Most Affordable Accelerated Online Anthropology Masters

A ranking of the Most Affordable Accelerated Online Anthropology Masters. The ranking was determined by tuition cost, program quality, and completion time:

  • Online Master of Arts in Anthropology
  • Online Master of Arts in Theological and Cultural Anthropology
  • Online Master’s in Arts in Applied Anthropology
  • Online Master of Arts in Intercultural Studies
  • Online Master of Arts in Global Studies
  • Online Master’s in Social Sciences
  • Online Master’s in Cultural and Heritage Resource Management
  • Online Master of Arts in Global Development and Justice
  • Online MA in Theological Studies: Intercultural Leadership
  • Online Master of Education in Intercultural Studies

Featured Schools:

Methodology

Time to Completion

  • Less Than 2 Years: 1 point
  • 20 Months or Less: 2 points
  • 18 Months or Less: 3 points
  • 16 Months or Less: 4 points
  • 14 Months or Less: 5 points
  • 12 Months or Less: 6 points

Graduate Tuition

  • Less Than $20,000: 1 point
  • Less Than $15,000: 2 points
  • Less Than $10,000: 3 points
  • Less Than $5,000: 4 points

Accreditation (School-Wide and Program-Specific) – 1 point per item

Presence of an Online Student Support Network– 1 point

Rating and Ranking the Top Online Accelerated Master of Anthropology Programs

To develop this ranking, our editors searched the web for online master’s in anthropology programs that can be completed in two years or less. This search yielded an initial pool of 31 schools/programs. Next, we applied a tuition filter, eliminating any program associated with educational expenses of over $25,000 per year. Finally, we applied the rating and ranking methodology above using data from the National Center for Education Statistics and each program’s website. In the case of a tie, the more economical offering was ranked higher.

#20—Fuller Theological Seminary

Pasadena, California

MA in Intercultural Studies Online

Website
Minimum Time to Completion: 2 Years
Points: 3

The accelerated online master of anthropology offering from Fuller Theological Seminary is a versatile MA in Intercultural Studies that can be completed fully online or via a blended learning format. Required coursework for the degree includes classes such as:

  • The Making of Global Christianity
  • Christian Anthropology from the Margins
  • Theology of Mission

The degree plan is customizable in that students may strategically select elective courses around an area of interest. Fuller Theological Seminary is institutionally accredited by both the WASC Senior College and University Commission and the Commission on Accrediting of the Association of Theological Schools.
Graduate Tuition: $20,400

#19—Messiah University

Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania

Online Master of Education: Intercultural Studies

Website
Minimum Time to Completion: 2 Years
Points: 4

The accelerated anthropology master’s online program from Messiah University is a unique Master of Education degree plan emphasizing Intercultural Studies. Once enrolled, students will take core courses such as:

  • Educational Leadership
  • Advanced Socio-Cultural Perspectives on Education
  • Effective Practices for Every Learner

Upon completion of core coursework, students will take additional classes in the intercultural studies concentration, including:

  • World Religions and Mission
  • Second Language Acquisition: Theories and Context
  • Missions and Biblical Theology

This program is offered in collaboration with Asbury Theological Seminary. The Middle States Commission on Higher Education has accredited Messiah University to award this online master’s in anthropology. U.S. News & World Report has ranked the school among the top 20 regional universities in the North.
Graduate Tuition: $12,420

#18—Portland State University

Portland, Oregon

Master’s in Anthropology Online

Website
Minimum Time to Completion: 2 Years
Points: 4

The accelerated online master’s degree program from Portland State University is a fully customizable option that can be completed entirely online or via a hybrid format. Students have the opportunity to concentrate their studies in various sub-fields of anthropology, including:

  • Archaeology
  • Biological Anthropology
  • Sociocultural Anthropology

Sample course titles comprising the curriculum for the program include:

  • Applied Anthropology
  • Research Methods in Social and Cultural Anthropology
  • Archaeological Field Methods
  • Gender in Cross-Cultural Perspective

