Is an Anthropology Degree Worth Taking?

When selecting a university degree, students typically seek a field that aligns with their personal interests, career goals, and future ambitions. Anthropology is the study of human societies, cultures, and their evolution. It is a discipline that fosters a deep curiosity about human existence in all its forms. However, a common question many prospective students have is whether an anthropology degree is worth pursuing. The answer varies depending on your passions, career goals, and the opportunities you’re open to. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of an anthropology degree and help you determine if it’s the right choice for you.

What do students study in an Anthropology degree program?

The study of Anthropology spans four main subfields – Biological/Physical Anthropology, Cultural Anthropology, Archaeology and Linguistic Anthropology. An Anthropology degree combines elements of the natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of humanity.

Why should you study an Anthropology degree?

Anthropology also equips students with a range of transferable skills. The degree fosters critical thinking and sharpens analytical abilities, both of which are crucial for problem-solving. Anthropology students gain hands-on experience in qualitative and quantitative research methods, learning to conduct interviews, perform ethnographic studies, and analyze complex data. Additionally, students develop the ability to communicate their findings effectively, whether in written reports or presentations.

Anthropology opens doors to a range of career opportunities in diverse sectors. For example, anthropology methods are frequently used in User Experience (UX) research to improve product design by understanding user behavior. In public health, anthropologists work to address health disparities and promote cultural competency. Graduates can also find roles in non-profit organizations advocating for human rights and social justice, or in corporate settings, helping with diversity and inclusion initiatives and market research. Additionally, positions in museums and cultural heritage organizations offer the chance to preserve artifacts and educate the public about cultural history.

Challenges of studying Anthropology

One of the main challenges of studying anthropology is the lack of a clear career path upon graduation. Unlike fields such as engineering or nursing, where the route to employment is more direct, anthropology does not always lead to a specific job title. Graduates often need to pursue additional qualifications, certifications, or experience to build a career in their field. This means that students must be prepared to explore various options or continue their education to specialize in a specific area.

For those interested in academia, the job market can be particularly tough. Securing a tenure-track position is highly competitive, and earning a Ph.D. in anthropology is a long, demanding process that requires significant perseverance. The academic path is not easy, and many students may struggle with the challenges that come with such a pursuit.

Another obstacle that anthropology students face is the way the degree is sometimes perceived. It is often seen as a niche or impractical field, which can make it difficult for graduates to explain the value of their skills to potential employers. While anthropology provides valuable insights into human behavior, culture, and society, students may need to work harder to demonstrate how these skills can be applied in a wide range of careers.

Building a career in anthropology involves more than just completing coursework—it requires initiative, adaptability, and the ability to make connections across various fields.

How to enhance the value of Anthropology

To maximize the value of an Anthropology degree, consider combining it with other fields to broaden your career prospects. Pairing anthropology with areas like data science, public health, or business can open up a range of opportunities.

• Anthropology + Data Science = UX Researcher
• Anthropology + Public Health = Global Health Specialist
• Anthropology + Business = Market Analyst or Diversity Consultant

In addition to academic knowledge, gaining practical experience is crucial. Internships, volunteer work, and field studies allow students to apply their learning to real-world challenges, making it easier to transition into a career. Look for opportunities in museums, non-profits, or corporate environments to gain hands-on experience. Actively networking is also key to advancing in the field. Building professional connections can lead to mentorships and job opportunities, so attending conferences, joining anthropology associations, and engaging with alumni networks can be valuable.

Finally, pursuing graduate studies, such as a master’s or Ph.D., is an important consideration for those who wish to specialize in a particular subfield or advance their career. For example, roles in forensic anthropology often require advanced education, making graduate studies an important step for those pursuing this path.

Universities offering Anthropology degree

Harvard University
A.B. in Anthropology
SAT requirement: 1500–1580 (or ACT: 34–36)

Stanford University
B.A. in Anthropology
SAT requirement: 1500–1570 (or ACT: 34–35)

University of Chicago
B.A. in Anthropology
SAT requirement: 1510–1560 (or ACT: 34–35)

Yale University
B.A. in Anthropology
SAT requirement: 1500–1580 (or ACT: 34–36)

University of California, Berkeley
B.A. in Anthropology
SAT: 1350–1540 (or ACT: 30–34)

New York University (NYU)
B.A. in Anthropology
SAT: 1450–1550 (or ACT: 32–35)

University of Cambridge
B.A. in Archaeology and Anthropology
A-Levels: A*AA (or equivalent, such as AP exams with scores of 5).

University of Oxford
B.A. in Archaeology and Anthropology
A-Levels: AAA (or equivalent)

London School of Economics (LSE)
B.Sc. in Social Anthropology
A-Levels: A*AA (or equivalent)

University College London (UCL)
B.A. in Anthropology / B.Sc. in Anthropology
A-Levels: A*AA or AAA depending on the program

The value of an anthropology degree depends on what you’re looking for in your education and future career. If you’re passionate about studying human behavior and tackling societal issues, anthropology can be a fulfilling choice. It’s ideal for those who enjoy crossing disciplinary boundaries and are open to less conventional career paths. With a willingness to develop additional skills and gain practical experience, an anthropology degree can serve as a solid stepping stone to a variety of careers.

That said, this degree isn’t for everyone. If you’re seeking a program with a clear and direct route to a specific job, anthropology may not meet your needs. Likewise, if research, writing, and analysis don’t appeal to you, the coursework and career options might feel less relevant. Success in this field often requires flexibility and a proactive approach to exploring different industries. For those who prefer a more structured or specialized path, a different degree might be a better fit.