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what different job occupations would I be able to get if I were to have a bachelors in Anthropology?

I’m trying to broaden my options but always let down by peoples answers of it’s a lousy major or just careers with a masters/phd and not much as entry level jobs. I’m way into my major to opt out now as I’m a lower junior in college rn.

edit: thank you for the responses!

+25 Karma if successful
From: You
To: Friend
Subject: Career question for you

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James Constantine’s Answer

Dear Fatik,

Here's a list of potential entry-level jobs you can explore with a Bachelor's degree in Anthropology:

1. Research Assistant: This role allows you to assist senior researchers in academic institutions, museums, or research organizations. Your tasks may include conducting studies, gathering data, and analyzing results.

2. Museum Curator/Technician: You can utilize your degree by working in museums or cultural institutions. Your responsibilities could include managing collections, organizing exhibitions, and researching artifacts and cultural objects.

3. Cultural Resource Manager: In this role, you'll work with government agencies, consulting firms, or non-profit organizations. You'll evaluate the impact of development projects on cultural resources and heritage sites.

4. Nonprofit Program Coordinator: Nonprofit organizations often need anthropology graduates to coordinate programs related to community development, social justice, or cultural preservation.

5. Human Resources Specialist: Your understanding of human behavior and culture can be useful in HR departments. You might assist with recruitment, training, and diversity initiatives.

6. Market Research Analyst: Your anthropology degree can give you a unique insight into consumer behavior and cultural trends. This knowledge is useful for roles in market research and analysis.

7. Community Outreach Coordinator: You could work for government agencies or community-based organizations, developing and implementing programs that address social issues and promote cultural awareness.

8. Public Relations Specialist: Your strong communication skills and cultural sensitivity can be beneficial in public relations roles. In these roles, you'll manage communication between organizations and the public.

9. Social Services Case Manager: Your focus on understanding diverse populations and their needs can lead you to a role as a case manager. You'll help individuals access social services and support systems.

10. Educator/Teacher: You could become a teacher at the elementary or secondary level. You'll incorporate anthropological perspectives into your curriculum.

While some roles may need additional training or certifications, your Bachelor's degree in Anthropology gives you critical thinking skills, cultural awareness, and research abilities that can be applied in various fields.

Here are the top 3 authoritative sources I used:

1. American Anthropological Association (AAA): The AAA is the largest organization for those interested in anthropology. Their website offers valuable insights into career options for anthropology graduates.

2. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): The BLS provides detailed information on various occupations, including job outlooks, salaries, and educational requirements.

3. National Association for the Practice of Anthropology (NAPA): NAPA promotes the practice of anthropology outside academia. They offer resources on applied anthropology careers and job opportunities for anthropologists beyond traditional academic settings.

God Bless You,
James C.
Thank you comment icon Thank you, James Constantine for the advice. Fatik
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William’s Answer

As a degree holder in Anthropology, you can work as any of these:
Social worker.
Development worker.
Paleontologist.
Policy officer.
Museum curator.
Writer.
International racial, ethnic and language aid worker.
Diversity, equality and inclusion officer.
Public relations officer.
Teacher.
School methron/ pethron.
Social and cultural analyst.
Thank you comment icon Thank you for the advice. Fatik
Thank you comment icon Be aware that to work in some of the fields that William mentions, you will likely need further education or certification. For example, a social worker needs a Master of Social Work. Michele Marques
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Henrien’s Answer

Think about what area of anthropology who like. For me I choose cultural. I study the affects of the American diet on first generation immigrants from Asia. My of study is the Pacific Rim-China, Japan, Korea and the Philippines. I look at longevity and anti-aging and how it relates to food.

You can have a focus as an anthropologist. Maybe you want to study the culture of firemen. This would be considered a sub-culture of American culture.

I teach film studies and cultural literacy to immigrants I use film as a backdrop to understanding American culture. Look at what you are passionate about first. You still have time.

Once you know what area you like than look at what types of job you can apply to. Government jobs want to know about different demographic or they want to examine an area and its local history like a Native American group. Pick something you can live with and not get bored.

Have fun. Culture is a beautiful and wonderful thing to study.
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Martha’s Answer

Hi Fatik - don't be discouraged. James and William gave you lots of good ideas and there are more out there. To reiterate / add:

- This major develops critical reading, research, analytical and writing skills, which are applicable to many jobs. You may need to explain that to some potential employers, but that is okay.

- James mentioned the American Anthropological Association (AAA) - I put the link below because they have other references there. I also put links to articles from Indeed.com and The Muse with more information about potential jobs (James and William hit most, if not all, of them)

- Don't overlook resources close at hand, such as your professors, department, and career center. You may be able to contact alumni with your major to expand your network and get more ideas

Good luck!

Martha recommends the following next steps:

See AAA article - https://americananthro.org/careers/careers-in-anthropology/
See The Muse article - https://www.themuse.com/advice/anthropology-major-degree-jobs-careers
See the Indeed article - https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/what-can-you-do-with-anthropology-degree
Thank you comment icon Thank you for the advice. Fatik
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