Career Trends: Anthropologists and Archeologists

Anthropologists and archeologists study the origin, development, and behavior of humans. They examine the cultures, languages, archeological remains, and physical characteristics of people in various parts of the world.

Anthropologists and archeologists typically work in research organizations, government, and consulting firms. Although most work in an office, some analyze samples in laboratories or do fieldwork. Fieldwork in remote areas usually requires travel for extended periods.

Anthropologists and archeologists need a master’s degree or Ph.D. in anthropology or archeology. Experience doing fieldwork in either discipline is also important. Bachelor’s degree holders may find work as assistants or fieldworkers.

Employment of anthropologists and archeologists is projected to grow 4 percent from 2014 to 2024, slower than the average for all occupations. Prospective anthropologists and archeologists will likely face strong competition for jobs because of the small number of positions relative to applicants.

This occupation supported 7,200 jobs in 2012 and 7,700 jobs in 2014, reflecting an increase of 6.9%. In 2012, this occupation was projected to increase by 19.4% in 2022 to 8,600 jobs. As of 2014, to keep pace with prediction, the expected number of jobs was 7,400, compared with an observed value of 7,700, 4.1% higher than expected. This indicates current employment trends are better than the 2012 trend within this occupation. In 2014, this occupation was projected to increase by 4.2% in 2024 to 8,000 jobs. Linear extrapolation of the 2012 projection for 2022 results in an expected number of 8,800 jobs for 2024, 10.0% higher than the 2014 projection for 2024. This indicates expectations for future employment trends are much worse than the 2012 trend within this occupation.