If you're curious about people, cultures, and how humans have evolved and interacted over time, anthropology might just be your thing. Think of it like putting together a puzzle—except the puzzle is all of human history and behavior.
What is anthropology?
Anthropology is the study of humans from all angles—past, present, and sometimes even future. It’s about understanding cultures, behaviors, languages, and even bones. Whether you're digging through artifacts or decoding cultural norms, you're learning what it really means to be human.
What is an anthropology major?
An anthropology major takes you deep into the world of human experience. You’ll learn about different societies, belief systems, family structures, and how humans evolved over time. It's a mix of social science, biology, history, and critical thinking all in one degree.
Common courses and concentrations for anthropology majors
Courses often include cultural anthropology, biological anthropology, linguistic anthropology, and archaeology. Many programs also offer concentrations or tracks, like medical anthropology or forensic anthropology, where you can focus on specific human experiences or skills.
How do I know if anthropology is for me?
If you're constantly asking "why do people do what they do?" or you love documentaries about ancient civilizations, anthropology could be your vibe. It’s great for curious thinkers who enjoy research, writing, and understanding human stories from all walks of life.
What skills will I build as an anthropology major?
Anthropology majors develop strong critical thinking, research, data collection, writing, and cultural awareness skills. You’ll also learn how to conduct interviews, analyze texts, and work with diverse communities—skills that come in handy in a lot of careers.
Types of anthropology degrees
You can pursue a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or a Bachelor of Science (BS) in anthropology, depending on the focus of your program. Some schools offer associate degrees or master’s and PhDs if you’re looking to level up academically.
Common double majors and minors
Anthropology pairs well with majors like:
Minors in linguistics, gender studies, global studies, or even biology can add depth to your degree and open more career doors.
Top career paths for anthropology majors
Wondering what can you do with an anthropology degree? A lot, actually. Careers in anthropology include:
- Cultural researcher or fieldworker
- User experience (UX) or human-centered design specialist
- Nonprofit or NGO program coordinator
- Archivist or museum curator
- Public health analyst
- Educator or academic
How much can I earn with an anthropology degree?
Wondering what you can earn with an anthropology degree? The median salary for anthropologists and archaeologists is around $64,900, with top roles earning over $100K, especially in government or consulting. Entry-level jobs with a bachelor’s degree pay around $63K, while college professors in the field can make closer to $94K. It’s not the highest-paying major, but with the right path, it can definitely lead to solid, rewarding careers.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, April 2025
Notable schools for anthropology majors
Top programs can be found at schools like:
Use Scout College Search to find programs that match your goals and budget.
How can I pay for an anthropology degree?
College can be expensive, but scholarships can make a big difference. Start by exploring scholarships by major, including options specifically for anthropology students through our scholarships for anthropology majors page.
You can also use Scholly Scholarships to match with scholarship opportunities tailored to your background, interests, and goals. And if you’re looking for a quick win, don’t forget to enter the $2,000 No Essay Scholarship, which takes just minutes to apply for.
Still not sure? Try searching schools using Scout College Search and see what programs catch your eye. The world of anthropology is wide, and there's room for your curiosity to thrive.
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