Best Online Anthropology Degrees
Updated January 3, 2024
What is Anthropology?
Anthropology students examine the historical, political, and biological factors that affect society, studying in areas like science, history, linguistics, and religion. Graduates of online bachelor's in anthropology programs enjoy strong job prospects.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that anthropology jobs will grow 5% between 2019-2029, which is faster than the national average. Additionally, the BLS reports that anthropologists and archaeologists made a median annual salary of $63,670 in 2019. However, salaries vary significantly by degree level, location, and job type.
Anthropologists can work in settings like research agencies, consulting firms, and museums. An anthropology bachelor's degree prepares graduates for both entry-level positions and more advanced degrees.
Featured Online Schools
Best Online Programs
We use trusted sources like
Peterson's Data and
the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
#1 Best Online Anthropology Degrees
University of Florida
Gainesville, FL - 4 years
- Online
The University of Florida, a public, four-year school in Gainesville, boasts a robust online learning community. The college offers 21 online bachelor's degree programs, reaching distance learners worldwide. Students looking for an anthropology-adjacent career can pursue study through the bachelor of arts in anthropology program at their own pace. Learners in the anthropology program benefit from flexible study, with the option to enroll full or part time.
During the anthropology program, students complete foundational and advanced coursework relevant to the anthropology field. These classes incorporate general and advanced knowledge applicable to anthropology careers. While enrolled, learners can customize their studies by choosing electives, minors, and degree concentrations.
The benefits of a bachelor's degree are varied, including increased job opportunities and higher earning potential. The school reports a median salary of $47,700 for graduates six years after completing a bachelor's degree. The average undergraduate pays $9,755 yearly in tuition and fees after aid. Prospective students should contact the anthropology department directly before applying, to discuss admission requirements, application materials, and other information.
University of Florida at a Glance:
Total Online Programs: 22
Online Bachelor's Programs: 21
Admission Rate: 32%
#2 Best Online Anthropology Degrees
University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Central Florida is a public, four-year institution providing competitive study across 88 bachelor's degree programs. The public school supports distance learners across 19 online bachelor's programs. Distance learners hoping to advance in the anthropology field will benefit from the college's BA in anthropology.
Students in the anthropology program complete coursework pertinent to the anthropology field. The program prioritizes flexibility in student learning. Students can work with their academic advisor to modify their classes to suit their career interests.
Undergraduate tuition at the school averages $19,810. Enrollees can access internal and external funding opportunities to defray the cost of their studies. At the college, students receive an average of $9,728 in financial aid.
University of Central Florida at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 41,097
Total Online Programs: 47
Online Bachelor's Programs: 19
Admission Rate: 44%
#3 Best Online Anthropology Degrees
Arizona State University
Scottsdale, AZ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Looking to earn a flexible online degree in anthropology? Consider Arizona State University. Of the school's programs, 54 are available to undergraduate students. The bachelor of arts in anthropology is an attractive option for students seeking to advance in the anthropology field. The anthropology program is a flexible option for working professionals and busy students.
During the anthropology program, students complete foundational and advanced coursework relevant to the field. Enrollees also take general education classes, gaining a well-rounded education. Majors choose electives, minors, and concentrations to customize their course of study.
A bachelor's degree connects graduates with numerous job opportunities and a higher earning potential. The institution reports a median salary of $42,200 earned by graduates six years after completing their studies. Anthropology students can expect to pay $14,568 in tuition and fees per year. Students hoping to gain admission to the anthropology program should connect with the anthropology department to discuss admission requirements and application materials.
Arizona State University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 44,167
Total Online Programs: 126
Online Bachelor's Programs: 54
Admission Rate: 64%
#4 Best Online Anthropology Degrees
Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, NH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit, four-year college offering a variety of competitive bachelor's degree programs. Distance learners can choose from 35 fully online bachelor's degree programs. Distance learners can enroll in the bachelor of arts in anthropology program to complete a college degree online.
