Edited By Barani Krishnan
Review & Contribution By Dr. William Harris
Unlock global insights with a Master’s in Anthropology Online. Study human cultures and histories flexibly, enhancing your career and research opportunities from anywhere.
Anthropology is an interdisciplinary field that explores various aspects of cultural norms in individual societies and human brains’ physical and biological development. A master’s in anthropology online covers the theories, methods, and practices used in anthropology and its history. The program helps develop specialized cultural knowledge and skills necessary for roles in education and research. Graduates of an online master’s in anthropology qualify for diverse roles, including museum curator, digital strategist, case manager, anthropologist, archaeologist, data analyst, and more. The median annual wage for anthropologists was around $63,800 as of 2022 [1].
Table Of Contents
Featured Online Programs
FindBestDegrees.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
Southern New Hampshire University
PROGRAM: MBA with concentration in Engineering Management
Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit, accredited institution with more than 3,000 on campus students, over 170,000 online students, making it one of the fastest growing universities in the nation. Founded in 1932, we’ve been relentlessly reinventing higher education ever since and have gained national recognition for our dedication to helping students transform their lives and the lives of those around them.
We’re proud to provide affordable, accessible education that students can pursue on our 300-acre campus in Manchester, NH, or via our innovative online platform.
SNHU has earned the GetEducated.com Best Buy and Best of Business – Best Online Degree awards and is consistently ranked as a top Military Friendly® School by G.I Jobs®.
FindBestDegrees.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
National University
PROGRAM: Find Best Degree
National University, headquartered in San Diego, California, was founded in 1971 to provide educational opportunities for adult learners and working professionals. It offers over 190 degree programs, including bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees, with flexible online and on-campus courses. Serving around 40,000 students and over 240,000 alumni, the university is recognized for its support of U.S. military members. Accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), National University is committed to accessible and transformative higher education.
Find the Best Master’s in Anthropology Online Programs
Many institutions offer master’s programs in anthropology, but students must research whether they provide quality faculty, appropriate program duration, funding options, school accreditation, and various courses and specializations. The teams at FBD have evaluated several master’s programs using a proprietary methodology and prepared a list of schools offering the best master’s in anthropology.
| Univ | Address | Tuition | Grad Rate |
| The University of Chicago | Edward H. Levi Hall 5801 S. Ellis Ave. Chicago, IL 60637 | $48,300 | 96% |
Universities and programs are ranked by various factors, such as affordability, curriculum and coursework, reputation and availability, program length, statistics, the potential of employment, and return on investment for the students. For a more in-depth analysis, please read about our rankings methodology page.
What to Expect from a Master’s in Anthropology Online Program
An online master’s in anthropology helps students develop a nuanced and cross-cultural perspective on the challenges faced in a fast-changing world. Most programs range from 27 to 60 credits and can be delivered online, offline, and in hybrid learning modes, offering synchronous and asynchronous elements. The courses cover a wide range of topics in anthropology and emphasize critical thinking, research methods, writing, and ethics. In addition to the curriculum, students are expected to demonstrate mastery of skills and subjects through final projects or career-related activities such as training and workshops. This degree provides a range of skills valuable to many job roles and industries, including research and development in the humanities, the federal government, management and scientific services, engineering services, and self-employment.
Curriculum and Coursework
Coursework in this program includes anthropological thought and praxis, quantitative methods in anthropology, ethnographic and qualitative methods, and more. Some degrees include thesis work, where students design and conduct research that can benefit an organization, culminating in an oral and written report. In the non-thesis option, students complete the regular curriculum, internship requirements, and other components instead of thesis work.
The specific sequence of coursework required depends significantly on the school and specialization chosen. Depending on the program, students may need to complete various courses. However, some standard courses for an online anthropology master’s student include:
Anthropological Research
The course allows students to study every human service component, answering questions about themselves, past, present, and future, and helping connect people around the globe. Students learn about biological anthropology, systematically studying non-cultural components of humans. They also learn about researching cultural aspects of human societies worldwide.
Geographic Information Systems for Anthropology
This course helps students understand the management and conservation of cultural heritage sites. It also aids organizations in monitoring the impacts of conflict, development, and climate change on cultural and archaeological resources. Students also learn about various aspects of using GIS in archaeology, including database management, object tracking, modeling, environmental assessment, spatial analysis, and site reconstruction.