Successful completion of the program also requires either a thesis, internship, or a comprehensive examination. The Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities has accredited Portland State to award this master’s degree in anthropology online.
Graduate Tuition: $11,718

#17—Houston Baptist University

Houston, Texas

Online Intercultural Studies MA

Website
Minimum Time to Completion: 2 Years
Points: 4

The accelerated master’s in anthropology online option from Houston Baptist University is a MA in Intercultural Studies. The program emphasizes Christianity and features a comprehensive 36-credit hour curriculum. Enrolled students will take core courses such as:

  • Modern and Post-Modern Culture
  • Intercultural Communication and Leadership
  • Apologetics Research and Writing
  • Introduction to Missions

The remainder of the curriculum is comprised of elective classes like:

  • Philosophy of Religion: Faith and Reason
  • Film, The Visual Arts, and Apologetics
  • Theistic Arguments

This program is offered fully online. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges has accredited HBU to award this graduate degree in anthropology. U.S. News & World Report has ranked it among the 65 best regional universities in the West.
Graduate Tuition: $10,350

#16—Southern California Seminary

El Cajon, California

Online Master of Arts in Intercultural Studies

Website
Minimum Time to Completion: 20 Months
Points: 5

The 36-credit hour accelerated online master’s of anthropology program from Southern California Seminary is a MA in Intercultural Studies degree plan designed to be completed within 20 to 24 months. In addition to core courses in Biblical Studies and Interdisciplinary Skills, students will also take major-specific classes in Intercultural Studies, including:

  • Conflict Resolution
  • Theological Foundations of Missions
  • Christian Ethics and Leadership

An intercultural field study and an ethnography project are also required for successful program completion. Southern California Seminary holds institutional accreditation from the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools Accreditation Commission.
Graduate Tuition: $15,588

#15—The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary

Louisville, Kentucky

Online Master of Arts in Theological Studies: Intercultural Leadership

Website
Minimum Time to Completion: 2 Years
Points: 5

The unique accelerated online master of anthropology program from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary is a Master of Arts in Theological Studies with a concentration in Intercultural Leadership. Available both online and on-campus, the program requires a minimum of 48 credit hours of coursework. Sample course titles comprising the program’s curriculum include:

  • Language Learning for Missionaries
  • Cultural Acquisition
  • World Religions and Christian Mission
  • Leadership in Intercultural Contexts

The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary is accredited by both the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges and the Commission on Accrediting of the Association of Theological Schools.
Graduate Tuition: $11,124

#14—Johnson University

Knoxville, Tennessee

Online Master of Intercultural Studies

Website
Minimum Time to Completion: 2 Years
Points: 5

The accelerated online anthropology master’s offering from Johnson University is a highly flexible MA in Intercultural Studies program featuring five distinct concentrations:

  • Community Development
  • Cross- Cultural Engagement
  • Cross- Cultural Church Planning
  • Translation
  • Customized

The latter specialization option enables students to tailor the curriculum to meet their own unique interests and career goals. Sample course titles associated with the program include:

  • Global Philosophy and Religion
  • Missiological Anthropology
  • Living and Working in the Muslim World

Johnson University is accredited by both the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges and the Commission on Accreditation of the Association for Biblical Higher Education.
Graduate Tuition: $10,350

#13—Oklahoma Baptist University

Shawnee, Oklahoma

Online Master of Arts in Intercultural Studies

Website
Minimum Time to Completion: 2 Years
Points: 5

The accelerated online master of anthropology option from Oklahoma Baptist University is a fully online MA in Intercultural Studies. The 36-credit hour curriculum for the program includes course titles such as:

  • Ethnographic Research
  • Intercultural Communication
  • Contemporary Missiology and Intercultural Contexts
  • World Religions and Non-Christian Worldviews

The Higher Learning Commission has accredited Oklahoma Baptist University to award this online graduate degree in anthropological studies. The school has been ranked among the top 10 regional universities in the West by U.S. News & World Report.

