Anthropology is a broad field that lends itself to many diverse and exciting careers. The four major areas of anthropology include: archaeology, biological anthropology, cultural anthropology and linguistic anthropology, according to the American Anthropological Association.

Anthropologists are social scientists who study ancient through contemporary societies to better understand the human condition. Entry-level anthropology jobs as technicians are possible with a bachelor’s degree, but earning a master’s or a PhD. D. opens up more career possibilities that offer higher salaries.

Anthropologists immerse themselves in the study of cultures around the world. Their area of specialisation determines the type of research they do. For example, biological anthropologists are concerned with how humans and primates like apes adapt to changing environments and evolve.

They may study fossils or observe monkeys in the wild to learn about their biology and behavior. Archeologists also dig for fossils and examine artefacts, but they are more interested in solving mysteries in human history.

Anthropologist job descriptions typically focus on research activities that may lead to discoveries that could change the ideas in textbooks. Forensic anthropologists help police identify victims based on analysis of bone fragments and skeletal remains that reveal height, age, gender, diseases and trauma. Essential skills include patience, attention to detail, critical thinking and an analytical nature.

A bachelor’s degree in anthropology is the minimum education requirement to work in the field as a lab assistant or field technician, reports the U.S. Bureau of Lab-or Statistics (BL). Most anthropologists hold a two-year master’s degree or a PhD. in a specialised area of interest. They often travel abroad to excavation sites and learn a foreign language to deepen their awareness and appreciation of other cultures.

Anthropologists pursuing a Ph.D. learn quantitative and qualitative research methods and spend about 18 to 30 months working on field research as part of their doctoral dissertation. Anthropology students learn to apply theories to solving real world problems, such as food scarcity, limited health access and human rights.

The U.S. Bureau of Lab-or Statistics reports that anthropologists and archaeologists earn a median wage of ​$30.61​ per hour or ​$63,670​ per year, as of 2019. (Median means half earn more and half earn less.) Fifty percent of these professionals earn somewhere between ​$23.92​ per hour or ​$49,760​ per year, and ​$39.17​ per hour or ​$81,480​ per year.

The lifestyle of anthropologists varies depending on the work setting and how much time they spend in the field. Some are employed by universities, indigenous organisations, museums, the White House, government agencies and the U.S. military, according to Palomar College.

Work may require frequent travel and being away from home for extended periods to study culturally significant sites. Anthropology jobs can also require physical stamina and an ability to tolerate rugged living conditions in remote areas.

Anthropologists with experience and graduate degrees can conduct independent research, supervise lab technicians, They can teach college courses with a PhD in anthropology. Entry-level anthropologists with a bachelor’s degree may fall in the lower 10 percent wage bracket earning ​$18.97​ per hour or ​$39,460​ per year. Anthropologists with years of experience and a graduate degree are more likely to fall in the top 10 percent wage bracket earning upwards of ​$47.09​ per hour or ​$97,950​ per year.

The BL projects that demand for anthropologist jobs will grow by 5 percent in the decade ending in 2029, which is slightly above the expected growth rate of other occupations.

Anthropology jobs will be in demand to help corporations better understand and market to diverse demographic groups and cultures. Opportunities will be best for those who have research skills and graduate degrees.

Read more: What skills does an anthropologist need