Is PhD in anthropology online on your radar? Would you like to gain admission or apply for PhD in anthropology online ? If so, this article will help! This article will provide you with the most up-to-date information about courses about doctorate programs in anthropology online

Read on for more information on PhD anthropology distance learning, online anthropology graduate degrees, PhD in cultural anthropology online, anthropology PhD programs and many related topics on Collegelearners.

What is an Online Doctorate in Anthropology Program?

Anthropology is the study of humanity and their cultures across space and time. There are four fields of anthropology: biological anthropology, cultural anthropology, linguistic anthropology, and archaeology. While traditional programs in anthropology are conducted in the classroom, online programs are now available as well. An online doctorate in anthropology program, usually focusing on one of the four fields, will give the student the credentials to do things such as research and analyze these cultures, participate in fieldwork, and publish ethnographical content. Like traditional programs, the online anthropology programs include classroom hours, internships, and a dissertatio

Why Should I Get an Online PhD in Anthropology?

An online PhD in anthropology is best suited for individuals who enjoy studying human beings, past or present. Students who are interest in culture and history would thrive in an anthropological environment. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), students who are interested in anthropology should have excellent analytical, critical-thinking and communication skills, as well as strong physical stamina due to the fact that it is such a hands-on field of expertise. Additionally, working abroad is often an option to study different cultures in what is often referred to as “participant observation,” so those who love travel and experiencing new things should consider a PhD in anthropology.

Admissions Requirements for Online Anthropology Doctorate Programs

Admissions requirements for online doctorate degrees in anthropology programs are very similar to most PhD requirements. Students need to have completed a master’s degree with at least a 3.0 GPA or higher. It is not necessary that the degree is in anthropology, but some completed coursework is recommended. It may be of interest to check out the best online bachelor’s in anthropology in order to determine whether or not prior coursework is necessary. It is also generally required to write a personal statement, submit letters of recommendation (usually two or three), and have proof of English proficiency. Some universities also require competency in a second language as well. Although most requirements are fairly similar, it is important to check with each university of interest because there may be very subtle differences for their admissions processes.

What Should I Expect from an Online Doctorate in Anthropology?

Students who are interested in an online doctorate in anthropology should expect to select a specific anthropological approach (i.e., archaeology) to concentrate their degree around. Most schools have approaches that land under each of the four fields of anthropology, such as sociocultural anthropology or biological anthropology. Once an area is chosen, the student must complete about 54 credit hours. It is also important to apply for internships during the program because this is a degree that requires extensive hands-on experience.

How Long is an Online PhD Anthropology Program?

The online PhD anthropology program takes about 4-5 years to complete the average of 54 credit hours, depending on a students schedule and the number of credits they are coming into the program with. Some universities award up to 30 credit hours from online master’s degrees in anthropology. The breakdown across all years is about 30-36 credit hours in coursework and 18-24 credit hours in research and dissertation work, depending on the program.

online PhD programs in anthropology

Common Courses for Online Anthropology Doctoral Programs

There are a number of courses that are common to the online anthropology doctoral programs. This coursework includes the basic knowledge needed to study different cultures and their origins. Because a lot of the coursework depends on the student’s chosen approach, elective courses will become more specific as the program progresses; however, the coursework most common to the general umbrella of anthropology consists of a lot of introductory courses, including Introduction to Linguistic Anthropology, Reading/Writing Ethnography, Principles of Biological Anthropology, and Introduction to Archaeology. Upon completion, each student should have a basic understanding of this area of study.

Introduction to Linguistic Anthropology

This course discusses language as a whole, rather than any one specific language. It focuses on the origin and evolution of language in general, as well as how language interacts with a culture. This includes basic structural features of language, comparing human language and animal communication, and evidence for the innate nature of language.

Reading/Writing Ethnography

This is a course that focuses on anthropological literature. It discusses different methods of research and observation, as well as professional scientific and ethnographic writing styles. This will be helpful for students because all of the profession requires reading ethnographies for research and writing ethnographies to discuss the student’s findings.

Principles of Biological Anthropology

This introductory course generally consists of a lecture and an accompanying lab. It considers human evolution and genetics throughout history. Students will learn about non-human primates, our ancestors, and human variation. They will also be able to discuss human interactions of biology, behavior, and our environments.

Introduction to Archaeology

Archaeology is the study of human history and prehistory through excavation sites and analyzing artifacts and other physical remains. This course provides knowledge on methods of excavation, dating artifacts and sites, and how to classify artifacts. The student will learn how to study physical aspects of human history and be able to make conclusions about cultures based on their findings.

the Fastest Online Master’s in Anthropology Degree:

Known for its interdisciplinary coursework, the study of Anthropology will focus on the cultural, historical, and biological points of view of human societies. Interested graduate students will likely have a background in anthropology with a desire to specialize in a sub-field of the discipline. Merging both academic and applied anthropology methods, a primary goal of the program is to teach students applicable research skills and quantitative reasoning used for on-the-job research projects and fieldwork. 