Graduate Tuition: $9,900

#12—Evangel University-Assemblies of God Theological Seminary (TIE)

Springfield, Missouri

Online MA Intercultural Studies

Website
Minimum Time to Completion: 2 Years
Points: 5

The accelerated master’s in anthropology online program from Evangel University- Assemblies of God Theological Seminary is comprehensive and customizable. The 48-credit hour curriculum for the program can be centered around one of four available concentrations:

  • Islamic Studies
  • Global Missions
  • Member Care
  • Intercultural Studies

Enrolled students may take courses such as the following:

  • World Christianity
  • Anthropology and Communication Theological Perspective
  • Contextualized Theology

The Higher Learning Commission has accredited Evangel University to award this online graduate degree in anthropological studies. The school has been ranked among the top regional universities in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report.
Graduate Tuition: $9,450

#12—Nazarene Theological Seminary (TIE)

Kansas City, Missouri

Online Intercultural Studies MA


Minimum Time to Completion: 2 Years
Points: 5

Nazarene Theological Seminary offers a 48-credit hour online Master of Arts in Intercultural Studies program that can be completed mostly online. Four week-long residencies are required for the program, however. The curriculum for the program is comprised of three basic elements:

  • General Core Courses
  • Intercultural Studies Requirements
  • Elective Classes

Admission to the program requires a graduate degree and an undergraduate GPA of at least 2.5. Nazarene Theological Seminary is accredited by the Commission on Accrediting of the Association of Theological Schools.
Graduate Tuition: $9,450

#11—Humboldt State University

Arcata, California

Online MA in Applied Anthropology

Website
Minimum Time to Completion: 2 Years
Points: 5

The online accelerated master of anthropology program from Humboldt State University is a flexible online MA in Applied Anthropology. The program features both full-time and part-time tracks, and the vast majority of the program can be completed online. Students are required to attend campus for a mandatory summer institute, however. Core courses comprising the program’s curriculum include:

  • Theory in Applied Anthropology
  • Anthropology Careers and Management Strategy
  • Methods in Applied Anthropology

Students have options when it comes to the culminating element required for the program. These include a thesis, research project, or comprehensive examination, for instance. Humboldt State is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission to award this graduate degree in anthropology. The school has been ranked among the top 40 regional universities in the West by U.S. News & World Report.
Graduate Tuition: $7,176

#10—University of North Texas

Denton, Texas

Online Master’s in Applied Anthropology

Website
Minimum Time to Completion: 2 Years
Points: 5

The accelerated online master’s in anthropology option from the University of North Texas is a graduate degree program in Applied Anthropology featuring both MA and MS tracks. The 36-credit hour curriculum for the program features courses such as:

  • Anthropological Thought and Praxis
  • Ethnographic and Qualitative Methods
  • Quantitative Methods in Anthropology

Both full-time and part-time tracks are available to accommodate student schedules. UNT holds its institutional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. U.S. News & World Report has recognized the school as a top national university.

Graduate Tuition: $5,900

#9—Columbia International University

Columbia, South Carolina

Online MA in Intercultural Studies

Website
Minimum Time to Completion: 12 Months
Points: 6

The accelerated online master’s in anthropology offering from Columbia International is a MA in Intercultural Studies program that can be completed in just one year. The 30-credit hour degree plan is offered on campus or online and prepares students to work in:

  • Church service
  • Missions
  • Business
  • The military
  • Academia
  • Government

Research and internship opportunities are available to students who desire a more experiential learning experience. Columbia International University is accredited by both the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges and the Association for Biblical Higher Education Commission on Accreditation. U.S. News & World Report has ranked the school among the top 50 regional universities in the South.
Graduate Tuition: $9,360

#8—Bob Jones University

Greenville, South Carolina

Online Master of Intercultural Studies

Website
Minimum Time to Completion: 2 Years
Points: 6

Students enrolled in the online master’s in anthropology degree option from Bob Jones University can pursue an MA in Intercultural Studies with a concentration in either Bible Translation and Linguistics or Theology and Missions Strategy. Required courses may include:

