Why This Matters
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11,387 GRADUATES IN 2019
More than 11,000 people graduated with a degree in anthropology in 2019. Although this was a slight decrease over previous years, job growth expectations in the field are still strong.
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8,000 MORE ANTHROPOLOGY JOBS BY 2029
As a growing number of businesses use anthropological research to analyze markets and understand consumer demand within specific groups, the employment of anthropologists is projected to grow 5% over the next decade.
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EARN $66,130 PER YEAR AS AN ANTHROPOLOGIST
The average annual wage for anthropologists was $66,130 in 2019. Those who work for the federal government tend to earn the highest wages, with a median annual wage of $79,270.
Our Research
This list focuses on undergraduate programs related to anthropology that offer a bachelor’s degree. Most bachelor’s degree programs award a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology or a Bachelor of Science in Anthropology. Our list also includes programs that award bachelor’s degrees in social sciences. We reviewed programs that are offered online and in blended formats.
To ensure the quality of the programs, most schools on our list have obtained regional accreditation. Several programs are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, which assesses colleges in the central United States based on factors like academic mission, ethics, teaching and learning, and resources.
- 58 hours to write this article
- 34 universities and colleges we assessed
- 62 education programs we compared
The Top 50 Online Bachelor’s in Anthropology Programs
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What You Should Know About This Degree
Most anthropologists qualify for positions with a master’s degree in anthropology. Graduates with a bachelor’s degree in anthropology often find work as field or laboratory technicians or research assistants. A bachelor’s degree in anthropology also serves as a foundation for students who are interested in pursuing careers in a variety of similar fields, such as international development, organizational psychology, museum curation, human resources, or market research.
Undergraduate programs typically offer either a Bachelor of Arts or a Bachelor of Science in anthropology. Some programs offer both. There are slightly different requirements for each degree. A Bachelor of Arts provides a broad overview of anthropology, focusing on the subject from a social sciences or humanities perspective. A Bachelor of Science typically emphasizes the more scientific side of anthropology.
Whichever path you choose, it’s important to look for an undergraduate program that has achieved accreditation by the Council on Higher Education Accreditation or the U.S. Department of Education, which give an institution and its graduates credibility with other institutions and employers.
The job outlook for those who earn this degree varies based on career path. The employment of anthropologists is projected to grow 5% over the next decade. The job market for similar occupations such as archivists, curators, and museum workers, is also strong.
There are no certifications or licenses required to be an anthropologist.
What’s Next?
Here are some questions to ask when researching online bachelor’s in anthropology programs:
- Am I eligible for this program? Bachelor’s degree programs typically require applicants to have a high school diploma or equivalency to be considered for enrollment. In addition, some colleges and universities have minimum GPA requirements and ask candidates to submit standardized test scores. Before applying, check the program’s admissions requirements to confirm that you meet their qualifications.
- How long does it take to complete this online degree? The amount of time it takes to complete a bachelor’s program in anthropology depends on various factors. However, full-time students usually earn a bachelor’s degree in four years.
As you research programs, keep track of what application materials you must submit for each program. You should also make note of application deadlines. You can usually find information about the application process for each college or university online or by contacting the admissions department.
It is also important to consider how you will finance your degree. The price for undergraduate tuition can vary widely from college to college. Funding opportunities are usually available, such as scholarships, loans, and grants. Some employers also offer educational assistance programs.