The anthropology program balances rigor with flexibility. Students can work with their academic advisor to modify coursework to meet their academic and career goals. Enrollees can benefit from elective classes, minors, and other modifications.
Anthropology enrollees can expect to pay $30,756 in tuition. Distance learners at the accredited institution qualify for federal financial aid programs and other forms of aid.
Southern New Hampshire University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 106,762
Total Online Programs: 84
Online Bachelor's Programs: 35
Admission Rate: 88%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Accepted
#5 Best Online Anthropology Degrees
Oregon State University
Corvallis, OR - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students seeking advanced online study should consider one of Oregon State University's 50 online degree programs. Undergraduate students can choose from 22 online bachelor's programs. Students seeking competitive study in anthropology in a flexible modality can enroll in the college's online bachelor's in anthropology program. The anthropology program accommodates flexible study, so enrollees can learn at their own pace.
Enrollees complete both foundational and advanced coursework, granting them the knowledge and skills needed to advance in the anthropology field. Students also complete general education requirements, gaining additional knowledge. Enrollees can customize their degree by choosing electives, minors, and concentrations.
After earning their degree, graduates benefit from greater access to employment opportunities and higher earning potential. The institution reports a median salary of $42,700 earned by graduates six years after completing their studies. Though degree costs vary, undergraduate students pay an average of $19,273 per year in tuition and fees. Students can meet with the anthropology department directly to inquire about admission requirements, application materials, and more.
Oregon State University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 14,977
Total Online Programs: 50
Online Bachelor's Programs: 22
Admission Rate: 82%
#6 Best Online Anthropology Degrees
Troy University
Troy, AL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Alabama, Troy University enables online learning across 49 online degree programs. Undergraduate degree-seekers can choose from 19 online bachelor's degree programs. Learners looking for advanced, remote study relevant to the anthropology field can enroll in the school's online bachelor's in anthropology program. The anthropology program is a flexible option for working professionals and busy students.
Throughout their coursework, students gain industry-relevant knowledge through general and advanced classes. These courses equip students with anthropology-specific and broad knowledge and skills. Students can explore electives, minors, and concentrations with their academic advisor to individualize their degree.
A bachelor's degree greatly increases one's earning potential. At the college, students can expect to earn a median salary of $34,300 six years after graduation. Undergraduate students eligible for financial aid can expect to pay $12,951 in tuition and fees, on average. Prospective students can meet with the financial aid office to learn more about funding opportunities and eligibility requirements.
Troy University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 9,242
Total Online Programs: 49
Online Bachelor's Programs: 19
Admission Rate: 88%
#7 Best Online Anthropology Degrees
University of Houston-Clear Lake
Houston, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Houston-Clear Lake is a public, four-year college offering a variety of competitive bachelor's degree programs. The public school supports distance learners across five online bachelor's programs. The BS in anthropology provides a premier education.
Learners benefit from a rigorous curriculum that enables flexible study. Degree-seekers can work with their academic advisor to modify coursework to meet their academic and career goals. Enrollees can benefit from elective classes, minors, and other curriculum modifications.
Undergraduate anthropology students typically pay $19,176 in tuition. Enrollees can benefit from scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid through the college. Students at the university are awarded an average of $13,184 in financial aid.
University of Houston-Clear Lake at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 3,781
Total Online Programs: 13
Online Bachelor's Programs: 5
Admission Rate: 74%
#8 Best Online Anthropology Degrees
Colorado State University
Fort Collins, CO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Looking to earn a flexible online degree in anthropology? Consider Colorado State University. Of the school's online offerings, three provide an undergraduate-level education. From its main campus in Fort Collins, the school supports an online bachelor's in anthropology program. The anthropology program provides flexibility to learners from all walks of life through full- and part-time study options.
Enrollees complete both foundational and advanced coursework, granting them the knowledge and skills needed to advance in the anthropology field. Enrollees also complete general education classes, gaining a well-rounded education. Majors choose electives, minors, and concentrations to customize their course of study.
