10 Best Online Anthropology Bachelor’s Degrees 2022

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Best Anthropology Online DegreesAn online degree in anthropology can be applied to almost any industry. You can work in the private sector, for a museum, or even plan to teach.

An online degree in anthropology is a wide-reaching degree that can be used to impact how our government and companies face global sustainability issues. You can also use your degree to help industries prepare for a healthier future. Immerse yourself in a study of the past and present to pinpoint how we can use our resources more efficiently with less stress on the planet. 

Online Schools Report 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.

What Is an Online Anthropology Degree?

An anthropology degree is all about human nature, human behavior, and how our past and present affect the future of our planet. Essentially, it is learning how past civilizations failed and succeeded. This information is key to nearly any career. It helps us create a more successful, sustainable world. Developing research skills, analysis methods, and problem-solving abilities empower anthropology majors to affect change on a local or global stage. Anthropology majors can also use their degrees to prepare for law school and post-graduate studies.

How Much Can You Earn With an Online Anthropology Degree?

According to the US Bureau of Labor and Statistics, geographers earn about $85,430 annually. Archaeologists’ salaries range depending on whether they also have a master’s degree or doctorate. In 2020, they made about $66,130. Conservationists made $64,010 with additional experience in evaluating and monitoring natural resources. Meanwhile, if your desire is to teach in college, you will need to secure a master’s degree in the field to gauge your potential earnings.

What Is Required For an Online Anthropology Degree?

Pursuing an online bachelor’s degree in anthropology starts with a high school transcript. Typically a GPA of 2.50 or above and either an SAT and/or ACT submission are required. Anthropology degrees offer skill-building like research, analysis, and problem-solving that is crucial for a variety of careers. If you have a specific job in mind, there are opportunities for choosing a minor, special concentration, or double major in many programs. If you have dreams of teaching at the university level, you need to pursue a master’s or a doctorate degree after your bachelor’s. Choosing a bachelor’s in anthropology can be a strategic choice for any student interested in a law degree. Some institutions offer specialized programs that combine the anthropology degree with pre-law work in a six-year program.

What Are the Best Online Anthropology Degrees?

OSR uses six data points: three school-wide and three program-specific. For school-wide, OSR uses Student Satisfaction, Admission Rates, and the number of programs the school offers online. For program-specific, OSR checks the Median Debt of graduates from that program, how many degrees are offered within that program’s umbrella department, and what percentage of students at that school graduated from that department.

The six statistics are displayed by each school. The sliding bar under each statistic represents how that school compares to other US institutions. “Not reported” means a school did not release that information to the US Department of Education. A more detailed description of the OSR process can be found on the methodology page

Best Online Anthropology Degrees FAQs

Is anthropology a study of the history or future of humanity?

The history of the human experience is a key part of the study of anthropology. However, the historical accounts of those experiences are more than just interesting stories. They offer benefits for our present and our future. Understanding how past and present cultures utilize(d) their land and resources in sustainable ways, is a key to modern ecology and sustainability.

In fact, more and more modern, socio-economic leaders and activists agree that it’s key for students to study anthropology.  According to Marc Brightman in his article, “Anthropology Is so Important all Children Should Learn It,” in theecologist.org, he says economists miss the importance of anthropology in creating modern sustainable living practices. He maintains that ancient cultures can teach us about the successful practices of making lands productive without depleting them.

Brightman said, “opening children’s eyes to the wonders of cultural diversity, and the different ways of living sustainably in the world ought surely to be a key aim of our educational system.” With the increasing impacts of climate change and shortages of food and resources, the value of anthropology will continue to increase. A degree in anthropology can be paired with nearly any other degree. You can also pair it as a minor area of study. Anthropology training in education can provide students with a more global view of their world. It can also train them to see how they can impact socio-economic changes in their career field.

Why does anthropology make a good pre-law bachelor’s degree choice? 

Since anthropology is the study of human evolution and how that impacts our environment, culture, and our world, it offers a broad knowledge base. Why is that important? According to discoveranthropology.org,By taking the time to study peoples’ lives in detail, anthropologists explore what makes us uniquely human. In doing so, anthropologists aim to increase our understanding of ourselves and of each other.”

Increasing our understanding of the people and cultures around us is beneficial for several career fields. But in particular, that study can benefit law students and especially lawyers. Part of studying past cultures is how the law and conflict management was successful and unsuccessful in other societies. The skills of research, analysis and critical thinking are a big part of anthropology. Those tools are also key for attorneys to develop. And finally, the study of regulations in a variety of fields prepares students to think legally. Attorney’s gather and massage data to argue regulations and precedents. Studying the laws that governed civilizations is a foundation for learning modern law.

An online degree in anthropology can offer students a broad basis for problem detection and solving. Whether students will launch immediately into the workforce or seek additional education, anthropology sets the stage for success.

