Have you ever wondered what it would be like to study and understand different cultures, societies, and human behaviour? If the idea of exploring the world through a unique lens piques your interest, then anthropology might just be the perfect field for you.
In this article, we will guide you through "How To Become An Anthropologist" and help you navigate through the steps towards pursuing a career in this fascinating discipline.
Who is an Anthropologist?
Anthropology is the study of human societies, cultures, and their development over time. As an anthropologist, you would delve into various aspects of human life, such as language, social structures, beliefs, and practices. Your role would involve conducting fieldwork, interviews, and research to gain insights into different cultures and societies.
Skills required to be an anthropologist
To become an anthropologist, you need a curious mind and a passion for understanding diverse human experiences. You should possess excellent observation skills, critical thinking abilities, and cross-cultural awareness. Effective communication skills are also crucial, as you will often be interacting with individuals from different backgrounds.
Job Roles and Potential Salaries
In today's globalised world, where cultural diversity is celebrated and understanding different perspectives is crucial, the role of anthropologists has become increasingly important. Some of these roles include:
1. Academic Researcher: In this role, you would work in universities or research institutions, conducting ethnographic studies and publishing scholarly articles. You may also teach anthropology courses. The average starting salary for an entry-level academic researcher is around ₹4-6 lakhs per year.
2. Cultural Resource Manager: As a cultural resource manager, you would assess the impact of development projects on cultural heritage sites and recommend measures for their preservation. Cultural resource managers can earn between ₹6-8 lakhs annually at the start of their careers.
3. Applied Anthropologist: Applied anthropologists work in diverse settings, such as NGOs, government agencies, or corporations, to solve real-world problems by applying anthropological knowledge. Applied anthropologists earn approximately ₹5-7 lakhs per year initially.
4. Museum Curator: In this role, you would manage collections of artefacts and develop exhibits that showcase different cultures' historical significance. Museum curators earn an average starting salary of ₹4-6 lakhs per year.
5. Forensic Anthropologist: Forensic anthropologists help identify human remains using skeletal analysis techniques in criminal investigations or mass disasters. Forensic anthropologists can earn between ₹6-8 lakhs annually at the beginning of their careers.
Education Options for Anthropologists
To embark on the path to becoming an anthropologist, you can pursue a Bachelor's degree in Anthropology after completing your 12th-grade exams. Both science and humanities stream students are eligible for this degree.
Popular undergraduate degrees for aspiring anthropologists include:
- B.A. in Anthropology: This is a three-year programme that focuses on understanding human societies, cultures, and social relationships.
- B.Sc. in Anthropology: This degree programme emphasises the scientific study of humans, including our physical evolution and biological variations.
Key courses and skills you should focus on during your undergraduate studies include cultural anthropology, physical anthropology, archaeological methods, research methodologies, data analysis, and ethnographic fieldwork.
Further Education Options
After completing a Bachelor's degree in Anthropology or a related field, you can pursue a Master's degree to enhance your knowledge and expertise further.
Popular postgraduate courses for aspiring anthropologists include:
- M.A./M.Sc. in Anthropology
- M.Phil. in Anthropology
For those aspiring to delve deeper into the field of anthropology and contribute to its knowledge base through original research, pursuing a Ph.D. in Anthropology is recommended. This programme enables students to conduct extensive research within their chosen specialisation.
Key courses and skills during doctoral studies include conducting fieldwork, publishing research papers, presenting at conferences, and refining analytical and research skills.
Specialisations in Anthropology
Cultural Anthropology: Cultural anthropology focuses on understanding the beliefs, practises, customs, and social structures of different societies. As a cultural anthropologist, you may specialise in areas such as:
- Gender studies
- Urban anthropology
- Indigenous cultures
- Political anthropology
Biological Anthropology: Biological anthropology examines human evolution, variation, genetics, and primatology. Specialisations within biological anthropology include:
- Human skeletal biology
- Forensic anthropology
- Medical anthropology
- Primatology
Archaeological Anthropology: Archaeological anthropology involves studying past human civilizations through material remains. Specialisations within this field include:
- Prehistoric archaeology
- Historical archaeology
- Underwater archaeology
- Cultural heritage management
Certification Courses To Aid Upskilling
Certification courses are essential for upskilling in the field of anthropology, as they provide focused knowledge and practical skills that complement your academic qualifications.
Popular upskilling and certification programmes in India for aspiring anthropologists include:
- Ethnographic Fieldwork: This course equips you with the necessary skills to conduct effective fieldwork and ethnographic research.
- Data Analysis in Anthropology: This programme helps you develop proficiency in data analysis techniques specific to anthropological research.
- Professional Certifications: Earning professional certifications in areas like cultural heritage management or qualitative data analysis can enhance your employability and demonstrate expertise.
By upskilling, you not only stay relevant in a rapidly evolving field but also gain a competitive edge in the job market, increasing your chances of securing rewarding career opportunities.
Career Paths in Anthropology
As an anthropologist, you have the opportunity to pursue various career paths based on your interests and specialisations. Here are some popular career options:
- Academic Research
- Cultural Resource Management
- Consulting
- Developmental Aid
- Public Policy
Anthropology Industry Growth
Anthropology has witnessed steady growth as an industry in India over the years. With increasing awareness about the importance of cultural preservation, diversity, and sustainable development, the demand for anthropologists has been on the rise.
Looking ahead, there are several potential trends and developments that could shape the future of anthropology in India. Here are a few:
- Digital Anthropology
- Applied Anthropology
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration
- Environmental Anthropology
Kickstart Your Career in Anthropology
In conclusion, embarking on a career in anthropology can open up a world of exciting opportunities and personal growth.
Remember, becoming an anthropologist requires a combination of education, skills, and experience. By taking the first step towards upskilling and seeking guidance from experts at WIZR, you can embark on a rewarding career in anthropology.
FAQs
1. Is anthropology a high-demand job in India?
Yes, there is growing demand for anthropologists in India due to increased focus on sustainable development, social impact assessment projects, and cultural preservation initiatives.
2. Where do anthropologists work?
Anthropologists work in various sectors, including government agencies, NGOs, research organisations, universities, museums, and international organisations like UNESCO or WHO.
3. Is a PhD mandatory to become an anthropologist?
While a PhD is not mandatory for all positions, having one often enhances career prospects and opens up opportunities for research and teaching roles.
4. Which countries have a higher demand for anthropologists?
Countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada have high demand for anthropologists due to their robust academic institutions and diverse cultural landscapes.
5. Are there any scholarships available for studying anthropology?
Yes! Many universities and research institutes offer scholarships and grants for students pursuing degrees in anthropology. Additionally, government organisations and NGOs also provide funding opportunities for research projects in this field.