The value of a bachelor's degree is clear. Many graduates increase their job opportunities and earning potential. The institution reports a median salary of $39,900 earned by graduates six years after completing their studies. Though degree costs vary, undergraduate students pay an average of $16,793 per year in tuition and fees. Students interested in learning more about admission requirements, application materials, and financial aid opportunities should directly contact the anthropology department.
Colorado State University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 8,786
Total Online Programs: 39
Online Bachelor's Programs: 3
Admission Rate: 81%
#9 Best Online Anthropology Degrees
University of Massachusetts Dartmouth
North Dartmouth, MA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Massachusetts Dartmouth enables distance learning across 34 online degree programs. The college offers 17 online bachelor's degree programs, reaching 1,618 distance learners worldwide. Students seeking advanced online study in anthropology can enroll in the school's online BA in sociology and anthropology program. Students in the anthropology program can complete classes at their own pace, with the option for part-time study.
Throughout the program, students attend industry-relevant lectures while completing anthropology-specific coursework. Enrollees also attend general education classes to gain a well-rounded education. Enrollees can customize their studies by working with their academic advisor to choose electives, minors, and degree concentrations.
With a bachelor's degree, graduates increase their job opportunities and earning potential. The institution reports that graduates six years out from their degree earn a median salary of $41,100. Anthropology students can expect to pay $18,662 in tuition and fees per year. Prospective enrollees can learn more about the opportunities available at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth, including admission requirements and financial aid eligibility, by connecting with the anthropology department.
University of Massachusetts Dartmouth at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 1,618
Total Online Programs: 34
Online Bachelor's Programs: 17
Admission Rate: 75%
#10 Best Online Anthropology Degrees
Western Illinois University
Macomb, IL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
A leader in online education, Western Illinois University facilitates distance learning across 26 online degree programs. Of its online programs, 14 offer an undergraduate-level education. Learners looking for advanced, remote study relevant to the anthropology field can enroll in the school's online BA in anthropology program. The anthropology program is a flexible option for working professionals and busy students.
Throughout their coursework, students gain industry-relevant knowledge through foundational and advanced classes. Students also complete general education requirements, gaining additional knowledge. Enrollees can customize their degree by choosing electives, minors, and concentrations.
Graduates greatly benefit from their education, gaining access to more job opportunities and a higher earning potential. The median salary for graduates six years after their degree completion is $37,000, according to the college. The school reports that the average undergraduate pays $15,802 in tuition and fees yearly, after aid. Prospective students can meet with the financial aid office to learn more about funding opportunities and eligibility requirements.
Western Illinois University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 3,688
Total Online Programs: 26
Online Bachelor's Programs: 14
Admission Rate: 57%
Online Bachelor's in Anthropology Programs Ranking Guidelines
We selected the following degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation, including the school's reputation for effectively providing online programs.
What Is Anthropology?
Anthropology explores the social, cultural, and biological development of humans, incorporating areas like history, religion, biology, geography, politics, art, literature, and economics. The study of anthropology began with the ancient Greeks and Romans. Ancient historians traveled from country to country, describing the cultures and practices they saw. The Greeks and Romans used this information to better understand the roots of regional conflicts.
Anthropology explores the social, cultural, and biological development of humans, incorporating areas like history, religion, biology, geography, politics, art, literature, and economics.
Anthropology expanded in medieval times with the growth of trade. Accounts from explorers like Marco Polo gave insight into the cultural development of faraway lands. Modern anthropology started with the Age of Enlightenment, which emphasized the use of reason and the scientific method.
Today, professionals can find anthropology jobs in areas like education, government, museum curation, and law. Many anthropologists work in an office, but some professionals — such as researchers and archaeologists — may work in the field.
What Is a Bachelor's in Anthropology Degree?
Students pursuing an online bachelor's degree in anthropology gain skills in research, critical thinking, organization, communication, and problem-solving. They typically take general education, anthropology, and elective courses. The best anthropology programs offer concentrations that allow students to specialize in an area of anthropology such as archaeology, cultural anthropology, or forensic anthropology.