  • Systemic Theology
  • Biblical Strategy of Missions
  • Contextualization for Ministry
  • Theology of Missions and Evangelism

Students may also choose from elective classes such as:

  • Intercultural Communication
  • Cultural Anthropology
  • History and Theology of Religions
  • History of Christian Missions

A cross-cultural internship is also required before graduation. Bob Jones University is institutionally accredited by both the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges and the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools Accreditation Commission. U.S. News & World Report has recognized the school as one of the top 35 regional universities in the South.
Graduate Tuition: $8,162

#7—Multnomah University

Portland, Oregon

Online MA in Global Development and Justice

Website
Minimum Time to Completion: 18 Months
Points: 7

The online accelerated master’s in anthropology option from Multnomah University is an 18-month online Master of Arts in Global Development and Justice (MAGDJ). Though the program’s coursework can be completed entirely via distance education, a two-week study abroad experience is required. The curriculum for the program features an optional concentration in Peace & Reconciliation and features courses such as:

  • Foundations in International Development Practice
  • Global Immersion Studies
  • Introduction to Advocacy and Justice Studies

Students enrolled in the Peace & Reconciliation specialization will take additional classes like:

  • Peacebuilding and Transformative Justice
  • Topics in Global Development and Justice

Multnomah University holds institutional accreditation from the Northwest Commission on Higher Education to award the online master’s in anthropology.
Graduate Tuition: $13,440

#6—University of Maryland

College Park, Maryland

Online Master’s in Cultural and Heritage Resource Management

Website
Minimum Time to Completion: 18 Months
Points: 7

The University of Maryland offers an accelerated online anthropology master’s degree program through its College of Behavioral and Social Sciences and the Department of Anthropology. The 36-credit hour Master of Cultural and Heritage Resource Management is designed to be completed within 18 months of study. The curriculum for the program is comprised of course titles like:

  • International Preservation Laws and Professional Ethics
  • Applied Archaeological Theory: From Plan of Work to Final Report
  • From Collecting to Collections: Data Management and Preservation of Cultural Materials

A part-time track is also available. A thesis is required for successful program completion, and internship opportunities are available. The University of Maryland is institutionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. U.S. News & World Report has ranked the school among the 60 best national universities in the country.
Graduate Tuition: $13,158

#5—Ohio University

Athens, Ohio

Online Master’s in Social Sciences

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Minimum Time to Completion: 18 Months
Points: 8

Designed for educators, Ohio University’s online accelerated master’s in anthropology offering is a Master of Social Sciences. The program’s curriculum is interdisciplinary in nature and covers topics in history, geography, anthropology, political science, and gender studies. Sample course titles comprising the degree plan include:

  • Peoples, Plagues, and Pestilence
  • Human Rights, Law, and Justice
  • Historical Geography of the United States

Students must pass a culminating exam for successful program completion. The Higher Learning Commission has accredited Ohio University to award this accelerated online master of anthropology degree. U.S. News & World Report has recognized the school as one of the country’s top national universities.
Graduate Tuition: $9,444

#4—Liberty University

Lynchburg, Virginia

Online Master of Arts in Global Studies

Website
Minimum Time to Completion: 18 Months
Points: 9

liberty-university

Liberty University’s accelerated master of anthropology online is a MA in Global Studies program. Offered through the university’s John W. Rawlings School of Divinity, the program features core courses such as:

  • History and Theory of Global Engagement
  • Contextualization and Global Thought
  • Intercultural Communication
  • Cultural Anthropology

A Global Studies internship is also required before graduation. Liberty University is fully accredited to offer this graduate degree in anthropology online by both the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges and the Commission on Accrediting of the Association of Theological Schools. U.S. News & World Report has ranked the school among the top national universities in the country.
Graduate Tuition: $7,980

