Top 5 Jobs for a Master's Degree in Anthropology in 2022

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January 21, 2022
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According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median pay of anthropologists in 2020 was $66,130 per year. You can expect an employment growth of 7% from 2020 to 2030.

When you hear the word anthropology, you may see the image of skulls, past societies, and cultures in your mind. 

Anthropology is the study of humanity, taking into account the culture and societies developed over the years. It looks at the biological perspective and so much more! So, as an anthropologist, you will study humans over time how societies have changed over the years and a lot more. So, those who opt for a career in anthropology have a wide range of selections. 

So, what can you do with a master's degree in anthropology? 

Let's find out today. 

What Can You Do With A Master's Degree In Anthropology? 

When you study anthropology, you have a chance to focus on your area of specialization—for example, social anthropology, biological anthropology, linguistic anthropology, and sociocultural anthropology. In addition, the career field is diverse, and you can select the career paths in the private sector and the public sector. 

As an American anthropological degree holder, you have a variety of options. For example, with a master's degree in anthropology, you can see yourself in the following career or jobs: 

#1. Anthropology Professor

According to Zip Recruiter, you'll need a master's degree in anthropology or one major anthropological facet to pursue your career as a professor. However, a master's degree would let you enjoy your career as a college professor. Acquiring a Ph.D. would further enhance your career. Also, you need to have strong communication and research skills. 

According to the U.S.Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage of postsecondary anthropology and archaeology teachers was $89,220 per year. 

#2. Medical Anthropologist 

If you want to pursue your career in dealing with healthcare policies and processes, you can consider a career in medical anthropology. Your job description would be studying the aging phenomenon of humans, growth patterns, and more! You would be studying about the past and the present. 

The average base salary of a medical anthropologist in the United States is $80,823 per year. 

#3. Museum Curator 

You can become a museum curator with a master's degree in anthropology. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, you would be responsible for acquiring the collections, storing, and also exhibiting them. You would also be cleaning the ancient tools, statues, and more! 

According to the U.S.Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage of curators in 2020 was $56,990

#4. Social Worker 

Your options are not confined when you have a degree in anthropology. You can do a lot with a bachelor's degree, but a master's degree increases your career opportunities.

Understanding people can help you become a social worker. You also know the societies and cultures of the past depending on your degree. Social science is an excellent way of understanding community. So, the role of a social worker would be great for your career. According to Indeed, the salary of a social worker in the United States is $55,327 per year. 

#5. Cultural Resource Manager 

If you are interested in cultural resources, you can consider your career as a cultural resource manager. According to Glassdoor, the national average salary of the cultural resource manager in the United States is $64,335. You would be dealing with the management of the scarce cultural resources.

In this career, you can work in the public sector and non-government. You may also organize educational tours and more!

Final Thoughts 

You may wonder whether anthropologists' work has a limit. However, they are suitable for the private sector with excellent planning, market research, and organization skills. 

The anthropologists can work for non-profit and maintain a bright academic career as a teacher. The options mentioned above are a few examples, but the sky is the limit when you have the right skills, experience, and knowledge.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does a master's degree in anthropology enhance job prospects in the field?

A master's degree in anthropology provides advanced research skills, specialized knowledge, and a deeper understanding of cultural complexities, which are highly valued in roles such as cultural resource management, policy analysis, and higher education. This level of education can lead to more senior positions, higher salaries, and opportunities for independent research or consulting work.

Are there emerging job sectors for anthropology master's graduates to consider in 2022 and beyond?

Yes, emerging sectors include user experience (UX) research, where anthropologists apply their skills to understand consumer behavior and design better digital products, and sustainability consulting, where their insights into human-environment interactions are crucial for developing eco-friendly business practices. Additionally, roles in public health have gained prominence, especially as medical anthropology becomes more integral in understanding health crises like pandemics.

What additional skills should an anthropology master's graduate develop to increase employability?

Anthropology master's graduates should consider enhancing their data analysis skills, as quantitative research is becoming increasingly important in the field. Proficiency in a foreign language can also be a significant asset, especially for roles involving work with diverse populations. Furthermore, developing strong writing and communication skills is essential for effectively conveying anthropological insights to non-specialist audiences, which is valuable in many professional contexts.

Dave Fano

Founder and CEO of Teal, Dave is a serial entrepreneur with 20+ years of experience building products & services to help people leverage technology and achieve more with less.

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