Edited By Barani Krishnan
Review & Contribution By Dr. William Harris
Dive into the depths of human culture and evolution. Explore the Online Ph.D. Anthropology. Unearth the mysteries of humanity, digitally.
Anthropologists are observant and use their data analysis and research skills to evaluate historical societies or address education, and health issues. An online Ph.D. anthropology allows individuals to specialize in areas like biological anthropology, linguistic anthropology, cultural anthropology, archaeology, and more. Graduates gain skills applicable in both academic and non-academic settings. The program prepares them for careers in academia, consulting, research and development, the federal government, and beyond. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 4 percent[1] job growth in the field, which is as fast as the average.
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Featured Online Programs
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Southern New Hampshire University
PROGRAM: MBA with concentration in Engineering Management
Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit, accredited institution with more than 3,000 on campus students, over 170,000 online students, making it one of the fastest growing universities in the nation. Founded in 1932, we’ve been relentlessly reinventing higher education ever since and have gained national recognition for our dedication to helping students transform their lives and the lives of those around them.
We’re proud to provide affordable, accessible education that students can pursue on our 300-acre campus in Manchester, NH, or via our innovative online platform.
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National University
PROGRAM: Find Best Degree
National University, headquartered in San Diego, California, was founded in 1971 to provide educational opportunities for adult learners and working professionals. It offers over 190 degree programs, including bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees, with flexible online and on-campus courses. Serving around 40,000 students and over 240,000 alumni, the university is recognized for its support of U.S. military members. Accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), National University is committed to accessible and transformative higher education.
Find the Best Online Ph.D. Anthropology
Aspiring graduate students must choose the right program to enhance their future. Finding the best online Ph.D. in anthropology is challenging, as students need to research programs for quality faculty, appropriate duration, funding options, school accreditation, and various courses and specializations. Based on several critical components and our proprietary methodology, here is the list of the best Ph.D in Anthropology.
| Univ | Address | Tuition | Grad Rate |
| California Institute of Integral Studies | 1453 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94103 | $23,130 | NA |
Universities and programs are ranked by various factors, such as affordability, curriculum and coursework, reputation and availability, program length, statistics, the potential of employment, and return on investment for the students. For a more in-depth analysis, please read about our rankings methodology page.
What to Expect from an Online Ph.D. Anthropology Program
The online Ph.D. in anthropology program typically requires 54 credit hours and can be completed in 4-5 years. It combines fundamental concepts of anthropology with a critical exploration of the field’s role and nature. The program enhances intellectual and practical skills, applying research to address today’s societal challenges. Students gain classic and contemporary knowledge of anthropological theory, using key ideas for archaeological and anthropological analysis and research. Generally, the doctoral program includes a dissertation requirement, culminating in a defense before a panel. Graduates with this degree can pursue careers as market research analysts, research associates, anthropologists, postsecondary teachers, curators, sociologists, museum workers, and more.
Program Structure, Coursework, and Dissertation
An online Ph.D. in anthropology provides students with a well-balanced education and a solid foundation in various areas of anthropology, such as introduction to anthropology, reading and writing ethnography, principles of biological anthropology, and more.
Doctoral programs require a preliminary examination, which includes a proposal for doctoral research, a pre-dissertation research paper, and a written test designed by a doctoral committee, followed by an oral examination. The final assessment typically involves a defense of the doctoral thesis. Most degrees also include fieldwork. However, some fundamental aspects of the curriculum, which are similar across most programs, are discussed below:
Dissertation
Dissertations are a crucial part of any Ph.D. student’s curriculum. To fulfill the requirements, students must work with their supervisors or, in some cases, two supervisors. This process involves extensive research, writing, and presenting the dissertation to a committee for approval. The completed dissertation should be original and contribute to contemporary anthropological knowledge.
Coursework
The coursework will equip graduates with the professional skills needed to enter the workplace. It provides foundational knowledge essential for studying various cultures and their origins. Many standard courses across institutions include linguistic anthropology, reading and writing ethnography, principles of biological anthropology, and more.
Teaching
In some institutions, teaching is an option for students who haven’t been able to secure graduate teaching assistantships. This opportunity benefits students aspiring to work in academic settings, as it helps them ease their financial burdens while gaining valuable teaching experience simultaneously.