#3—Eastern University

Saint Davids, Pennsylvania

Online MA in Theological and Cultural Anthropology

Website
Minimum Time to Completion: 11 Months
Points: 10

Eastern University’s highly accelerated online master of anthropology option is a Master of Arts in Theological and Cultural Anthropology that can be completed in less than a year. Offered through the school’s College of Health and Sciences and the Department of Social Transformation, the program also includes a part-time track. The 33-credit hour curriculum for the program features core courses such as:

  • Integrated Anthropological Theory
  • Faith-Based Ethnographic Methods
  • Theology of Culture

In addition to these required classes, elective courses are offered such that students may design a custom concentration or focus area. The Middle States Commission on Higher Education has accredited Eastern University to award this online anthropology master’s degree. The school has been ranked among the 100 best regional universities in the North by U.S. News & World Report.
Graduate Tuition: $13,050

#2—Biola University

La Mirada, California

Online MA in Intercultural Studies

Website
Minimum Time to Completion: 12 Months
Points: 10

Students who hold a bachelor’s degree in intercultural studies can complete their accelerated online anthropology master’s within just 12 months from Biola University. This MA in Intercultural Studies program consists of 30 credit hours of core coursework, which may include classes like:

  • Social Anthropology
  • Economic Anthropology
  • History of the World Christian Movement
  • Interpersonal and Intercultural Adjustment

Students enrolled in the program can elect a concentration from the following options:

  • Peace and Conflict Transformation
  • Intercultural Studies
  • Missiology

The WASC Senior College and University Commission has accredited Biola University to award this online accelerated master of anthropology degree. The school has been recognized as a leading national university by U.S. News & World Report.

Graduate Tuition: $11,394

#1—Trinity International University

Deerfield, Illinois

Online Master of Arts in Intercultural Studies

Website
Minimum Time to Completion: 1 Year
Points: 11

Students enrolled in Trinity International University’s MA in Intercultural Studies program will fulfill both a Bible and Theology core as well as an Intercultural Studies core. The Bible and Theology core requires students to take the following courses:

  • Biblical Theology and Interpretation
  • Theology I: The God of the Gospel
  • Theology II: The Gospel of God

The Intercultural Studies core consists of classes such as:

  • Anthropology for Ministry
  • History of the Expansion of Christianity
  • Theology of Mission and Evangelism

A comprehensive exam and capstone project are also required prior to graduation. The Higher Learning has accredited Trinity International University to award this accelerated online master of anthropology degree. The school has been ranked among the country’s best national universities by U.S. News & World Report.
Graduate Tuition: $9,900

About the Fastest Online Anthropology Masters:

Known for its interdisciplinary coursework, the study of Anthropology will focus on the cultural, historical, and biological points of view of human societies. Interested graduate students will likely have a background in anthropology with a desire to specialize in a sub-field of the discipline. Merging both academic and applied anthropology methods, a primary goal of the program is to teach students applicable research skills and quantitative reasoning used for on-the-job research projects and fieldwork. 

Types of Degrees in the Quickest Online Anthropology Masters:

A Master of Arts is the most common degree type in Anthropology, but some schools do offer a Master of Science. 

Schools will also offer two different degrees: an academic anthropology degree and an applied anthropology degree.

The main difference between the two is that a general/academic anthropology degree will focus on existing research. In contrast, a degree in applied anthropology will focus more on new research through fieldwork. An academic anthropology degree’s main goal is to facilitate change in society, while the goal of an academic anthropology degree is to train/teach others in the field. 

When it comes to what degree option to choose, that will come down to a student’s post-graduate goals. If a student wants to work in the field, a degree in applied anthropology might be best. For students who want to earn a PhD and teach, a general anthropology degree might be best. 

Coursework for the Easiest Online Anthropology Masters:

No matter what program you choose, you will inevitably take core coursework in anthropology. And depending on what degree you pursue, these core courses might vary. But generally, you can expect to take introductory-level graduate courses in general anthropology, then more targeted classes in your given subfield. Students can also customize their degree with anthropology-related or interdisciplinary electives.

