research on media literacy, anthropologists can provide insights into how people interact with different media and how it can shape their experiences in educational settings. Additionally, anthropologists can provide valuable perspectives on how different cultures learn and interact with each other in educational contexts.

Media Literacy	Scientific Research
Understand how people consume and create media	Investigate the ways in which people learn
Explore how media influences behaviour and beliefs	Provide insights into how people interact with different media
Examine how media shapes educational experiences	Offer perspectives on how different cultures learn and interact in educational settings
Analyse how media shapes beliefs and values	Contribute to educational policies and practices
Investigate how media affects learning	Identify the ways in which knowledge is acquired, stored and shared

Medical Anthropology

Medical Anthropology is a sub-discipline of Anthropology which examines the interplay between culture, society and health. It is primarily concerned with exploring how beliefs, practices and social structures affect health and well-being, particularly in terms of gender roles and other areas of social inequality.

This field of study also applies research to the development of strategies for improving health care and public health services. Applied research in Medical Anthropology has been used to develop culturally appropriate health interventions, as well as to better understand how social factors can shape health outcomes.

It has been employed to inform policy decisions related to health, and to inform the design of health services. It is also used to identify and understand the social determinants of health, and to develop interventions that address the underlying causes of health disparities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the job outlook for someone with an anthropology degree?

The job outlook for those who have an anthropology degree is promising. Those who have this degree can take advantage of the cultural diversity and international research opportunities that are available.

Many employers are seeking candidates with anthropology degrees who can provide insight into different cultures and research methods. Anthropology majors can work in a variety of industries, such as international relations, human resources, and marketing.

With the ever-changing cultural landscape, anthropologists will be in high demand to help organisations understand and adapt to different societies.

How much can I expect to earn with a degree in anthropology?

Those with a degree in anthropology have a variety of career paths available to them, and the salary potential for these roles can vary greatly.

According to the most recent data, the median salary for those with an anthropology degree is around £58,000 per year.

However, depending on the specific career path chosen, salaries can range from the low £40,000s to upwards of £100,000 per year.

Additionally, the average salary for those in the field increases with experience and education, so those with more experience and education can expect to earn more than the median salary.

What are the typical entry-level qualifications for a career in anthropology?

Entry-level qualifications for an anthropology career typically include a Bachelor’s degree in Anthropology, or a related field.

Additionally, knowledge and understanding of research methods, cultural sensitivity, and experience in fieldwork or lab work are often desired.

Potential career paths within the industry include positions such as researcher, curator, museum technician, and professor.

Additionally, understanding of current industry trends and keeping up to date with the latest theories and techniques is essential for success in an anthropology career.

Are there any specialisations within anthropology?

Anthropology is a field of study that covers a wide variety of topics related to cultural diversity and human behavior. Within anthropology, there are various specializations, including physical anthropology, archaeology, linguistic anthropology, cultural anthropology, and applied anthropology.

Physical anthropology focuses on human evolution and biological variation, while archaeology studies the material remains of past cultures. Linguistic anthropology investigates how language shapes cultural practices, while cultural anthropology examines how people interact with and interpret the world around them. Finally, applied anthropology emphasizes the practical application of anthropological knowledge to real-world problems.

Together, these specializations offer a detailed and comprehensive look at the complexities of human behavior and cultural diversity.

Is there a demand for anthropology graduates in the current job market?

With the current job market, there is a definite demand for anthropology graduates.

Exploring alternatives, such as using their degree in more diverse fields, can be beneficial to those seeking employment.

Career advice can be valuable in helping anthropology graduates to identify how their degree can be used in different roles and how to best market themselves to employers.

Furthermore, creativity and an organised approach in showcasing their skillset can be advantageous in utilising their degree to its fullest potential.

Conclusion

The opportunities for those with a degree in anthropology are vast. From museum curators and archaeologists to public policy makers and educators, there is something for every type of person.

Those with an anthropology degree can take advantage of a range of career options, from working in a non-profit setting to human resources or medical anthropology. With the ability to analyse and understand the human condition, anthropology graduates can make a positive contribution to the world.

No matter the chosen field, those with an anthropology degree have the skills and knowledge to make a difference. They are capable of forming an understanding of the past and present, and can use this insight to shape a better future.

With a degree in anthropology, the potential to make an impact is significant.