Anthropology is the study of humans in the present and the past. Within the field of anthropology, there are four specialties:
- cultural anthropologists intensively and comparatively study human cultures throughout the world
- physical or biological anthropologists who study the biological complexities of human development and structure
- linguistic anthropologists that study the development, structure, and social uses for human communication
- archaeologists who excavate the remains of past societies
The interdisciplinary nature of anthropology crosses into related fields of sociology, biology, economics, art, biology, chemistry, political science, geology, psychology and history.
Our anthropology discipline is built around the Associate in Arts (A.A.) degree. This degree gives you a solid two-year background in general education courses that can transfer to a four-year institution. It also allows 17 hours of elective courses to let you hone in on your specific interests.
Anthropology classes can be taken as a social/behavioral science and as diversity courses as part of a degree plan.
What skills will I gain from studying Anthropology?
- You'll gain skills in understanding humans from all backgrounds while also learning important scientific and research skills and abstract thinking;
- You'll learn how to set aside judgment, understand change, seek evidence-based information, and think outside the box;
- You'll learn how to think critically, manage unfamiliar information and experiences, and view things from a holistic perspective.
Careers
Did you know that the skills learned in anthropology classes are valuable and in demand in various careers?
Even if your career goals are in science, healthcare, or business, most career opportunities are positions that require cross-cultural awareness and effective communication skills in diverse communities that anthropology courses are best equipped to provide.
Many students of anthropology seek careers in:
- Applied physical anthropology and forensics
- Medical researcher
- Archaeology and historic preservation
- Park ranger
- Museum studies
- Teaching
- Community health
- Social services and social work
- Corporate or government analyst
- Educational planning
- Economic development
- Department of defense, FBI and law enforcement
Visit Occupational Information Network (O*NET) to view salary information, employment
outlook and personal characteristics needed for this career.
For many careers (O*Net), a Bachelor's degree is a great starting point, which may be all that is needed. For jobs specializing in Anthropology, teaching, and some research-based careers, a Master's Degree (and sometimes a Ph.D.) would be required.
Transfer made simple
Whatever your transfer destination, we'll work to make sure your credits move easily. That's why we're experts at it. We've worked out specific transfer agreements with many four-year colleges and universities.
While MCC does not offer a degree in this field, these lower division (freshman/sophomore level) courses move with you to a four-year college or university. Depending on your chosen major may apply toward your degree or as an elective. Check with your transfer school and your Student Success Advisor for the most accurate and timely transfer information.
The following courses are part of Missouri's Core-42 Transfer Library: ANTH 100 and ANTH 110 and will transfer to any public college or university in the state.