Specific coursework could include: Introductory Anthropology, Anthropology and Archeology Theory, the Ancient Mayans, Osteology, Ethnographic Research, and classes in your specialization. 

Specific Types of Anthropology You Could Study:

Like most fields of study, students can choose to specialize in a certain area of anthropology that interests them, and in turn, pursue a variety of careers that match their skills and passions. Here are a few of the most common areas of emphasis for the graduate field of anthropology:

Cultural Anthropology:

If you are interested in different cultures, then you might like the sub-field of cultural anthropology. In this career, you will examine different cultures around the world, with the goal to examine and determine similarities and differences among cultures—their customs, rituals, practices, eating habits, and more. You can expect a lot of travel, fieldwork, and a detailed recording of your findings. A sub-field of cultural anthropology is medical anthropology, which examines the ways in which different cultures approach the medical well-being of their people.

Biological Anthropology:

Biological Anthropology is also known as physical anthropology and will critically examine humankind and primates, their evolutionary nature, and their behavioral and biological components over time. Students in this discipline will look at the physical human (or primate) body—bones, organs, and muscles—but not for medical purposes. Rather, biological anthropology studies the human body to analyze its survival and reproduction techniques.

Linguistic Anthropology:

A linguistic anthropologist will study the role of languages across various cultures and societies—and how that language shapes identities, groups, relationships, and more. 

Archeology:

This subfield of anthropology is the study of things of the past from people a long time ago. This could include studying objects, currencies, buildings, inscriptions, and more. 

Forensic Anthropology:

Forensic Anthropology is exactly as it sounds; it’s a subdiscipline of anthropology that will focus on the forensics of bodily remains. Within this field, students will need in-depth knowledge of human anatomy and knowledge of the legal field and crime scene investigation techniques. Professionals in this field could also be called upon to testify in court, providing important forensic evidence for cases. 

Other areas of specialization could include Evolutionary Anthropology, Environmental Anthropology, Ecological Anthropology, Visual Anthropology, Urban Anthropology, Business & Technology Anthropology, or Migration Anthropology.

Add-On Certifications: 

On top of or in lieu of adding on an area of concentration, students can also pursue a professional certification in a related area. These certifications can help you land a specific job you want or allow you to take targeted coursework in a certain area related to anthropology. 

Prerequisites for the Fastest Online Anthropology Masters:

In order to enter a Master’s degree program, students must have a Bachelor’s degree first. A degree in anthropology or an anthropology-related field like liberal arts or the humanities is preferred, but not mandatory. At a minimum, students will need a background in biology and the social sciences. For students who do not have a background in anthropology, some programs will offer a course prior to starting the graduate program. In addition, depending on the type of degree you are pursuing, you might be required to have some prerequisite coursework. For example, some Master of Arts programs require a prior foreign language component—or they might offer an exemption examination. Make sure to check the details of your desired program before you apply.

Length of Online Accelerated Graduate Anthropology programs:

Each program will have different requirements, but typically, you can earn an affordable Master’s degree in Anthropology in 1-2 years. 

Full-time programs:

Full-time students can typically earn the degree in as little as 11-12 months, with a summer, fall, and spring semester. 

Part-time programs:

Some schools allow for students to take their classes on a part-time basis to allow for family or work obligations. Part-time students will typically take 2 classes per semester, and can complete their degree in about 2 years. 

1-year Online Master’s in Anthropology:

Maybe you’re thinking: “I want to advance my education, but I don’t want it to drag on.” Well, you’re in luck. With some research, you could find a 1-year Master’s in Anthropology Online. Many factors could affect the length of time it takes to get your degree like the program details, your prerequisites, whether you’re a full-time or part-time student, and more.

Internships and Fieldwork for the Quickest Online Master’s in Anthropology:

Many affordable graduate degrees rely on internships and/or fieldwork for a real-world application component of the study, especially in Applied Anthropology degrees that are practice-oriented. They may not be required in a general Anthropology degree. Internship requirements will vary from program-to-program but will generally include a 180-hour experience. 