Archeology examines the discovery and preservation of historical artifacts. Students learn how materials found during archaeological excavations lead to a better understanding of specific periods, places, events, or cultures.
Cultural anthropology — a sub-section of anthropology — studies the development of human culture. Learners examine how factors like art, war, politics, and literature impact human growth. Forensic anthropology studies human remains to determine things like cause and time of death. Many forensic anthropology graduates find work in law enforcement.
Choosing an Online Bachelor's in Anthropology Program
When researching prospective online bachelor's in anthropology programs, students should consider factors like a program's length, cost, and graduation requirements. Most anthropology bachelor's degrees take four years of full-time study to complete. However, many anthropology programs also offer accelerated learning tracks that allow students to graduate faster.
Tuition costs vary by institution. Typically, public schools cost less than private schools. Additionally, some schools offer different tuition rates for in-state versus out-of-state students, while other schools allow all online students to pay in-state tuition regardless of residency.
Online students should research all of a prospective program's requirements. Some online programs have in-person requirements, such as internships or on-campus residencies. Students should ensure that they can meet all requirements before committing to a program.
Prospective students can learn more about online anthropology degrees through this link.
What Will I Learn in an Online Bachelor's in Anthropology Program?
Students taking anthropology courses online study topics like archeology, history, sociology, and religion. Classes vary by program, but the following list outlines common bachelor's in anthropology courses.
- Introduction to Anthropology: This class explores the main pillars of anthropology, including linguistics, archeology, biology, and history. Students gain a foundational understanding of cultural and societal development, studying the diversity of human thought and language. The class can help students determine which anthropology subdiscipline most interests them.
- World Geography: World geography examines current and historical events through a geospatial lens. Students learn about the impact of geographical borders on cultural and linguistic development. They may also explore regional surveys of physical environments and participate in research projects.
- Religions of the World: This course examines the origins and beliefs of various religions, including how different religious beliefs intersect. Learners study the role of religious belief in shaping history and culture. Many professors incorporate testimonials from current religious practitioners.
- Archaeology: Archaeology courses examine foundational tools and techniques for unearthing artifacts. Students learn about dating and preserving archaeological discoveries. Most archeology courses explore principles of stratigraphy, carbon dating, and cross-dating. Some courses include a lab, giving students practical experience with archaeological practices.
- Biological Anthropology: Biological anthropology explores evolutionary theory and human adaptability. Potential topics include genetics, paleontology, and comparative anatomy. Students may examine fossils to study human development through history.
Accreditation for Online Bachelor's in Anthropology Degrees
When researching prospective schools, students should look for accreditation. Accreditation indicates that a school meets high standards with respect to faculty qualifications, academic rigor, and student learning outcomes. Schools may receive regional or national accreditation. Regional accreditation typically applies to nonprofit, degree-granting institutions, while national accreditation applies to for-profit, vocational and technical schools. Regional accreditation is generally considered the more prestigious of the two.
Accreditation benefits students in several ways. For example, only students at accredited schools qualify for federal financial aid, and many schools only recognize and accept credits from accredited institutions. Additionally, many employers prefer to hire candidates with an accredited degree.
Programs within a school, such as social work, business, and nursing programs, may also receive accreditation. At this time, no programmatic accrediting agency exists for anthropology programs, so students should look for regionally accredited schools.
The U.S. Department of Education (ED) and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) oversee accrediting bodies. Students can find a school's accreditation status through the ED accreditation database and the CHEA accreditation directory.
Anthropology Jobs
The best anthropology programs prepare students for careers in education, museum curation, and research. Some advanced positions require a master's or doctoral degree. We cover several common anthropology jobs and potential salaries below.
Anthropologists and Archaeologists
| Median Salary: $63,670 | Projected Job Growth: 5% |
|---|
Anthropologists research the social and cultural development of humankind, working to recover and preserve artifacts and structures from the past. They may work in postsecondary institutions, museums, consulting agencies, or out in the field. Archaeologists working in the field often travel or live abroad.
