Anthropologists study human origin and
development through archaeology and social science. Online degree
programs in anthropology are offered at both the undergraduate and
graduate levels, depending on a prospective student's aspirations.
Overview of an Online Anthropology Associate's Degree Program
Students of online associate's degree programs in anthropology are introduced to the study of human patterns, history, culture and geography. Studies also concentrate on the history of civilization in different geographical locations. Prerequisites may include passing proficiency testis in the humanities, mathematics and the sciences, and specific courses may have additional requirements. Graduates are awarded an Associate of Arts (A.A.) in Anthropology.Program Information and Requirements
Online anthropology associate's programs generally consist of about 90 units of coursework including general education, core anthropology and elective classes. They take approximately two years of full-time attendance to complete. All coursework, communication, meetings and assignments are completed online. Testing is completed either online or through an approved proctor.Most classes do not have scheduled times of attendance; however, in most schools there are specific start and end dates for each course and students must log in to college systems a minimum number of times per week.
An online educational delivery system is used, and students must access it through a personal computer with a high-speed Internet connection. Schools provide students with an individual access ID to use for accessing the system while enrolled in the program.
List of Common Courses
Online associate's degree programs in anthropology follow the same guidelines as on-campus programs, requiring general education, core and elective coursework. Physical, cultural and historical classes related to anthropology are common to all programs.Physical Anthropology Course
This class introduces the theory of evolution and the development of primates and humans. Students also use approaches from paleoanthropology, biology, archeology and geology to learn about the roles physical characteristics, behavior and genetics play in human development.Cultural Anthropology Course
Human sociocultural concepts, methods and theories are introduced. The course examines themes of change, inequality, ethnicity, gender, political organization, languages and subsistence.Lost Civilizations Course
This course uses evidence from archeology to reconstruct prehistorical civilizations. . Students use different methods to explore urbanization, domestication, societies and civilization and also learn to interpret the results of archeological findings.Career Information for Graduates
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for anthropologists and archeologists was $53,460 in May of 2009. The BLS also reported that advanced degrees in the specialty provided more employment opportunities (www.bls.gov).Overview of an Online Anthropology Bachelor's Degree Program
Online bachelor's degree programs study both the humanistic and scientific aspects of anthropology in depth. Students also acquire skills in communication, critical thinking and group work. There are usually no educational prerequisites beyond a high school diploma, but those with previous college coursework may be eligible for advanced standing with less requirements for course completion. In some programs, students choose a track to earn either a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) or Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree. Some colleges also offer minors in anthropology to supplement degree programs in other fields.Program Information and Requirements
Depending on a student's current level of education, bachelor's degree programs in anthropology take from two to four years to complete online. Students in online programs often have advisors who help them develop course enrollment plans. All registration, materials, attendance and meetings are completed via the Internet.Most programs use an online course delivery system and provide students with a university e-mail address to use for program-related correspondence. Student services and library resources are available via a personal computer and the Web.
List of Common Courses
Bachelor's-degree-level coursework in anthropology explores cultures, history, archeology and civilization. Additional requirements for the B.A. degree include more liberal arts studies, while a B.S. degree program requires more in the area of science.Archeology Fundamentals Course
Archeological theory, fieldwork and laboratory assignments are the focus of this class. Students also learn fundamental principles in palaeoethnography, typology, excavation, surveying and chronological analysis.Anthropology in Human Culture Course
This course explores the religious, political, economic and family systems of human culture. Languages and technology are also studied in relation to human capabilities and various world cultures.Conflict in Developing Nations Course
This class studies conflicts in several developing geographical locations. The class focuses on analyzing the effects of rapid social and technological changes in different populations.Career Information for Graduates
In May of 2009, the BLS reported that a bachelor's degree in anthropology provided entry-level job opportunities in occupations such as research assistant or management trainee: however, positions were limited for undergraduates, with opportunities being more plentiful for holders of master's or doctoral degrees The BLS also reported that bachelor's degree holders may qualify for teaching positions at the elementary, middle school and high school levels (www.bls.gov).Overview of an Online Anthropology Master's Degree Program
Master's degree-level studies in anthropology focus on advanced casework and research studies. Both Master of Arts (M.A.) and Master of Science (M.S.) tracks in applied anthropology are available. Students may also choose optional specialty tracks such as migration and border studies, environmental and ecological anthropology, business anthropology, medical anthropology or anthropology in education. To be eligible for admission, students must possess a bachelor's degree, preferably with prior anthropology studies. Applications may require that students provide transcripts, graduate record examination scores, and letters of recommendation. They often need to submit a writing sample and statement of purpose and meet a grade point average (GPA) requirement for entry consideration.Program Information and Requirements
Depending on the master's degree track and specialty chosen, these programs may take two to three years to complete. Students usually have the option of enrolling on a part-time or full-time basis, though in some programs only full-time students are eligible for financial aid. All courses are generally available online, but some schools have occasional attendance requirements for events such as an orientation or culminating presentation.The online program includes a virtual community where students and faculty communicate and interact throughout the program. E-mail is also used for communication. Students also have access to a help desk for technical support via phone, e-mail or website communication.
List of Common Courses
Coursework in master's degree programs focuses on current research methods, prevailing theories and advanced cultural studies in anthropology. A capstone project demonstrating acquired research skills may also be required.Sociocultural Anthropology Course
The differences and common areas in human culture are surveyed and explored in this class. Advanced studies emphasizing sociocultural aspects are examined according to students' individual interests.Qualitative and Ethnographic Methods Course
Students learn how to use qualitative techniques in anthropological data collection, analysis, computer programs, grant writing and research. Ethical problems and ethnographic methods in the practice of anthropology are also explored.Quantitative Methods Course
This class teaches statistical research and testing skills in anthropology. Design, sampling, scaling, reliability, validity, significance and association are the topics of concentration.Career Information for Graduates
According to the BLS, employment in the social science field, including anthropologists, was expected to grow by 22 percent between 2008 and 2018. Also reported by the BLS in 2008, master's degree graduates were qualified for jobs in areas other than universities and colleges, but some positions did require a Ph.D. for employment in the field (www.bls.gov).Continuing Education and Certification Information
Ph.D. degree programs are available in anthropology; however, not in a completely online format. Students of Ph.D. programs typically must attend on-campus lab and lectures, as well as perform research and fieldwork in different anthropological settings.The GIS (Geography Information Systems) Certification Institute (GISCI) offers voluntary certification that may enhance professional credibility. Requirements include passing a written examination and meeting minimum levels of experience and education.
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