Types of Degrees in the Quickest Master’s in Anthropology Online:

A Master of Arts is the most common degree type in Anthropology, but some schools do offer a Master of Science. 

Schools will also offer two different degrees: an academic anthropology degree and an applied anthropology degree.

The main difference between the two is that a general/academic anthropology degree will focus on existing research. In contrast, a degree in applied anthropology will focus more on new research through fieldwork. An academic anthropology degree’s main goal is to facilitate change in society, while the goal of an academic anthropology degree is to train/teach others in the field. 

When it comes to what degree option to choose, that will come down to a student’s post-graduate goals. If a student wants to work in the field, a degree in applied anthropology might be best. For students who want to earn a PhD and teach, a general anthropology degree might be best. 

Coursework for the Easiest Master’s in Anthropology Online:

No matter what program you choose, you will inevitably take core coursework in anthropology. And depending on what degree you pursue, these core courses might vary. But generally, you can expect to take introductory-level graduate courses in general anthropology, then more targeted classes in your given subfield. Students can also customize their degree with anthropology-related or interdisciplinary electives.

Specific coursework could include: Introductory Anthropology, Anthropology and Archeology Theory, the Ancient Mayans, Osteology, Ethnographic Research, and classes in your specialization. 

best anthropology PhD

Specific Types of Anthropology You Could Study

Like most fields of study, students can choose to specialize in a certain area of anthropology that interests them, and in turn, pursue a variety of careers that match their skills and passions. Here are a few of the most common areas of emphasis for the graduate field of anthropology:

Cultural Anthropology:

If you are interested in different cultures, then you might like the sub-field of cultural anthropology. In this career, you will examine different cultures around the world, with the goal to examine and determine similarities and differences among cultures—their customs, rituals, practices, eating habits, and more. You can expect a lot of travel, fieldwork, and a detailed recording of your findings. A sub-field of cultural anthropology is medical anthropology, which examines the ways in which different cultures approach the medical well-being of their people.

Biological Anthropology:

Biological Anthropology is also known as physical anthropology and will critically examine humankind and primates, their evolutionary nature, and their behavioral and biological components over time. Students in this discipline will look at the physical human (or primate) body—bones, organs, and muscles—but not for medical purposes. Rather, biological anthropology studies the human body to analyze its survival and reproduction techniques.

Linguistic Anthropology:

A linguistic anthropologist will study the role of languages across various cultures and societies—and how that language shapes identities, groups, relationships, and more. 

Archeology:

This subfield of anthropology is the study of things of the past from people a long time ago. This could include studying objects, currencies, buildings, inscriptions, and more. 

Forensic Anthropology:

Forensic Anthropology is exactly as it sounds; it’s a subdiscipline of anthropology that will focus on the forensics of bodily remains. Within this field, students will need in-depth knowledge of human anatomy and knowledge of the legal field and crime scene investigation techniques. Professionals in this field could also be called upon to testify in court, providing important forensic evidence for cases. 

Other areas of specialization could include Evolutionary Anthropology, Environmental Anthropology, Ecological Anthropology, Visual Anthropology, Urban Anthropology, Business & Technology Anthropology, or Migration Anthropology.

Add-On Certifications: 

On top of or in lieu of adding on an area of concentration, students can also pursue a professional certification in a related area. These certifications can help you land a specific job you want or allow you to take targeted coursework in a certain area related to anthropology. 

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Prerequisites for the Fastest Master’s degree in Anthropology Online

In order to enter a Master’s degree program, students must have a Bachelor’s degree first. A degree in anthropology or an anthropology-related field like liberal arts or the humanities is preferred, but not mandatory. At a minimum, students will need a background in biology and the social sciences. For students who do not have a background in anthropology, some programs will offer a course prior to starting the graduate program. In addition, depending on the type of degree you are pursuing, you might be required to have some prerequisite coursework. For example, some Master of Arts programs require a prior foreign language component—or they might offer an exemption examination. Make sure to check the details of your desired program before you apply.

Length of Online Accelerated Graduate Anthropology programs

Each program will have different requirements, but typically, you can earn an affordable Master’s degree in Anthropology in 1-2 years. 

Full-time programs:

Full-time students can typically earn the degree in as little as 11-12 months, with a summer, fall, and spring semester. 

Part-time programs:

Some schools allow for students to take their classes on a part-time basis to allow for family or work obligations. Part-time students will typically take 2 classes per semester, and can complete their degree in about 2 years. 

