Find out everything you need to know about becoming an Anthropologist.

Job Title - Anthropologist

Description

An Anthropologist studies the lifestyle and culture of human societies with reference to politics, religion, legal system, economy, education, language, health care and art and then writes about it.

Typical Job Activities

Comparative studies are made relating to human origin, evolution, races, the cultures created, as well as
the distribution and physical characteristics of human beings.

In South Africa particular attention is paid to the rich variety of inhabitants. The heterogeneous composition of the population provides ideal opportunities for and challenges to the anthropologist.

Because of the sensitivity that an anthropologist has towards the different lifestyles, circumstances and problems of people you will be used in various roles in human development, conflict resolution, missionary work and easing of relationships in the workplace.

The anthropologist spends time in an office, the library as well as in the "field". You will study relevant
literature, observe and interview people, write reports and work with other professionals trying to solve
problems between people with different cultural backgrounds.

Anthropology is the total study of human origin, development and social interaction using a holistic approach and uses mainly qualitative research by means of participant observation.

Does this sound like a career for you? Browse these South African jobs here.

Related Occupations

Research Analyst
Historian
Sociologist
Archivist

Educational Requirements

BA degree course with Anthropology as major subject in combination with one of the following subjects:
Archaeology, African Languages, Communication, Development Administration, Indigenous Law, History,
Psychology, Sociology, Political Science, Public Administration or Personnel Management

Honours degree in Anthropology:
Further postgraduate qualifications like a Masters and Doctorate in Anthropology are needed for more senior positions

Compulsory subjects: None
Recommended subjects: African Languages and history

What natural skills and/or aptitudes do I need for this occupation?

Possess considerable patience and tact
Have a good memory
Be able to adapt easily to change
Have a genuine interest in people
Enjoy working with people of all population groups
Have good health and stamina
Speak the languages of the groups being studied (however, interpreters are generally used in research projects to bridge language Barriers)
Be able to work for long periods on his own and away from home

Udemy has over 24 000 interesting and inexpensive courses available to start right now.

Employment Opportunities

Low

Market Competitiveness

Moderate

Income Potential

Low

Self-Employment Options

Low

International Employment Market

Low

Possible Employers

Government - Museums, Department of Education or Justice, Health care services, Community development, Municipalities or Personnel departments

Medium or small Companies - Research institutions, Mining companies, African Institute, Advertising companies, Marketing agents, Development boards or Development Bank

Own small business: Entrepreneurial opportunities in this field

Browse companies hiring now.

Relevant Contact Details

Anthropology Southern Africa
www.asnahome.org

Career Progress and Path

Further studies in related fields
Work performance
Experience in related fields
Do presentations, seminars, publish articles, etc.
General management studies

Possible Career Paths

Specialist career in the specific field
Management positions in related fields
Consultant/ contractor/ own practice/ freelance

Employment Stability

Moderately stable

Reasons to consider this career

A job in government
To be of service to people
To learn new things
To work with people