Human Osteology
This course focuses on interpreting and recovering human skeletons, aiming to identify the recently deceased in a legal context. Students study topics including bone structure, teeth, function, disease, ossification processes (from cartilaginous molds), bone resistance and hardness (biophysics), micro-bone morphology, and more. The course covers crucial aspects of preserving the past and understanding human variation.
Historic Preservation
This course on landmark preservation focuses on identifying, protecting, and enhancing buildings, objects, and places of cultural and historical significance. It is a significant way to transmit understanding of the past to future generations. Through this course, students learn various facets of the nation’s history and methods of historic conservation, including consolidation, reconstruction, preservation, rehabilitation, restoration, deterioration prevention, and reproduction.
Cultural Resources Management
This course deals with prehistoric and historic remains of past human activities, including sites, structures, landscapes, artifacts, and objects significant to a community or culture for traditional, scientific, religious, and other reasons. Students learn about the framework of state, local, and federal laws, guidelines, and regulations. Some cultural resources covered include archaeological resources, cultural landscapes, traditional cultural places, and historical structures.
Some other standard courses that are part of anthropology master’s programs include:
- Applied Data Analysis
- Research Practices
- Advanced Skeletal Analysis
- Ceramic Analysis
- Lithic Analysis
- Recent Developments in Archaeological Theory
- Principles of Geoarchaeology
Learning Outcomes and Skills Gained
Earning a master’s in anthropology can help individuals improve career prospects and provide opportunities to pursue specific concentrations. Students learn about social, biological, cultural, and linguistic anthropology. The graduate program helps qualify individuals for positions across various organizations such as social work, public health, archaeological research, and more.
Some skills that an online master’s degree in anthropology can provide to students include the ability to
- demonstrate knowledge of scientific data and methods often used in research;
- conclude from laboratory experiments, observations, and other methods of research;
- combine various sources of data with trying to solve challenges and answer research questions;
- write papers or reports in academic journals and present research findings to their general audiences and peers;
- demonstrate physical stamina to be able to work in the field and need to hike or walk several miles while carrying tools and equipment to research sites;
- explore minutiae to determine the history, importance, and origin of objects they work with;
- demonstrate a focus on specifics to use and develop complex databases related to materials stored and accessed;
- store and retrieve documents and records and develop logical systems of storage for use of the public;
- demonstrate the application of statistical tools and techniques to large amounts of data and the interpretation of results correctly.
Types of Master’s Degrees Anthropology Students Can Obtain
There are two types of online anthropology master’s: a Master of Arts or MA in anthropology and a Master of Science or MS in anthropology. Both programs are designed to prepare one for a private or public archaeology career or to pursue a doctoral degree.
Master of Arts or MA in Anthropology
A Master of Arts (MA) in Anthropology can typically be completed in two years full-time. Courses in this program cover topics such as research project design, introduction to anthropology, human osteology, and more. The coursework prepares students to demonstrate mastery of skills and knowledge related to their final project, which may involve workshops, training sessions, performing fieldwork on campus, and more.
Master of Science or MS in Anthropology
A Master of Science (MS) in Anthropology is a two-year graduate program that explores human societies, evolution, cultures, and the contributions of social reformers. The curriculum is designed to provide students with a well-rounded cultural perspective, preparing them for careers in analysis or research and offering opportunities to apply to doctoral programs.