Research seminars
Most colleges have specific requirements for research seminars. These seminars help students expand their field knowledge and deepen their expertise in dissertation topics, fostering critical thinking and advanced research skills. They provide a platform for scholarly discussion and collaboration among peers and faculty.
Final Exam or Dissertation Defense
The final or defense exam is an oral examination typically open to the public. The student, who has written the thesis or dissertation, must demonstrate a satisfactory command of all aspects of their work and related domains. Sometimes, the final exam consists of two parts: a public presentation and a closed portion open to faculty members.
The field of anthropology is extensive, offering numerous dissertation topics in both quantitative and qualitative approaches. Some examples include:
- Religion, Law, and Politics
- Ethnicity
- Psychological Anthropology
- Gender
- Culture and Environment
- Cognition and Culture
- Medical Anthropology
- History and Anthropology
- Problems of Economic Development and Social Change
- Evolutionary Morphology
- Genomics
- Sensory Adaptation
- Human-Environment Interactions
- Urbanism
- Biological Anthropology
To understand more details about doctoral programs, refer to the guide to Ph.D. programs.
Learning Outcomes and Skills Gained
This program teaches students how to investigate unknown aspects of past events, people, or ideas; identify how the past has affected the present; and decipher historical information. The degree helps students design or choose survey methods that best capture the data needed for anthropological research. A doctoral degree in anthropology provides students with several key skills, including:
In a Ph.D. program in healthcare administration, they can expect to develop advanced knowledge, skills, and competencies that prepare them for leadership roles in the healthcare industry. By the end of the degree, candidates develop the ability to
- Demonstrating the need for solid communication skills when conducting surveys and presenting and interpreting results to clients.
- Examining data and other information using various statistical methods and tools to test theories.
- Using strong communication skills to conduct interviews, collaborate with colleagues in the field, and write and present research findings.
- Designing research projects, processing, collecting, and analyzing information to draw logical conclusions about societies and different groups of people.
- Reviewing data in detail, performing advanced calculations, observing patterns, and drawing logical conclusions.
- Using reasoning and logic to solve complex problems helps evaluate current anthropological trends.
- Explaining their work to others, giving presentations, and explaining reports to stakeholders without a background in anthropology or related fields.
- Examining various historical resources and drawing logical and clear conclusions based on their findings.
- Communicating efficiently when collecting information in the field, presenting research, and collaborating with colleagues through written documents and presentations.
Areas of Specialization for Anthropology Ph.D. Students
Specialization helps PhD students in anthropology strengthen their skills and offers benefits like higher salaries, industry recognition, and better career prospects. It enables them to become experts in specific areas, enhancing their research capabilities and making them more competitive in the job market. Some specializations that an online Ph.D. anthropology student can pursue include:
| Area of Specialization | Description | Career Options |
|---|---|---|
| Anthropological Archaeology | In this specialization, students engage in fieldwork, laboratory analyses, excavations, and surveys to study human history. They explore the evolution of global social, economic, political, and symbolic systems, gaining deep insights into past human behaviors and cultural transformations. | 1. Archaeologist 2. Cultural Heritage Manager 3. Museum Curator 4. Historical Preservation Officer |
| Social-cultural anthropology | This specialization focuses on understanding the complexities of contemporary human societies. Through ethnographic research, students examine cultural practices, social structures, and belief systems. This specialization provides insights into how people interact within their communities and adapt to social, economic, and political changes. | 1. Cultural Anthropologist 2. Public Relations Manager 3. Interpreter 4. Community Development Specialist |
| Environmental Anthropology | This specialization explores the interactions between humans and their environments. Students study cultural responses to environmental challenges, resource management, and sustainability practices. This specialization aims to understand how human activities impact ecosystems and how societies adapt to environmental changes. | 1. Geographic Information Systems Analyst 2. Research Associate 3. Museum Curator 4. Urban Planner |
| Global Health and Medical Anthropology | This specialization emphasizes diverse insights, new opportunities, and approaches for understanding human well-being and health. Students learn about methods from biological, cultural, medical, and social anthropology, integrating them into a comprehensive framework to address and understand global and local health issues. | 1. Medical Anthropologist 2. Public Health Specialist 3. Global Health Researcher 4. Health Policy Analyst |
| Paleoanthropology | Through this specialization, students gain knowledge of methods and advancing technologies. Genetics is crucial in examining and comparing DNA structures as a vital research tool. They learn to reconstruct evolutionary kinship lines within the Hominidae family, interpret cultural evidence, and work with biological evidence. | 1. Paleoanthropologist 2. Research Scientist 3. Museum Curator 4. Scientific Consultant |
| Population Genetics | Population genetics concentration is a domain of genetics dealing with genetic differences among and within populations and is also a part of evolutionary biology. Students learn to identify alleles associated with providing insight into the effects of medical intervention and disease risk on the population frequency of diseases. | 1. Geneticist 2. Bioinformatician 3. Research Scientist 4. Genomic Data Scientist |
Full-Time and Part-Time Ph.D. Programs
On average, completing an anthropology Ph.D. programs online in the United States may take about four to six years. The initial two years are typically dedicated to coursework, while the remaining time is focused on writing and defending a dissertation. Factors such as passing the qualifying exam, defending the thesis proposal orally, department approval of the written thesis, and oral defense of the dissertation influence the program’s duration. Completion in an accelerated format may shorten the timeframe, while part-time enrollment could extend beyond six years.
