A degree in Anthropology is evidence of a strong liberal arts education. An undergraduate degree in Anthropology can prepare students for jobs in areas such as law, public health, social services, and cultural or natural resource management. Graduate level study allows students to pursue more specialized careers in Anthropology, as well as to continue on to Ph.D. programs. Some areas that do call for anthropological training are forensics, historical preservation, environmental management, social impact analysis and a few other specialized areas of employment.
Anthropology majors learn many skills that employers desire, especially in today's multicultural workplace. Some of these skills include:
- communication and writing skills
- observational skills
- experimental design
- interviewing experience
- statistical methods
- cross-cultural awareness
Studying anthropology gives a student the greatest breadth in looking at human behavior and in experiencing the rich cultural differences which challenge each of us in today's changing world.
Below is information about general career paths and some specific educational opportunities.
Teaching and Research in a College or University Setting
Many anthropologists teach in colleges and universities, combining teaching with research.
Pacticing (Applied) Anthropology
In recent years, more and more anthropologists are applying their skills to jobs in business and public agencies. These skills range from communicating across ethnic and other social barriers to application of advanced expertise in a particular technical area. Different anthropologists have different skills. However, they all share a concern with cultural diversity and its role in human lives.
CSUN Master of Social Work Program
Anthropology is an excellent preparation for students interested in social work careers as administrators, community advocates, counselors, policy makers, researchers, supervisors and service workers in a wide variety of settings, including community and government organizations, behavioral health centers, hospitals and schools. For more information on the CSUN Master of Social Work Program, download their brochure.