Areas of Specialization for Anthropology Students
Specializations within anthropology master’s programs enable students to customize their education according to specific areas of interest. These specialized study tracks provide comprehensive knowledge and expertise, equipping graduates for various career paths within the expansive field of anthropology. Individuals enrolled in a master’s degree in anthropology online program in anthropology can choose from the following concentrations:
| Area of Specialization | Description | Career Options |
|---|---|---|
| Anthropological Archaeology | This specialization provides theoretical and methodological training to compare and reconstruct past societies and processes. Students gain insights into the evolution, origin, and transformation of worldwide human political, economic, and symbolic systems. | 1. Archaeologist 2. Cultural Heritage Manager 3. Museum Curator 4. Historical Preservation Officer |
| Social-cultural anthropology | Within this concentration, students delve into studies of identity and nationalism, rituals, religious practices, migration, transnational movements, and celebrations. They employ holistic strategies to examine connections between the past and present, local and global contexts, offering diverse approaches to understanding contemporary issues. | 1. Cultural Anthropologist 2. Public Relations Manager 3. Interpreter 4. Community Development Specialist |
| Environmental Anthropology | This concentration helps students comprehend how cultures interact with environmental settings, adapting technological features, kinship, or religion to enable people to pursue their livelihoods and organize economically. Study topics include environmental features, sociocultural components, cultural adaptations, etc. | 1. Geographic Information Systems Analyst 2. Research Associate 3. Museum Curator 4. Urban Planner |
| Global Health and Medical Anthropology | In this concentration, students learn advanced courses that address critical concepts in global health and develop skills needed to investigate health and healthcare globally. They study human bodies and their external environments, examining factors contributing to fatal conditions and diseases affecting humans. | 1. Medical Anthropologist 2. Public Health Specialist 3. Global Health Researcher 4. Health Policy Analyst |
| Paleoanthropology | This specialization focuses on studying human evolution and origins through artifacts and fossils. Students understand fossil records and genetic cues, constructing rough timelines of evolution. Topics include the origin of human fossils, hominization, and the reconstruction of evolutionary kinship lines within the family Hominidae, among others. | 1. Paleoanthropologist 2. Research Scientist 3. Museum Curator 4. Scientific Consultant |
| Population Genetics | This concentration explores speciation, population structure, adaptation, migration, genetics, gene flow, mutation, nonrandom mating, and more. It facilitates the identification of alleles associated with providing insights into the effects of medical intervention and disease risk on population frequency. | 1. Geneticist 2. Bioinformatician 3. Research Scientist 4. Genomic Data Scientist |
Full-Time and Part-Time Programs
As with most educational degrees, the time required to obtain a master’s in anthropology would depend on the number of courses completed from the coursework. On average, it takes about two years to complete a master’s degree when pursued full-time. A part-time degree in anthropology would take longer than two years. Students can complete the program in an accelerated format in less than two years. Here is a quick summary of the timeline to complete an online master’s degree anthropology:
- Full-time program: Two years
- Part-time program: More than two years
- Accelerated program: Less than two years
Accelerated Anthropology Programs
An accelerated master’s degree in anthropology allows students to complete it in less time than a traditional program. Applying to graduate programs in the accelerated format follows the same procedures as standard applications. Students often choose accelerated programs due to other commitments like work and to reduce program costs. They can accelerate their programs by fast-tracking their degrees and transferring credits. Generally, accelerating a master’s program requires completing more courses in less time, which can be overwhelming due to the heavier workload.
Here are a few colleges that provide an accelerated online master’s degree in anthropology program
Requirements for Getting into a Master’s in Anthropology Online Program
When applying for a graduate degree, applicants encounter various requirements to understand and prepare their documentation accordingly. Most colleges typically require an undergraduate degree in anthropology or related fields. Since master’s programs include advanced coursework, institutions aim to ensure applicants possess a foundational understanding of anthropology. Therefore, prerequisites in earth sciences, math, etc., may be necessary.
Some of the standard admission requirements for master’s in anthropology online include:
- Application fee and completed form
- Undergraduate degree from an accredited program
- Admissions essay that describes your professional and educational aspiration
- Test scores from the Graduate Record Exam or GRE (waived off by some schools)
- Personal statement or statement of purpose
- Two to three letters of recommendation from professionals in the field
- Graduate Resume highlighting any experience in anthropology or related fields
No GRE Master’s in Anthropology Online Programs
The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a standardized test required for admission to many master’s programs in the United States. However, an increasing number of colleges have completely waived the GRE requirement. Typically, anthropology doctoral programs do not require a GRE score. Here are a few colleges that provide an online anthropology master’s degree with no GRE requirements:
How to Ensure a Master’s in Anthropology Online Program Is Accredited
Accreditation for a master’s in anthropology can be awarded to the university, department, or online program. It assures students of quality education, considering factors like course selection, program format, faculty competence, and more. This accreditation enhances the program’s credibility, ensuring students receive a valuable and recognized degree.
