Anthropology is the study of humans in their cultural and natural environments. Cultural, physical — or biological anthropologist jobs are available, as are archeological and linguistic anthropologist jobs. An anthropologist’s job usually necessitates a master’s or doctorate degree. An additional source of anthropologist jobs is higher education. Anthropology degrees, especially when combined with other degrees, can provide a platform for careers outside of anthropology.
Cultural anthropologists, also referred to as sociocultural anthropologists, study living people and cultures. Cultural anthropologists are employed by the government, corporations, and international organizations. These anthropologists may conduct research into labor market trends and economic conditions. They study human behavior in the context of culture, history, and biology, and then apply what they’ve learned to modern business and government. To make assessments about the areas they study, cultural anthropologists evaluate data and use critical thinking skills.
Physical or biological anthropologists are interested in human evolution and the study of the human skeleton, also known as osteology. They study the effects of nutrition and other lifestyle factors on humans, and their understanding of anatomy and physiology is essential to their work. A physical anthropologist’s focus could be on ancient or modern humans. World health organizations, governments, and other organizations, such as law enforcement, may hire these anthropologists. By identifying human remains and possible causes of death, forensic anthropologists assist law enforcement agencies in solving crimes.
Archeologists are anthropologists who specialize in studying ancient civilizations through artifacts, ruins, and other human remains. These anthropologists can work at archeological sites unearthing artifacts or in a research lab analyzing artifacts. Their research allows them to look into cultures and develop theories about how ancient civilizations lived and interacted with one another.
Linguistic anthropologists study the evolution of human language. They look at language development in terms of how geography, economics, and social interaction influence it. Linguistic anthropologists look into the impact of language on human perception and the evolution of dialects.
An additional source of anthropologist jobs is higher education. Depending on their background and training, these anthropologists may teach in anthropology, social science, or psychology departments. For these jobs, a doctorate degree is frequently required.
Alternative career paths can be created by combining anthropology degrees with other degrees. Someone with a degree in both anthropology and business, for example, can use anthropology’s cultural understanding to better understand international marketing or trade development. Language and anthropology are complementary fields of study. Understanding and communication are aided by having a good understanding of human cultures.