1-year Online Master’s in Anthropology:

Maybe you’re thinking: “I want to advance my education, but I don’t want it to drag on.” Well, you’re in luck. With some research, you could find a 1-year Master’s in Anthropology Online. Many factors could affect the length of time it takes to get your degree like the program details, your prerequisites, whether you’re a full-time or part-time student, and more.

PhD applied anthropology

Internships and Fieldwork for the Quickest Online Master’s in Anthropology

Many affordable graduate degrees rely on internships and/or fieldwork for a real-world application component of the study, especially in Applied Anthropology degrees that are practice-oriented. They may not be required in a general Anthropology degree. Internship requirements will vary from program-to-program but will generally include a 180-hour experience. 

Internships will help you gain the necessary experience you might need as you apply for job positions post-graduation. They can also help you figure out what kinds of jobs you do or don’t want to pursue.

Culminating Work

All work in the anthropology graduate degree will culminate in a final component. Each program will differ. Some require a thesis, and some allow you to choose between a thesis, a final project, or a comprehensive exam. If you have a preference, make sure to check your program’s details to see what is required. 

About online learning

Often, online learning gets an inaccurate stigma: that online programs are less legitimate or less in quality and rigor. And that is just not the case. Many programs tout an extremely rigorous program and utilize the same coursework and faculty as their on-campus counterparts. Additionally, most online degrees do not indicate that they are earned online so that the diploma earned will be exactly like an on-campus student’s diploma. It is important to note that though online learning holds the same value as an on-campus program, it will take a certain amount of personal motivation. You will most likely have online student services to aid you in your pursuit, like online advisors, libraries, tutoring, and more. The length of online classes can vary, depending on your program. Some schools follow a traditional path, offering classes in the fall and spring (with shortened 7 or 8-week classes in the summer), and some offer shorter but more intense classes throughout the year. Classes will be presented either synchronously (at a specific day/time) or asynchronously (on your own time/schedule).

On-Campus Orientations

Some online anthropology programs do require an on-campus orientation or intensive, so make sure to check the details of the programs you are interested in to see what they require. The benefits of an on-campus orientation are meeting your professors, building comradery with other online students, and igniting your passion for anthropology.

Standardized Testing

Most graduate programs require an entry test like the GMAT or GRE for admission. Some schools are test-optional or do not require them at all. Check your school’s admission requirements for details. 

PhD anthropology requirements

To get admitted to an online accelerated Master’s in Anthropology degree program, you will need (all program entry requirements will vary):

• a Bachelor’s degree in anthropology or anthropology-related field
• required prerequisite coursework
• a minimum GPA requirement
• standardized test scores, if required
• letters of recommendation 
• entrance essay

*Remember, entrance to all programs will vary. Check your school’s program details to make sure you can meet the requirements before applying. 

Continuing Education:

There are PhD programs in Anthropology available for interested students, but note that it is not necessary for you to work in the anthropology field. However, getting one could give you an edge over other applicants in this competitive field. 

Anthropology Career Information:

Employment Outlook for Careers in Anthropology:

If you’re interested in the field of anthropology and archeology, you’re entering at a good time. In fact, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics agrees, citing that in the next 8 years, the field is expected to grow by 10% (which is faster than other professions). 

Possible Careers with an affordable Master’s degree in Anthropology:

The good news about this field is that the job market is vast. Depending on your interests, you’ll be able to find a career that works for your background and your passions. A graduate with a Master’s degree in Anthropology can find work research organizations, the government, and consulting firms. Additional jobs could be in museums, conservation work, academia, advertising, or health and social work. 

Possible Incomes with affordable Master’s degree in Anthropology:

According to data from the US Bureau of Labor and Statistics, here are some possible salaries for graduates (based on 2018 median pay):

• Anthropologists and Archeologists: $62,410 per year 
• Post-secondary teachers Anthropology and Archeology teachers: $94,080
• Economists: $104,340 per year
• Curators and Museum Workers: $48,400 per year
• Environmental Scientist/Specialist: $71,130 per year
• Survey Researchers: $57,700 per year
• Historians: $61,140 per year
• Geographers: $80,300 per year
• Sociologists: $82,050 per year

Professional Organizations for the Field of Anthropology:

Especially in a field like Anthropology, it is important to stay up to date on current research and professional practices. That’s exactly what being a part of a professional organization does. In addition, you’ll get to network with like-minded peers and get the support you need to succeed in your career. Here are a few anthropology-related professional organizations to check out. 

• American Anthropological Association (AAA)
• National Association for the Practice of Anthropology (NAPA)
• Society for Applied Anthropology (SFAA)