What to Do with an Anthropology Degree
A major in anthropology may confuse some people, but it can actually be one of the most intellectually-rewarding courses that you can take in college. Anthropology provides you with a very comprehensive and holistic knowledge of human behavior and cultural differences. If you’re wondering what you can do with your anthropology degree, here are some tips to help you choose a career without veering away from your chosen field of study.
Branches of Anthropology
Anthropology is the holistic study of human culture and behavior over time and space. It is an interdisciplinary study, which means that many social scientists rely on anthropological concepts and studies to study human behavior and improve the lives of people. Anthropology has four distinct disciplines within itself:
Physical anthroplogy is the branch of anthropology that deals with the biological changes of the human species over time. Physical anthropology is a key component of forensics.
Cultural anthropology deals with kinship, human organizations, laws, and other aspects of human behavior over different places at different points in history. Cultural anthropology is especially valuable for its sub-disciplines, which include cultural studies (media studies), economic anthropology, studies on religion, and political anthropology.
Archaeology is the study of cultural artefacts. Archaeologists dig up and discover the remains of previous cultures and populations, and piece together their history.
Linguistics is the systematic and holistic study of language. People specializing in anthropological linguistics study the relationships and differences of languages and dialects used all over the world.
The Academe
The real value of anthropology is found when it is put into practice in the academe. Most career anthropologists pursue a career in teaching, although there are other venues in the university that you can use if you do not intend to pursue lectures:
Research. Anthropologists work closely with other social scientists to develop explanations and theories about society to make important policies. Anthropologists are often consulted or hired by government agencies to develop sound ideas
Academic writing. Anthropologists may also develop their own theories, which they can publish through monographs, research papers, or even textbooks.
Corporate Environments
A knowledge of anthropology is a very important - and often overlooked - qualification in human resources. Multinational companies and the growth of outsourcing makes it vital for companies to understand other cultures and recognize cultural differences among customers, clients, and employees. Anthropologists often make successful careers in administrative posts in a company, or through consultancy work.
Advanced Study
Whether you’re in the academe or the private sector, advanced study is very important if you want to develop your anthropological knowledge and specializations further. Many anthropology graduates pursue post-graduate work in their chosen field, and add to their qualifications and expertise. Many leading universities all over the world provide grants, scholarships, and other post-graduate programs to allow students to specialize in their chosen field of study.
Anthropology may seem vague to some, but it has many important applications in many fields of employment. With these tips, you can succeed in the carreer of your choice, thanks to your degree in anthropology.