What can I do with a degree in Anthropology?
An undergraduate degree in Anthropology can prepare you for a number of exciting career paths. While anthropologists with PhDs can be employed in academic/university settings, many other non-academic opportunities are available in today’s world for graduates with a Bachelor’s degree in Anthropology – even though these job titles may not include the word “anthropologist.” Transferable skills gained as part of an Anthropology degree include critical thinking, research and analytical training, written and oral communication, cultural sensitivity and awareness, and ethical perspectives.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, overall job growth is projected to increase by 8% per year from 2023 until 2033, double the national average growth rate of 4% for all occupations. A 2025 survey revealed that anthropologists in the United States earned a median salary of $64,910 per year in 2024.
Careers at a glance…
- Archaeology: Cultural resource management (CRM), National Park Service, FEMA, museums, universities, government agencies
- Biological Anthropology: Forensic laboratories, coroner’s offices, applied anthropometry, zoos, museums, UX research, publishing/editing
- Cultural Anthropology: Corporations, education, non-profit and advocacy groups, archival work, policy or market research, human resources, government agencies
Useful Career Links:
American Anthropological Association
American Association of Biological Anthropologists
Why the World Needs Anthropologists
Want to learn more? If you search “anthropology” on job search websites such as Indeed, USAJobs, or LinkedIn, you can see the diversity of job ads that list anthropology as a preferred degree. Other career resources include the Anthropology Careers & Employment job board and the Anthropology Career Readiness Network.