There are a few national accreditation associations along with six regional associations, which are:
- New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
Where to Find Free Online Courses for Master’s in Anthropology Online Students
Free online courses in anthropology offer master’s students valuable insights into the field without financial commitment. They provide foundational knowledge, allowing students to explore concepts and gain introductory expertise. While lacking accreditation, these courses serve as informative resources, enhancing students’ understanding and supplementing formal education with flexible, accessible learning opportunities. Here are a few free anthropology courses students can explore:
| Course | Description | Provided by |
|---|---|---|
| Big History: Connecting Knowledge[6] | This course explores cosmic evolution and traces the long trajectory of human development from the origin of our species 200,000 years ago to the Industrial Revolution. It delves into influences from archaeology, ancient medieval history, paleography, and early modern history. | Coursera |
| Forensic Anthropology – Skeletal Analysis[7] | Through this course, students learn to define and identify traumatic lesions on human skeletal remains. They comprehend the ethical considerations significant to forensic anthropologists and anthropologists, along with techniques to estimate the weight and height of an individual at death. | Udemy |
| Anthropology of Current World Issues[8] | This course teaches students about anthropological toolkits, cultural comparisons, and cultural differences and similarities. They understand how to view the world from various perspectives and points of view. The course enhances their ability to engage in cultural comparison effectively. | Edx |
Ways to Pay for a Master’s in Anthropology Online Degree
Seeking an online master’s degree in anthropology may incur substantial costs, posing affordability challenges, especially for employed individuals with additional responsibilities. To address this, universities and institutions aim to devise more economical fee structures and offer alternative payment methods through diverse avenues.
Graduate Assistantships
Graduate assistantships provide invaluable opportunities for graduate students to gain hands-on experience while pursuing their studies. These positions often involve teaching, research, or administrative duties, offering stipends, tuition waivers, and professional development. They foster academic and professional growth, preparing students for future careers in academia and beyond.
Scholarships provide invaluable financial aid, opening doors to education for deserving individuals. They reward academic excellence, leadership, and diverse talents, easing the burden of tuition fees and expenses. Beyond monetary value, scholarships foster ambition, enabling students to pursue their dreams and contribute meaningfully to society.
Grants offer crucial financial support, often based on financial need or specific criteria. They alleviate the financial strain of education, covering tuition, books, and living expenses. These grants empower students from various backgrounds to access higher education and pursue their aspirations.
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a crucial form for students seeking financial aid for higher education. It determines eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs. Assessing family finances helps colleges and universities allocate funds, making education more accessible for millions of students.
Scholarships for Master’s in Anthropology Online Degree Students
Scholarships for online Master’s in Anthropology students offer financial assistance and recognition of academic merit or research potential. These awards ease the financial burden of tuition and related expenses, enabling dedicated individuals to pursue advanced studies in anthropology remotely. By supporting diverse talents and perspectives, these scholarships enrich the field and empower students to excel academically.
Here are a few online master’s in anthropology scholarships:
| Scholarship | Description | Award/Amount | Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arthur C. Parker and Bertha Parker Cody[9] | The Society established the scholarship for American Archaeology to aid in archaeological training for Native Hawaiians, Native Americans, and Alaska Natives. Recipients receive an annual award along with participation in an archaeological training program. | Varies | January annually |
| National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowships[10] | The National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowships offers a Graduate Research Fellowship for excellent graduate students pursuing a research-based master’s or doctoral program at an accredited U.S. school. Applicants must major in technology, mathematical science, social sciences, education, or related fields to qualify for this scholarship. | Annual stipend of $37,000 and $16,000 cost of education allowance for fees. | Varies |
Career Opportunities and Salaries After Graduating With a Master’s in Anthropology Online
Students pursuing a career as an anthropologist engage in various research methods to uncover specific artifacts or physical evidence. A graduate degree in anthropology can significantly enhance both professional and academic pursuits. Some of the professional roles graduates can expect after graduating with an online master’s in anthropology include:
- Sociologists
- Lawyers
- Historians
- Political Scientists
- Legislators
- Archaeologist
- Forensic Science Technicians
- Geographers
- Anthropologists
Here are a few more occupations explored:
| Occupation | Skills Required | Median Annual Salary | Job Growth (up to 2032) | Job Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anthropologists[1] | Analytical, communication, critical-thinking skills, and physical stamina. | $63,800 | 4% (as fast as average) | Anthropologists analyze archaeological remains, physical characteristics of populations, languages, cultures, and more from diverse perspectives. They compile reports, disseminate research findings, and guide organizations regarding the cultural implications of their programs, products, and policies. |