Evaluate the universities reviewed above for the program that combines your passion with the best opportunity. Anthropology is specifically about learning from the past to make a better future for our planet and our civilization.

Arizona State University

Arizona State University

Quick Facts

  • Total of 120 credits required for completion 
  • High-speed internet and a laptop or desktop required
  • Minimum of 2.5 cumulative GPA required
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Acceptance Rate

63%

Programs Offered Online

45

Median Debt

$20,000

Programs in Department

4

Popularity at School

10%

100%OSR Score

A top online bachelor’s of art degree in anthropology from Arizona State University introduces students to the scientific study of human behavior and relationships. The study includes both historic and current research. You will learn about the major’s four main subfields of study:

  • evolutionary anthropology
  • bioarchaeology
  • sociocultural anthropology
  • archaeology

The subfields can be areas of focus for students but are not official concentrations. Virtual field trips are available. Students will also get access to the institution’s digital fossil collection. Students gain a scientific understanding of what makes us human. They are trained to see many perspectives, learn from the past and the present, and develop an appreciation for our differences.

University of Washington-Seattle Campus

University of Washington-Seattle Campus

Quick Facts

  • Five core courses required for completion 
  • ACT or SAT scores are optional 
  • Minimum 2.0 GPA required 
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Acceptance Rate

46%

Programs Offered Online

2

Median Debt

$15,904

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

14%

99%OSR Score

Students seeking an affordable online bachelor’s of art in integrated social services from the University of Washington train in how complex societies and groups interact and change. This degree major is tailored by the institution to be their anthropology degree. Students will find the curriculum focuses on:

  • social science theory in context 
  • introduction to portfolios in the social sciences
  • survey of social sciences methods
  • portfolio seminars in social sciences

In addition, graduates must complete a capstone project in integrated social sciences. It is worth five total credits. The seven areas of focus for this degree are considered thematic areas of interest. Those areas include:

  • information technology
  • populations and movements
  • conflict and cooperation
  • diversity and global justice
  • health and risk
  • inequalities and power relationships
  • societies and environments

Florida International University

Florida International University

Quick Facts

  • Total of 120 credits for completion
  • “C” average or higher in major courses
  • GPA of 2.0 or better required
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

76%

Acceptance Rate

54%

Programs Offered Online

26

Median Debt

$17,250

Programs in Department

3

Popularity at School

8%

98%OSR Score

The bachelor’s in anthropology global studies from Florida International University lets students explore the human experience. You will start with our evolution as a species and examine modern life around the globe. You’ll study explanations for how and why people view our world differently. Included in the work is how the differences come from discrimination, intolerance, and conflict. In return, they often continue to produce those same negative products. Required courses include:

  • gaining global perspectives 
  • world ethnographies 
  • geography of global change 
  • societies in the world

While an introduction to anthropology is recommended, it is not required. You will also immerse yourself in learning research methods. The anthropology degree program requires two three-credit hours classes in research methods and qualitative research methods.

University of Central Florida

University of Central Florida

Quick Facts

  • Total of 120 credits for completion 
  • Transfer students welcome
  • Minimum of 2.0 GPA
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

75%

Acceptance Rate

50%

Programs Offered Online

93

Median Debt

$17,750

Programs in Department

4

Popularity at School

4%

96%OSR Score

Earn a bachelor’s of art in anthropology from the University of Central Florida. You’ll receive a broad understanding of religion, culture, and languages around our world. That understanding will help you formulate the basis for how past elements brought us to where we are today. You will learn to conduct both research and fieldwork. From that work, you’ll understand the methods and theories that drive anthropology. Graduates will find anthropology degree jobs as a:

  • conservationist
  • product developer
  • archaeologist
  • consumer affairs investigator
  • public policy analyst
  • forensic anthropologist
  • forensic investigator

Anthropology used in any of these careers is how we apply history to our modern civilization. Merge your major study in anthropology with a minor in another specialty or even a double major. It allows you to focus your career preparation for a specific job after college.

Washington State University

Washington State

Quick Facts

  • Total of 180 credit hours for completion
  • Minor focuses available
  • Transfer up to 30 credit hours
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

73%

Acceptance Rate

73%

Programs Offered Online

13

Median Debt

$18,125

Programs in Department

2

Popularity at School

11%

94%OSR Score

Prepare for a career in the public or private sector with a bachelor’s in anthropology from Washington State University. Is a degree in anthropology a good degree? Well, the program addresses the fundamental questions about human nature, as well as our human origins. This knowledge benefits all careers. In your role as an anthropologist, you’ll study the interactions between our biology and the learned cultural heritages we all come from — both past and present. Discussions of the roles of nurture vs. nature will arise. You’ll address them as they apply to all aspects of:

  • economy
  • religion
  • politics
  • scientific endeavor

After graduation, pursue work in: 

  • government science
  • museum curation and administration
  • international business consulting
  • forensic anthropology

Students will learn research experience, critical thinking skills, and top communications skills.

