To work as an anthropologist, you typically need to:

• have a high school diploma or equivalent;
• have a bachelor's degree; and
• have a master's degree in anthropology.

Education after high school

With a bachelor's degree in anthropology you can work as a research assistant. In general, you need at least a master's degree to conduct research. Some anthropologists have a doctorate (PhD). This enables them to work as a professor at a college or university. Some programs grant a master's degree in anthropology while you are studying for the PhD. Other programs separate the master's and PhD programs.

In anthropology you learn the origin, customs, and living habits of human cultures. Most anthropologists focus on one region of the world. You want to study as much about that region as possible while you are in college.

As a master's or doctoral student you specialize in an area of anthropology. Common areas of study are linguistics, physical anthropology, and biological anthropology. Many colleges offer programs in anthropology.

Work experience

Working as a research assistant is good experience for this field. Look for this kind of job when you are a college student.

Some students complete an internship while in school. This is important work experience that may help you find a job.