Best Online Anthropology Programs 2022

Anthropology involves the study of humans and society. It covers human evolution, culture, politics, religion, and social transformation. A bachelor’s in anthropology can be a great degree for any learner who wants to take on the ambitious study of humanity itself.

A bachelor’s in anthropology traditionally lasts four years, and this degree prepares students for careers in anthropology, archeology, museum studies, and public sector or community work. Average tuition costs for a four-year degree can range from $10,560 per year for public schools to $37,650 annually for private schools, according to the College Board.

Online programs give students greater flexibility and independence. Distance learners can enroll in part-time programs, for instance, or graduate more quickly with accelerated programs.

If you’re interested in earning an online bachelor’s in anthropology, read about the best programs in this guide. Plus, learn about the career outlook and salary potential for graduates with this degree.

Like many other bachelor’s degrees, online bachelor’s in anthropology programs typically require 120 credits. For traditional, on-campus students, these degrees usually take about four years to complete.

However, online bachelor’s degrees may require more or less time depending on the program format. Distance learners can shave a semester or year off through an accelerated degree, but part-time students may need an extra year or two before they can graduate.

Anthropology can be broken down into three general areas: sociocultural anthropology, biological anthropology, and archeology. Some anthropology programs specialize in one specific area, while others allow students to choose their concentration. Some schools may offer linguistic anthropology as well.

Anthropology programs teach students how to think critically about human societies and cultures around the world. Courses usually demand plenty of reading and writing. Learners also practice quantitative and qualitative methodologies so they can carry out research projects during their studies. Online students may need to complete some in-person, on-location requirements depending on the program.

Those who specialize in archeology may participate in excavation fieldwork, and individuals interested in museum studies may visit exhibitions in their local area. Some students may also take advantage of internships.

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Students typically take this course early on, as it introduces them to the fundamental theories within the discipline of anthropology. The course covers various anthropological theories as they have evolved since the 1800s.

Another fundamental course in anthropology majors’ curricula, this course explores ethnography, or the systematic study of individual cultures. Students learn about this area of social science research through both quantitative and qualitative methods.

Many anthropology programs require students to engage in anthropological fieldwork, during which learners carry out their own research project. Students typically propose their own fieldwork projects based on their interests and carry them out under faculty supervision.

This course examines the evolution of cultures across the world and also considers social frameworks in different cultures. Students also learn about the economic and political aspects of international cultures.

Students who wish to work in the museum industry may benefit from this course, which covers topics like museum preservation, research, and education. This course also goes over the ethical considerations that come with curating and managing museums. Students often visit museums as part of this course.

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When anthropology majors graduate with their bachelor’s degrees, they enter a relatively small but growingfield. About 8,500 professionals worked as anthropologists and archeologists in 2020, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

Although anthropology might not be the most popular major or field, the BLS projects the profession could add about 600 positions from 2020 to 2030, which translates to a 7% growth rate. Plus, anthropologists and archeologists earned a median annual salary of $66,130 in 2020.

That said, anthropology majors don’t necessarily need to go into the anthropology field. This degree equips students with critical thinking and writing skills in addition to expertise in human social and cultural structures. As such, graduates may find jobs at museums or in the public or nonprofit sectors.

Professional anthropologists study human societies and cultures around the world and throughout history. They often become experts in one specific area, and they may use methodologies like observation and interviews to inform their research. Although some anthropology positions require a master’s degree or Ph.D., candidates with undergraduate degrees can land jobs as research assistants

Median Annual Salary:$66,130

Some anthropology degrees allow students to specialize in archeology, or the field of excavating remains to study human history and prehistory. They examine and analyze human remains and artifacts from past cultures, often using excavation tools and geographic information systems. Archeologists sometimes need a postgraduate degree to find employment, although bachelor’s degree-holders may find jobs as field workers or lab technicians.

Median Annual Salary:$66,130

Museum technicians care for and preserve artifacts in collections and exhibitions. They display museum objects so that they remain protected and prepare these objects for transport. This job also serves as a stepping stone for individuals who eventually wish to earn a master’s degree or Ph.D. and become a museum curator or archivist.

Median Annual Salary:$52,140

These professionals must possess expert knowledge in how people approach health issues within a social framework. They identify community health needs and address cultural and other barriers to healthcare services through outreach programs. For anthropologists who study biological or physical anthropology, this job could prove a good fit.

Median Annual Salary:$48,140

Since anthropologists study human culture and social structures, they can use their expertise working for nonprofit organizations and government groups that support communities. Social and community service managers supervise these groups, carrying out administrative tasks. These professionals also exercise their writing skills by drawing up proposals for funding.

Median Annual Salary:$69,600

Since several anthropology and archeology positions require job applicants to hold master’s degrees or Ph.D.s, many students go on to apply to graduate school. Graduate learners can usually find a degree that fits their area of expertise, such as ancient Greek and Roman archeology, linguistic anthropology, or museum curation.

Earning an advanced degree can open up additional career options. Some anthropology majors go on to law school, using their critical thinking skills to become attorneys. Others might earn a Ph.D. in anthropology with the goal of becoming a postsecondary teacher. This position involves instructing anthropology at the college level, mentoring individual students, and carrying out and publishing original research.