Should I just go ahead and get my B.A. in Anthropology or not?

Question

So here's the deal. I majored in Anthropology with a minor in Criminology, hoping to go into Forensics or something along those lines. Apparently, I didn't do enough research and after talking to someone, I found out that maybe if I wanted to go into Forensics, I probably should have majored in Biology instead of Anthropology. But the problem is that, I am only a couple semesters away from graduation and I really don't have the money or the time to start over and major in Biology. So should I just get my degree in Anthropology and specialize when I go to graduate school or what? I know that Anthropology is a broad field and there is a lot I can do.

I know that I probably need to talk with my advisors, but I am curious if anyone has been in this situation, and might have any advice.

And to be honest, I am not so sure anymore if I want to go into forensics. I am still thinking about that.

Sorry if this question is confusing.

Answer 1

Be sure that you take "human osteology" which is usually offered as an anthro course but is more biological (you've probably had it already).  If you can take the core bio courses as a minor, plus genetics, that would help you.  Also there are many other science courses which would look good on your resume.  The basic chemistry sequence and analytical chemistry are good.  You should probably pick up a stats class if you haven't already.  Talk to your advisor.  Even if you don't do forensics, these classes would make you look good for grad school (because they are difficult).

Answer 2

Yeah, graduate & then go with Biology. I have never known anyone who's gotten a real job with an Anthropology degree.

Answer 3

If you don't even know for sure that you want to do forensics, you might as well finish the degree you're working on now and then contemplate your next step after that.

Answer 4

Everyone is giving you cliche answers here. Look finish what you have started. Get the degree you earned it and you got it.

You want forensics. Maybe you should then apply to the FBI or the State Police or the Military Police. This would give you practical experience in forensics and legal work.

You sound like you are confused by your own question. You want to use your smarts for something close to forensics. Once you are a police officer, with money, a wage, benefits, health care, a real challenge then you can look at taking courses.

You see everyone thinks that Anthropology is practically useless but a study of humanity is clearly an advantage for a police officer. And I think you'd be a shoe in since it doesn't bother you to ask questions.

The other innovative area is in the military. Part of intelligence operations is knowing the structures of societies. The study of Anthropology  is a significant advantage for military planning and  operations. You also qualify for Military Police which is a career that parallels police work in the civilian sector but with the opportunity to broaden your experience into unusual situations.

You are doing things right. If you want forensics simply go ahead and apply to a police department, FBI or military police.

Answer 5

Continue moving forward since you are not sure what you want.  If forensics is not a passion, don't waste time in grad school working toward the area.  What interests you the most?  What excites you?  Don't put the cart before the horse.  Let your interests guide you and you won't be disappointed.

Answer 6

Yep, I think your friend was right about getting a Bsc with a major in Biology & minor in Criminology if you want to work in Forensics.

Saying that, surely Anthropology is very useful in some areas of forensics (like skeletons!).

If you're close to graduating it would seem sensible to get the degree and then, as you say, perhaps look at a graduate Msc (not sure what the USA eqiv. is) in your preferred area.

Maybe talking to you tutor would be good :)

Answer 7

Ok, so I have a bachelors in anthropology, and I have to go back to grad school too. My suggestion - finish it out. Go ahead and get the degree - maybe look into a bio minor. Just make your concentration biological anthro. Then in grad school look a master or phd in forensic anthro - I know LSU has a great program. Other than that - please talk to your advisor. They will know so much more than me!

Answer 8

I just got my degree in Anthropology and I am in graduate school studying forensics.  Yes, you do need a biology background, however, you can obtain that in grad school like I am doing.  Since you are so close to getting your degree I would go for it.  It is such an amazing experience to graduate with your B/A or B/S.  Also, don't let people tell you that you can't find jobs in anthropology.  I had jobs lined up in anthropology before I graduated.  Good luck to you in whatever you choose.