Accelerated Anthropology Ph.D. Programs
Students can expedite their Ph.D. programs through various means, enabling them to complete the program more quickly. In accelerated programs, students may attend classes year-round, including summer sessions. This approach allows students to finish their required coursework in a year rather than the two or three years typical of traditional programs. An accelerated Ph.D. in anthropology benefits working individuals seeking to enter the job market promptly or those with commitments such as health or family matters. Institutions offering such programs include the University of Pennsylvania-Penn Arts and Sciences[2], Brown University[3], and Case Western Reserve University[4].
Requirements for Getting into an Online Ph.D. Anthropology Program
Ph.D. programs can be highly competitive, with rigorous selection criteria due to the advanced nature of the degree. Prospective students should thoroughly understand the field of anthropology before applying, which enhances their preparation. While a master’s in anthropology is not mandatory for admission, applicants with this qualification often have a competitive advantage. However, some of the standard admission requirements for online Ph.D. anthropology programs include:
- Application fee and form
- Minimum of 3.0 GPA or cumulative grade point average
- Transcripts of prior university-level degree
- GRE scores (not mandatory in many colleges)
- Statement of purpose
- Sample of written work of around 15-25 pages on an average
- Undergraduate degree with a major in anthropology or an equivalent level of preparation or degree
- Resume
No GRE Online Ph.D. Anthropology
Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores typically showcase the academic abilities of students pursuing advanced degrees. They play a pivotal role in doctoral degree program applications. However, many colleges in the United States have begun waiving or making GRE scores optional for applicants. Here are a few colleges in the U.S. that provide a Ph.D. in anthropology no gre program
How to Ensure an Online Ph.D. Anthropology Program is Accredited
Accreditation evaluates higher education institutions to uphold educational quality standards through a peer evaluation. It ensures quality and fosters continuous improvement. Accredited schools enable credit transfer between institutions and eligibility for federal financial aid. Therefore, students should verify whether the institution offering the program has national or regional accreditation to guarantee program credibility and support. The six regional accrediting bodies in the United States are:
- New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
Where to Find Free Online Courses for Online Ph.D. Anthropology Students
Free online courses provide accessible learning opportunities to students worldwide. They cover diverse subjects, allowing learners to explore new interests or enhance existing skills. With flexible schedules and self-paced learning, free online courses accommodate various lifestyles, empowering individuals to pursue education at their convenience and pace. Here are a few free anthropology courses for students to explore:
| Course | Description | Provided by |
|---|---|---|
| Big History: Connecting Knowledge[8] | The course delves into both near and distant future scenarios, addressing challenges of the current century and projecting over billions of years. It highlights the agrarian era spanning 10,000 years and its transition to the modern era marked by increased complexity and productivity. | Coursera |
| Anthropology of Current World Issues[9] | This free course helps students understand key anthropological methods and concepts. Students gain knowledge of current world challenges related to identity, power, and everyday life as experienced in diverse locations by various populations. | Edx |
| Forensic Anthropology – Skeletal analysis[10] | In this free course, students learn to produce professional reports on analysis results and estimate the weight and height of individuals at death. They also learn to identify traumatic lesions on human skeletal remains. | Udemy |
Ways to Pay for an Online Ph.D. Anthropology Program
Online PhD in anthropology costs differ based on institution and program. Students typically cover expenses like tuition and course materials. Travel expenses, however, are usually not incurred by online students. To manage costs, students can explore options such as employer sponsorship, installment plans, or programs with lower tuition rates. Additionally, some institutions offer payment plans tailored to online learners’ needs. Here are a few funding possibilities:
Scholarships empower individuals to pursue education by easing financial burdens. They recognize merit, talent, and need, fostering diversity and excellence. From academic achievements to community service, scholarships reward various accomplishments. They open doors to opportunities, shaping brighter futures and empowering dreams to flourish regardless of financial constraints.