Anthropologists and archaeologists typically need a master's degree. More advanced positions may require a doctorate.
Museum Curators
| Median Salary: $49,850 | Projected Job Growth: 11% |
|---|
Museum curators manage current museum exhibits, design new exhibits, and create educational displays. They may also oversee the buying and selling of artwork and authenticate historical artifacts. Museum curators need exceptional organizational skills. These professionals often manage teams of people and oversee exhibit installations.
Most museum curator positions require a master's degree. However, some museums might hire professionals with a bachelor's degree and significant experience.
College Professors
| Median Salary: $79,540 | Projected Job Growth: 9% |
|---|
College professors create curricula, present material, and assess student learning. They may teach introductory or advanced classes. Many professors also conduct research. After finishing their research, professors may publish their findings in books or scholarly articles. They may also present their findings at academic conferences.
College professors typically need a doctoral degree in their field. Junior or community colleges may accept instructors with a master's degree.
High School Teachers
| Median Salary: $61,660 | Projected Job Growth: 4% |
|---|
High school teachers instruct high school students on particular subjects, like math, political science, and English. They must plan lessons aligned with administrative, state, and national curriculum objectives; support students with academic strengths and weaknesses; and assess student learning through exams, projects, and other learning materials.
High school teachers typically need at least a bachelor's degree. Public school educators and some private school teachers also need a teaching certificate to practice. Those with an anthropology degree likely teach humanities subjects, like history or political science.
Archivists
| Median Salary: $49,850 | Projected Job Growth: 11% |
|---|
Archivists research and maintain historical documents. They need attention to detail, extensive knowledge of history, and meticulous care when handling old manuscripts. Archivists may work for museums, libraries, governmental agencies, or educational institutions. They may work behind the scenes, researching and preserving documents, or with the public, providing educational instruction or tours.
Most archivists need a bachelor's degree. Some employers require a master's degree and certification.
Survey Researchers
| Median Salary: $59,170 | Projected Job Growth: -4% |
|---|
Survey researchers design and conduct surveys to take a statistical sampling of public opinions on a specific issue. They may create questionnaires; conduct in-person, phone, or online interviews; or assemble focus groups. These professionals often use software to analyze their results and draw conclusions.
Entry-level positions may only require a bachelor's degree. More advanced positions may require a graduate degree.
Anthropology Frequently Asked Questions
What is Anthropology?
Anthropology studies the cultural and social development of society, examining topics like archeology, biology, history, and linguistics. Anthropologists often aid in historical preservation and environmental conservation efforts.
What is a Bachelor's in Anthropology Degree?
Anthropology bachelor's degrees examine societal development from scientific and humanistic perspectives. The degree includes a mix of general education and anthropology courses and typically takes four years of full-time study to complete.
What Degree is Needed for Anthropology?
Degree requirements vary by career. Entry-level anthropology jobs in geography and environmental science typically require a bachelor's degree. Postsecondary educators and museum curators often need a master's degree in anthropology.
How Much Money Can You Make With an Anthropology Degree?
Salaries differ by career, degree level, and location. According to the BLS, anthropology salaries ranged from $48,400-$104,340 in 2018.
Where Is the Best Place to Study Anthropology?
The best place to study anthropology depends on a student's needs and goals. Prospective learners should consider factors like cost, available specializations, degree length, and online resources when searching for the best anthropology programs.
What Can I Do with a BS in Anthropology?
An anthropology bachelor's degree prepares students for entry-level jobs in government, business, education, and human services. Graduates can work in roles such as grant writer, archivist, high school teacher, and public policy analyst.
Learn more, do more.
More topic-relevant resources to expand your knowledge.
Popular with our students.
Highly informative resources to keep your education journey on track.
Take the next step toward your future with online learning.
Discover schools with the programs and courses you’re interested in, and start learning today.