Internships will help you gain the necessary experience you might need as you apply for job positions post-graduation. They can also help you figure out what kinds of jobs you do or don’t want to pursue.

Culminating Work:

All work in the anthropology graduate degree will culminate in a final component. Each program will differ. Some require a thesis, and some allow you to choose between a thesis, a final project, or a comprehensive exam. If you have a preference, make sure to check your program’s details to see what is required. 

About online learning:

Often, online learning gets an inaccurate stigma: that online programs are less legitimate or less in quality and rigor. And that is just not the case. Many programs tout an extremely rigorous program and utilize the same coursework and faculty as their on-campus counterparts. Additionally, most online degrees do not indicate that they are earned online so that the diploma earned will be exactly like an on-campus student’s diploma. It is important to note that though online learning holds the same value as an on-campus program, it will take a certain amount of personal motivation. You will most likely have online student services to aid you in your pursuit, like online advisors, libraries, tutoring, and more. The length of online classes can vary, depending on your program. Some schools follow a traditional path, offering classes in the fall and spring (with shortened 7 or 8-week classes in the summer), and some offer shorter but more intense classes throughout the year. Classes will be presented either synchronously (at a specific day/time) or asynchronously (on your own time/schedule).

On-Campus Orientations:

Some online anthropology programs do require an on-campus orientation or intensive, so make sure to check the details of the programs you are interested in to see what they require. The benefits of an on-campus orientation are meeting your professors, building comradery with other online students, and igniting your passion for anthropology.

Standardized Testing:

Most graduate programs require an entry test like the GMAT or GRE for admission. Some schools are test-optional or do not require them at all. Check your school’s admission requirements for details. 

Admission details for Online Anthropology Masters: 

To get admitted to an online accelerated Master’s in Anthropology degree program, you will need (all program entry requirements will vary):

  • a Bachelor’s degree in anthropology or anthropology-related field
  • required prerequisite coursework
  • a minimum GPA requirement
  • standardized test scores, if required
  • letters of recommendation 
  • entrance essay

*Remember, entrance to all programs will vary. Check your school’s program details to make sure you can meet the requirements before applying. 

Continuing Education for Online Anthropology Masters:

There are PhD programs in Anthropology available for interested students, but note that it is not necessary for you to work in the anthropology field. However, getting one could give you an edge over other applicants in this competitive field. 

Anthropology Career Information:

Employment Outlook for Careers in Anthropology:

If you’re interested in the field of anthropology and archeology, you’re entering at a good time. In fact, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics agrees, citing that in the next 8 years, the field is expected to grow by 10% (which is faster than other professions). 

Possible Careers with an affordable Master’s degree in Anthropology:

The good news about this field is that the job market is vast. Depending on your interests, you’ll be able to find a career that works for your background and your passions. A graduate with a Master’s degree in Anthropology can find work research organizations, the government, and consulting firms. Additional jobs could be in museums, conservation work, academia, advertising, or health and social work. 

Possible Incomes with affordable Master’s degree in Anthropology:

According to data from the US Bureau of Labor and Statistics, here are some possible salaries for graduates (based on 2018 median pay):

  • Anthropologists and Archeologists: $62,410 per year 
  • Post-secondary teachers Anthropology and Archeology teachers: $94,080
  • Economists: $104,340 per year
  • Curators and Museum Workers: $48,400 per year
  • Environmental Scientist/Specialist: $71,130 per year
  • Survey Researchers: $57,700 per year
  • Historians: $61,140 per year
  • Geographers: $80,300 per year
  • Sociologists: $82,050 per year

Professional Organizations for the Field of Anthropology:

Especially in a field like Anthropology, it is important to stay up to date on current research and professional practices. That’s exactly what being a part of a professional organization does. In addition, you’ll get to network with like-minded peers and get the support you need to succeed in your career. Here are a few anthropology-related professional organizations to check out. 

  • American Anthropological Association (AAA)
  • National Association for the Practice of Anthropology (NAPA)
  • Society for Applied Anthropology (SFAA)

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