Grants for students provide financial assistance, often based on need or specific criteria like academic performance or field of study. Unlike loans, grants don’t require repayment, lightening the financial load of education. They promote accessibility and equity, ensuring aspiring learners can pursue their educational goals without financial stress.
Graduate Assistantships
Graduate assistantships offer invaluable opportunities for graduate students to gain practical experience while pursuing advanced degrees. These positions typically involve teaching, research, or administrative duties in exchange for stipends, tuition waivers, or both. They provide valuable mentorship, professional development, and financial support, enriching the academic journey and preparing students for future careers.
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a crucial form for students seeking financial aid for college. It determines eligibility for grants, loans, and work-study programs, making higher education more accessible.
Fully Funded Online Ph.D. Anthropology
A fully funded Ph.D. in anthropology offers a flexible path to advanced cultural, social, or archaeological study. Combining rigorous research with digital resources enables scholars to explore human societies and cultures while maintaining professional or personal commitments. Full funding often covers tuition and provides stipends, fostering academic excellence and accessibility. Here are a few fully funded Ph.D. in anthropology programs:
| University | Description |
|---|---|
| Boston University[11] | Boston University’s Graduate School of Arts and Sciences offers incoming Ph.D. students a Dean’s Fellowship, comprising a living stipend, full tuition coverage, five-year health insurance, and additional benefits. Students can also opt for non-service, teaching or doctoral research fellowships. |
| Emory University[12] | Given their steady progress, the Anthropology graduate degree funds its graduate students for five years. Funding covers the tuition costs and a 12-month living stipend of a minimum of $36,376 annually. The standard tuition scholarship of over $70,200 covers most applicants’ costs. It also covers the student health insurance premium. |
| City University of New York[13] | The graduate centers offer a range of financial awards, grants, employment opportunities, and scholarships to extend or supplement current graduate students’ five-year fellowship awards, providing dissertation support and additional research funding. This assistance includes fellowships, assistantships, and tuition awards to support students throughout their academic journey. |
Career Opportunities and Salaries After Graduating With an Online Ph.D. Anthropology
Graduating with a Ph.D. in anthropology opens doors to diverse career opportunities across sectors. Professionals with this qualification command competitive salaries commensurate with their expertise and experience. The interdisciplinary nature of anthropology equips graduates with versatile skills valued in academia, research, government, non-profit organizations, and beyond, ensuring a range of rewarding career paths. Here are some career titles and salaries for graduates of online Ph.D. in anthropology:
- Historians
- Legislators
- Geographers
- Archaeologist
- Political scientists
- Anthropologists
- Sociologists
- Lawyers
- Forensic science technicians
Here are a few more occupations explored:
| Occupation | Skills Required | Median Annual Salary | Job Growth (up to 2031) | Job Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anthropologists[1] | Analytical, communication, critical-thinking skills, and physical stamina. | $63,800 | 4% (as fast as average) | Anthropologists analyze various data sources, including laboratory samples, to discern patterns in human culture, origins, and life. Integrating knowledge from humanities, physical, social, and biological sciences, they explore languages, archaeological remains, and other cultural artifacts worldwide, shedding light on diverse societies and human experiences. |
| Survey Researchers[14] | Analytical, communication, critical-thinking, detail-oriented, and problem-solving skills. | $60,960 | -4% (decline) | Survey researchers employ diverse methodologies, including questionnaires, interviews, and focus groups, to gather opinions from the entire population. Utilizing various techniques such as online surveys and in-person interviews, they collect data to analyze trends, preferences, and attitudes across different demographics, informing decision-making processes in numerous fields. |
| Political Scientists[15] | Communication, problem-solving, research, and analytical skills. | $132,350 | 7% (faster than average) | Political scientists assess the impacts of laws and policies on businesses, individuals, and governments while developing and testing political theories. They analyze current events and policies by incorporating economic data, election outcomes, and public opinion surveys, providing insights crucial for understanding political dynamics and informing policymaking decisions. |
| Geographers[16] | Analytical, computer, communication, and critical-thinking skills. | $90,880 | 1% (little or no change) | Geographers utilize Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to collect, visualize, and analyze data, leveraging technologies like remote sensing and global positioning systems (GPS). They conduct research, present findings, and guide utilizing geographic data, demonstrating expertise in spatial analysis to understand and address complex environmental, social, and economic challenges. |