University of Florida

UF

Quick Facts

  • Total of 120 semester credits required 
  • GPA of 2.5 overall required
  • Transfer students are welcome
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

77%

Acceptance Rate

42%

Programs Offered Online

15

Median Debt

$20,302

Programs Offered Online

Not reported

Popularity at School

11%

91%OSR Score

The University of Florida offers a bachelor’s of art in anthropology. It addresses the social and cultural results of our actions from a world perspective. Graduates learn to think globally. They learn to process and analyze to better problem-solve. This anthropology degree program has subfields of study in:

  • archaeology 
  • cultural anthropology
  • linguistics
  • biological anthropology

You’ll combine science with the humanities for this degree. By marrying the best of both fields, you’ll gain a broad perspective of how the past and present are connected. Thirty-four of the 120 degree credits required must be earned in Anthropology. Students will train for work in: 

  • government 
  • private business 
  • education 
  • healthcare
  • media

Oregon State University

Oregon State University

Quick Facts

  • Total of 180 credits required
  • Minimum 45 credits must be completed with Oregon State
  • Four specializations from which to choose
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

72%

Acceptance Rate

79%

Programs Offered Online

20

Median Debt

$27,000

Programs in Department

4

Popularity at School

7%

90%OSR Score

For a career in an anthropology-related field, earn a bachelor’s of art or science in anthropology from Oregon State University. Enter the field that can directly impact global issues. Use your degree to prepare to study law or teach. Or, specialize in:

  • general anthropology
  • archaeology 
  • cultural/linguistics
  • biocultural 

If you wonder if anthropology is a good degree, it provides a great globally impacting career foundation. The program’s archaeology specialization option requires a site-based field school study. The study is equivalent to 12 credit hours. Students will get hands-on experience by going on-location to do archaeology work. They’ll put into practice the research and data-gathering techniques necessary for proper historic analysis.

Troy University

Troy University

Quick Facts

  • Total of 36 major credit hours for completion 
  • Transfers welcome
  • Accelerated law school option available

 

Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

76%

Acceptance Rate

88%

Programs Offered Online

18

Median Debt

$24,399

Programs in Department

2

Popularity at School

8%

90%OSR Score

The online bachelor’s of anthropology from Troy University graduates students with hands-on experience in field and laboratory research. Field work includes exploring Native American artifacts at archaeological sites in North American and in the Near East.  In addition to field research and analysis, part-time job opportunities and internships are available. Coursework covers:

  • linguistics
  • cultural and archaeological anthropology  
  • physical archaeology

Students can make real-world connections that can lead to employment after graduation. Or, use your anthropology degree as the foundation for a master’s or doctorate degree. Students planning to study law can use a degree in anthropology to begin their pre-law work. Graduates can seek anthropology degree jobs with:

  • private archaeology companies
  • museums
  • federal, state, and local governmental agencies 
  • historical archives 
  • public and private historical sites

Colorado State University-Fort Collins

Colorado State University-Fort Collins

Quick Facts

  • Total of 120 total credits for completion 
  • Ten minors study fields from which to choose
  • Hands-on field opportunities at three field schools
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Acceptance Rate

83%

Programs Offered Online

8

Median Debt

$24,399

Programs in Department

2

Popularity at School

8%

81%OSR Score

Make a difference and a living all at the same time with a bachelor’s degree in anthropology. Attend Colorado State University for an affordable online bachelor’s degree. Develop an understanding of cultural diversity, learn how to serve “in-need” populations, and train to use critical thinking tools. A degree in anthropology offers a level of marketability to a graduate’s resume. This program teaches students a global perspective through the study of past civilizations. Career opportunities are available in:

  • corporations
  • nonprofits 
  • government  

Anthropology graduates can be an asset in nearly any industry. By developing an understanding of cultural differences, developing skills to work with underserved populations, and tools to think critically about your world, you can lead a variety of industries.

Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University

Quick Facts

  • Total of 120 credit hours required 
  • Earn a concentration in environmental sustainability
  • Transfer up to 90 credits 
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

75%

Acceptance Rate

78%

Programs Offered Online

43

Median Debt

$18,348

Programs in Department

3

Popularity at School

2%

81%OSR Score

For a top online school for anthropology degree, consider Southern New Hampshire University. With anthropology, students can gain a broad based understanding of human nature. That understanding can help graduates in a variety of career fields. Learning why humans behave the way they do, is useful in public and private sector jobs as well as government employment. Learn about topics like:

  • energy and society 
  • conservation biology 
  • sustainable communities 
  • environmental issues 

Graduates will analyze relationships and consider the human experience. They will be able to investigate, identify and promote positive cultural changes. A focus concentration in environmental sustainability is available. Students who chose that path are interested in protecting the planet.

Online Schools Report 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.