What outside of traditional work, can I do with an Anthropology degree?

Question

People seemed to get my previous question at first. Then, I got all kinds of advice on anthropology jobs and it was apparent that I didn't make my point very well. Because I am a mother with 3 young kids I have stepped away from my previous goals in anthropology. I have heard of others using their anthropology degree in other fields. I am curious to know what kinds of jobs are out there for someone who has my degree (because I still want to use it), but I only want ideas outside of traditional anthropology jobs.

Answer 1

Isn't anthropology amazing! I almost changed my major, I was so fascinated with it.

Teaching? Writing? Public Affairs? Lifestyles coach?Cultures Trainer at a corporation that does international business.

Getting a master's so you can get a doctorate.

Answer 2

Of course, there are many jobs where all that matters is a degree of some kind.  But I wonder if anyone responded to your earlier email with a mention of cultural resource management?  Most area have people who can help them assess the importance of everything from old houses to ancient burial sites.  You could even start your own business and consult in this area, giving you control over your schedule.  

Good luck to you.

Answer 3

As I stated in my last answer there is not much out there outside of traditional work in the field of anthropology for somebody that just has a BA.  The probability of you actually finding a job in anthropology with a BA that is outside of "tradition" is low.  The most you will probably be able to do is work in an office doing clerical work.  However the jobs I listed last time were anthropological office jobs.  Either find a job doing something else or go to grad school.  BTW, asking the same question multiple times goes against the YA Community Guidelines.

Answer 4

Straight up, you probably would like a job with health benifits and decent hours. I am also a single mom, ba in anthro, pursuing the masters, a museum, big or small will fit you bill, schedule and you still have the option of going to school since most are related to thier state colleges, and if not, they are at least state "parks" and still pay decent.

Answer 5

I have an Anthropology degree. I am the Director of Marketing for my company. I beleive my degree allowed to do this job because: 1) anthro students do a massive amount of reading and can formulate small pieces of information into a coherent system (whether it be societal anaylsis or a business plan) 2) a trained anthropologist can recognize a pitfalls of being a participant observer and can remove themselves from office (or other) discussions to observe to dynamics 3) we have great experience at writing huge detailed papers about less than huge events.

I would recommend advertising, PR, Marketing, or HR. Some major employers are starting to recognize the value of an Anthro degree.

Answer 6

Anthropology is, after all, the study of people.  Therefore, it is probably the most versatile degree there is.  What job exists that you DON'T work with people?  The trick is "selling" your degree to the people who make the decisions about the job you want.  I would think any job within the social sciences is an easy sell. I have degree in Anthropology and I work as the administrator of a nonprofit organization dedicated to family literacy.   I was able to convince the Board of Directors that with my research background, writing ability, and appreciation of cultural diversity, I was the best candidate for the position.  They apparently agreed, and here I am.   I now have a job that has a flexible schedule, pays pretty well, allows me time to spend with my kids (I'm a single mom of 2), appreciates the sanctity of my family, and fulfills me as a person.