| Historians[17] | Analytical, foreign language, problem-solving, and research skills | $72,890 | 3% (as fast as average) | Historians produce reports, articles, and books detailing theories and findings, preserving archival materials and conducting research for diverse entities, including businesses, nonprofits, and historical associations. They offer expertise on preservation challenges and historical topics, contributing valuable insights to understanding the past and informing decision-making in various fields. |
| Sociologists[18] | Analytical, communication, and critical thinking skills. | $101,770 | 5% (faster than average) | Sociologists investigate human interactions, organizations, and behavior, exploring how social influences shape diverse groups and individuals. They analyze the impact of institutions and organizations on society, presenting their research findings through reports, articles, or presentations. Sociologists contribute to a deeper understanding of social dynamics and inform strategies for social change through their work. |
Certifications and Licensing for Online Ph.D. Anthropology Graduates
Certifications bolster expertise, enhancing credibility and employability. While not mandatory for all fields, they’re increasingly valued. In the USA, licensing for online Ph.D. students in Anthropology varies. Some states may require licensure for certain positions or specialties. Certifications offer a competitive edge and validate skills, but their necessity depends on career goals and regulatory requirements.
Additional Resources for Online Ph.D. Anthropology Graduates
Joining an association provides online Ph.D. in anthropology students with valuable resources, including career support and certification programs. Beyond that, accessing additional resources can offer insights into effective classroom management, teaching methods, and curriculum development. Such resources enrich the academic journey, fostering professional growth and enhancing expertise in the field. Here are some additional resources students enrolled in anthropology doctoral program can access:
| Title/Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| American Anthropological Association | The American Anthropological Association aims to build an anthropological community and assist professionals in navigating the terrain. Fellow members support various facets of their anthropological careers, providing information on mentorships, fellowships, internships, and more. |
| Society for Applied Anthropology | The Society for Applied Anthropology comprises members from diverse social science backgrounds operating in various settings. It features job postings from numerous employers, such as research organizations, universities, and governmental agencies. Additionally, it offers student travel awards, subsidized critical services, and networking opportunities, among other benefits. |
| The National Association for the Practice of Anthropology (NAPA) | NAPA supports the interests of applied and practicing anthropologists by offering a range of activities during annual meetings, including workshops, sessions, instant mentoring, networking events, and a careers Expo. They boast an excellent mentoring program and publish a journal in coordination with several social media outlets. |
| Society for Linguistic Anthropology | Members of the Society of Linguistic Anthropology have access to resources such as the Journal of Linguistic Anthropology, email lists, academic meetings, and awards for outstanding work. The society is affiliated with the American Anthropological Association. |
| Washington Association of Professional Anthropologists (WAPA) | WAPA serves as a social and professional resource and career development center for anthropologists seeking to apply their skills and knowledge. Members of this association gain access to social events, forums for exchanging ideas, monthly meetings, and experiences related to applying anthropological knowledge. |
FAQs About Online Ph.D. Anthropology Programs
Why should you do an online Ph.D. in anthropology?
Students can pursue such an advanced degree online and complete it independently. It will help them advance their careers. This program is most cost-effective for learners and more flexible than classroom courses. Individuals can complete the program without compromising other responsibilities like personal commitments, professional life, etc.
Is it compulsory to have a master’s in anthropology to apply to Ph.D. programs?
What kind of funding is available for Ph.D. in anthropology program?
What can you do with a Ph.D. in anthropology?
Is a Ph.D. in anthropology worth it?
What is the cost of an online Ph.D. in anthropology?
How much can a doctorate in anthropology make?
Citations:
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational outlook for Anthropologists
University of Pennsylvania-Penn Arts and Sciences
Case Western Reserve University
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Coursera: Big History-Connecting Knowledge
Edx: Anthropology of Current World Issues
Udemy: Forensic Anthropology – Skeletal analysis
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Survey Researchers
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Political Scientists
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Geographers
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Historians
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Sociologists