What is an Anthropologist and How Do You Become One?

An anthropologist is a social scientist who studies human societies, cultures, and their development. Becoming one typically requires a bachelor's degree in anthropology, followed by a specialization and field experience. This career path leverages a unique skill set to understand human diversity, with opportunities in academia, business, and non-profits.

What Does an Anthropologist Do?

Anthropologists examine what makes us human, from our ancient origins to contemporary social behaviors. They employ a comprehensive approach called holism—which, upon its first mention here, means studying the many interconnected aspects of the human experience, from biology and language to social structures. Rather than just looking at individual parts, anthropologists seek to understand the whole picture of human life. Their work can involve analyzing archaeological artifacts, observing modern communities, or researching communication patterns. Many anthropologists work in applied anthropology, using their research to solve practical problems in public health, business development, or community planning.

What Are the Four Main Sub-Fields of Anthropology?

The field is divided into four distinct but related disciplines, each asking different questions about humanity.

Archaeology? Archaeologists study past human cultures by recovering and analyzing material remains. This includes artifacts like pottery and tools, as well as features of the landscape like building foundations. By examining these elements, they reconstruct daily life, economic systems, and cultural beliefs of civilizations that are no longer extant.

Biological Anthropology? Biological anthropologists are interested in human evolution and how humans adapt biologically to their environments. They study human fossils, primate behavior (like that of apes and monkeys), and the interplay between human biology and culture. Their work has been fundamental in showing that despite our apparent differences, humans are more alike than different on a biological level.

Sociocultural Anthropology? This sub-field focuses on how people live in different societies and how they perceive the world. Sociocultural anthropologists often conduct participant observation—a key research method involving living within a community to understand its social structures, values, and practices from an insider's perspective.

Linguistic Anthropology? Linguistic anthropologists study how language shapes social life. They explore how language influences our worldviews, how it changes over time, and how it is used to build social identity and relationships of power.

What Skills Are Essential for a Successful Anthropologist?

Beyond academic knowledge, a successful anthropologist needs a blend of hard and soft skills.

• Analytical Skills: The ability to work with complex data, whether from a lab test, an archaeological dig, or field notes, is crucial.
• Critical Thinking: Anthropologists must synthesize information from various sources to form logical conclusions and answer research questions.
• Communication Skills: A major part of the job involves writing reports, publishing papers, and presenting findings to both academic and public audiences. Strong writing and speaking abilities are non-negotiable.
• Physical Stamina: For archaeologists and field researchers, the job can involve travel and working outdoors in challenging conditions, often while carrying equipment.

How to Become an Anthropologist: A Step-by-Step Guide

Based on common career pathways, here is a typical process for entering the field.

1. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree: The first step is an undergraduate degree in anthropology or a related social science. During this time, seek out internships or research assistant roles to gain practical experience and enhance your resume.
2. Choose a Specialization: Identify which of the four sub-fields aligns with your interests. This decision will guide your choice of graduate programs and future career. Many anthropologists find their niche where specialities intersect.
3. Research Job Vacancies: During your studies, research the job market for your specialization. Note the common requirements, such as specific certifications or experience levels, for your target roles.
4. Apply for Roles: Tailor your CV and cover letter for each application. Use keywords from the job description and highlight relevant experience and skills.

What is the Career Outlook and Salary for an Anthropologists?

The national average salary for an anthropologist in the United States is approximately $65,000 per year, but this can vary widely based on specialization, experience, and sector (e.g., government, academia, private consulting). According to data from sources like ok.com, the field is evolving. Anthropologists are increasingly valued in corporate settings for market research and user experience studies, helping businesses understand diverse consumer bases. Common career paths include roles in cultural resource management, public health, and community development.

In summary, the key steps to becoming an anthropologist are: pursuing a relevant degree, gaining field experience, and developing strong analytical and communication skills. The career offers a unique opportunity to deeply understand human diversity and apply that knowledge to real-world challenges.