How to Become an Anthropologist?
Exploring the Path to Becoming an Anthropologist: Your Comprehensive Guide.
In this Career Outline
Introduction to Anthropologist
“Embark on a journey as an anthropologist, exploring the intricate tapestry of human cultures and societies.”
Imagine delving into the mysteries of human societies, uncovering ancient cultures, and understanding the intricacies of human behavior across the globe. If you're fascinated by diverse cultures and curious about what makes societies tick, then a career as an anthropologist might be your calling. In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to becoming an anthropologist, from the educational requirements to the exciting career prospects that await you in this field.
Steps to Become an Anthropologist:
Step-1
Research different branches of anthropology—cultural, biological, linguistic, and archaeological—to find your area of interest.
Step-2
Obtain a degree in anthropology or a related field. Courses in sociology, biology, and history can also be beneficial.
Step-3
Engage in fieldwork, internships, or volunteer opportunities. This hands-on experience is crucial for developing practical skills.
Step-4
Consider a Master’s degree or PhD in anthropology to specialize in your chosen area. Advanced degrees are often necessary for higher-level positions and research roles.
Step-5
Learn relevant skills such as statistical analysis, linguistic proficiency, or archaeological techniques. Language skills can be particularly valuable.
Step-6
Engage in extensive fieldwork to collect data and conduct research. This is a core component of anthropological study and often involves working in diverse environments.
Step-7
Publish your research in academic journals, attend conferences, and join professional organizations like the American Anthropological Association. Networking with other professionals can open up career opportunities.
Eligibility Criteria
| Eligibility Criteria | Description |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Must possess at least 50% aggregate in 12th grade |
| Educational Background | 12th grade from a recognized institution (PUC/CBSE/ICSE/ISC, etc.) |
| Undergraduate Degree | Should have a B.Sc/B.A, diploma, or certification from a recognized establishment as a basic qualification to enroll in Anthropology. |
| Postgraduate Degree | An M.Sc/M.A in Anthropology is recommended for advanced studies and in-depth knowledge in the field. |
| Entrance Exams | There are no standardized entrance exams specifically for Anthropology. Admission procedures vary by university, and some may require general tests like GRE depending on their selection process. |
- Must possess at least 50% aggregate from a recognized institution in 12th, from any board PUC/CBSE/ICSE/ISC, etc. However, the cut-off margin varies with the selection process of different colleges.
- There are no standardized Entrance exams after 12th for enrolling in Anthropology. The availability of these assessments is solely based on the prospects of the University.
- One must acquire a B.Sc/B.A, diploma or certification in a recognized establishment to become an Anthropologist. This is a basic qualification you must require to enroll in this line of work.
- An M.Sc/M.A in Anthropology can also prove to be helpful while looking for a higher degree and extensive learning.
Not eligible to pursue this career?
Find out different career options based on your current academic accomplishments. Enquire with our career experts and build a roadmap to your career success!
Tasks to perform as an Anthropologist:
Knowledge & Skills Required
Anthropologists require a diverse range of skills to excel in their positions. Below are the essential knowledge areas and skill sets required for success in this field:
| Knowledge Required | |
|---|---|
| Understanding of key theoretical frameworks (e.g., cultural evolution, functionalism, structuralism) in anthropology. | Proficiency in qualitative research methods such as participant observation, interviews, and ethnographic techniques. |
| Knowledge of various cultures, their customs, beliefs, and social practices across different regions and societies. | Skills in conducting ethnographic research, including data collection, analysis, and interpretation within cultural contexts. |
| Understanding of language structures, language variation, and the role of language in culture and identity. | Knowledge of human evolution, genetics, primatology, and biological diversity among human populations. |
| Skills Required | |
|---|---|
| Data Analysis | Cross-Cultural Communication |
| History of Anthropology | Environmental Anthropology |
| Gender and Identity Studies | Public Engagement |
| Critical Thinking | Time management |
The Knowlegde and Skills don't intrigue you?
The reason is that your interests don't align with this career. Identify your interests and match them with careers that require those skills. This alignment will help you grow and succeed in your career faster than you might expect!
Job roles offered for an Anthropologist:
Once you procure the required qualifications for becoming an Anthropologist, a myriad of options are open to you. There are multiple projects you can undertake throughout this line of work, and there are many other fields you can branch out to as well.
Studies cultural similarities and differences, interacts with communities or analyzes existing studies to understand human behavior, political structures, and arts across civilizations.
Researches human behavior to improve health and prevent harmful actions, investigates factors influencing decision-making, and applies findings to enhance healthcare, public health initiatives, and organizational efficiency.
Conducts scientific investigations, designs experiments, collects data, and publishes findings in academic journals. Works in various fields such as health, politics, and environmental science, aiming to advance knowledge and understanding.
Leads a research and development division, oversees projects, manages teams, and ensures innovative breakthroughs. Responsible for team motivation, project planning, and reporting on research outcomes.
Studies ancient civilizations through archaeological excavations, analyzes artifacts and interprets cultural evolution and human history. Conducts research to uncover past human behaviors, languages, and societal structures.
Not sure where you fit in?
With the wide variety of careers and job roles available, pinpointing the best option for you can be challenging. Thorough analysis and dedicated sessions can provide clarity on what to study, which industry and role to pursue, and the most suitable career path to follow.
Career opportunities in Anthropologist:
Anthropologists can opt for various fields of work in the companies listed below:
| Troy University | STP Research | CoRe |
| RTI International | BYJU’s | Pangolin |
| NMIMS | Illumine Knowledge Resources | Amity University |
| Landor & Fitch |
Career opportunities for an Anthropologist:
Here is the list of colleges offering the Best courses after 12th:
| BJB Autonomous College, Bhubaneswar | National P.G. College Lucknow - National Post Graduate College |
| St Paul's College, Ranchi | The Graduate School College for Women, Jamshedpur |
| Shailabala Women's College, Cuttack | Dharanidhar Autonomous College, Keonjhar |
| Khallikote Autonomous College, Berhampur | Gossner College, Ranchi |
| Tata College, Chaibasa | Giridih College, Giridih |
End Note
Becoming an anthropologist opens doors to a world of cultural exploration and academic discovery. Whether you aspire to uncover ancient civilizations or address contemporary social issues, anthropology offers a unique perspective on humanity. Connect with our experts at SetMyCareer for Career counselling to navigate your path towards becoming an anthropologist. Your journey to understanding cultures and shaping societies starts here!
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