Anthropology Major
Anthropology is the study of humans, their cultures, societies, and biological origins. It is a major within Social Sciences.
Anthropology is the study of humans—how people live, think, organize themselves, and change over time. The major explores human cultures, social systems, languages, and also the biological history of our species. Students examine questions like how societies develop rules and traditions, why cultures differ in their practices, how people adapt to different environments, and where humans came from. The field combines research methods from both social sciences and natural sciences, teaching students to observe carefully, ask critical questions about human behavior, and understand different ways of life on their own terms.
Students drawn to anthropology typically have curiosity about human diversity and a genuine interest in understanding perspectives different from their own. They often enjoy fieldwork and direct observation, though the major also includes classroom-based and laboratory study. Anthropology programs usually begin with foundational courses that introduce the major subfields and core concepts, then progress to more specialized courses where students focus on particular regions, time periods, or research questions. Upper-level work typically involves more independent research and analysis, allowing students to apply what they've learned to specific human societies or populations.
Typical coursework
Course requirements vary by school, but a Anthropology program commonly includes topics such as:
- Cultural anthropology
- Biological anthropology
- Archaeology
- Linguistic anthropology
- Ethnographic methods
- Human evolution
Most programs also include general-education requirements and, in many fields, a capstone project, internship, or research experience.
Degree levels
Anthropology is commonly offered at these levels:
- Bachelor's
- Master's
- Doctoral
Availability differs by institution, and program names can vary (for example, a Bachelor of Arts versus a Bachelor of Science track).
Common career directions
Graduates with a Anthropology background pursue a range of paths. Some roles related to this field of study include:
- Anthropologist
- Researcher
- Museum technician
- Cultural resource specialist
Many careers require additional steps beyond the major — such as a graduate degree, a license, or a certification — and many graduates work in fields unrelated to their major. What you study is one factor among many in where your career goes.
General career information is drawn from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook. Career paths vary widely by person, school, and region; this is not a list of guaranteed jobs or earnings.
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Find degree programs →Frequently asked questions
What is a Anthropology major?
Anthropology is the study of humans, their cultures, societies, and biological origins. It is part of social sciences, and combines foundational coursework with more focused study as you advance.
What courses do Anthropology majors take?
Coursework varies by school, but commonly includes topics such as cultural anthropology, biological anthropology, archaeology, linguistic anthropology, and others, plus general-education requirements.
What can you do with a Anthropology major?
Graduates pursue a range of paths, including roles such as anthropologist, researcher, museum technician. Many roles require additional steps such as a graduate degree, license, or certification. This is general information, not a guarantee of any job or salary.
What degree levels is Anthropology offered at?
It is commonly offered at the bachelor's, master's, doctoral level, though availability varies by institution.