| Survey Researchers[11] | Analytical, communication, critical-thinking, detail-oriented, and problem-solving skills. | $60,960 | -4% (decline) | Survey researchers design and conduct surveys for a multitude of research objectives. They administer surveys for scientific inquiry across government, social sciences, health, and education sectors. These experts adeptly address and resolve challenges arising from sampling complexities. |
| Political Scientists[12] | Communication, problem-solving, research, and analytical skills. | $132,350 | 7% (faster than average) | Political scientists delve into comparative politics, international relations, political theory, and domestic politics. They serve as policy analysts for entities vested in policy outcomes, such as labor unions, political organizations, and government bodies. These experts also predict trends in politics, society, and the economy. |
| Geographers[13] | Analytical, computer, communication, and critical-thinking skills. | $90,880 | 1% (little or no change) | Geographers utilize maps and global positioning systems to gather and analyze geographic data employing geographic information systems (GIS). They produce reports, present research findings, offer guidance on GIS and geographic data utilization, and conduct research through surveys. |
| Sociologists[14] | Analytical, communication, and critical thinking skills. | $101,770 | 5% (faster than average) | Sociologists draft articles, presentations, or reports delineating research findings and devise research projects to assess theories or societal concerns. They employ qualitative and quantitative methods, often utilizing various statistical analysis programs throughout the research process. |
Certifications and Licensing for Master’s in Anthropology Online Graduates
Certifications and licensing for anthropology master’s degrees online vary but may include credentials in specialized areas like cultural resource management or forensic anthropology. While formal certifications may not be mandated, relevant field experience and training are often required for professional roles in the United States.
Additional Resources for Master’s in Anthropology Online Graduates
While pursuing an online Master’s degree in anthropology enhances career prospects, understanding additional resources is vital for students’ success. These resources may include access to research databases, academic journals, professional associations, and networking opportunities. Such supplementary support aids students in gaining practical skills, expanding their knowledge base, and establishing themselves within anthropology. Students pursuing a master’s degree in anthropology online can access the following resources:
| Title/Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| American Anthropological Association | The organization aims to assist individuals in exploring their passion, honing their research skills, and disseminating knowledge of anthropology to address human challenges. Those with a professional interest in anthropology, seeking to make it a source of livelihood, can register as members. |
| Society for Applied Anthropology | The organization boasts a diverse membership encompassing various fields such as anthropology, public health, sociology, economics, and more. Members enjoy numerous benefits, including opportunities for professional development and networking across different career stages and contexts. |
| The National Association for the Practice of Anthropology NAPA | NAPA fosters human-centered work by connecting a network of professional anthropologists engaged across diverse sectors. They assist anthropologists in providing tangible solutions to organizations, policymakers, and communities through information dissemination, mentoring, continuing education, networking, and advocacy efforts. |
| Society for Linguistic Anthropology | The Society for Linguistic Anthropology offers numerous resources to its members, including journals, updates on field advancements, social justice initiatives, and networking opportunities with anthropology professionals. Additionally, they provide a diverse range of teaching resources categorized by topic, aiding educators in enriching their courses. |
| Washington Association of Professional Anthropologists (WAPA) | Members of this association gain access to monthly meetings and social gatherings, providing forums for exchanging ideas and experiences in applying anthropological knowledge. The WAPA Praxis Biannual Award acknowledges exceptional contributions by anthropologists to projects within the realm of applied anthropology. |
FAQs About Master’s in Anthropology Online Programs
Why should you do a master’s in anthropology degree online?
Pursuing an online master’s in anthropology can benefit individuals balancing personal or professional commitments. Opting for an online program provides flexibility in coursework, allowing students to manage their schedules effectively. Additionally, online programs often offer cost-effective tuition options, making higher education more accessible to a broader range of learners.
Is a master’s in anthropology worth it?
Is taking up a thesis necessary in anthropology?
Is it necessary to have a bachelor’s degree in anthropology to pursue a master’s?
How much does a master’s degree in anthropology cost?
What can you do with a master’s in anthropology online degree?
How valuable is an online master’s degree?
Citations:
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Anthropologists
Case Western Reserve University
Coursera: Big History-Connecting Knowledge
Udemy: Forensic Anthropology – Skeletal analysis
Edx: Anthropology of Current World Issues
Arthur C. Parker and Bertha Parker Cody
National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowships
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Survey Researchers
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Political Scientists
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Geographers
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Sociologists