Anthropology is the study of humankind in all times and places. It is perhaps the broadest of the liberal arts disciplines in the scope of its focus on humanity. A major in anthropology offers opportunities to learn about the diverse people of today’s world, as well as about their biological and cultural origins. This area of study deals with ecology, society, biology, culture, language and other aspects of human life. In addition, anthropologists study history and evolution in both a cultural and biological framework.
Our majors have a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of social relationships, cultural frameworks and ethnic groups necessary for improving cross-cultural understanding. This strong background across the anthropological sub disciplines qualifies them for employment in a wide range of markets.
Career opportunities in Anthropology
Anthropology majors learn about the diverse people of today’s world, as well as about their biological and cultural origins. Majors explore aspects of human life such as ecology, society, biology, culture, and language. Anthropologists also study history and evolution in both a cultural and biological framework.
Any student earning a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree must complete a minimum of 39 hours at the 300+ level. These hours are generally completed by the major requirements. However, keep this hour requirement in mind as you choose your course work for the requirements in the major. Students interested in earning a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree must complete a minimum of 60 hours in biological, physical, mathematical and/or computer sciences. See the complete description of College requirements for a Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Sciences degrees in the Arts and Sciences section of the 2015-2016 Undergraduate Bulletin.
Total Credit Hours - 30
Core Requirements
Anthropology Electives
Course Work from outside the Department
Total Hours – 39
Anthropologists and archeologists study the origin, development, and behavior of humans.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics | Click the link for more info.
Median Salary
$63,800
per year in 2023
Number of Jobs
8,000
in 2023
10 Year Job Outlook
300
new jobs (average)
Anthropologists and archeologists typically work in offices, in laboratories, or in the field. Fieldwork may require travel for extended periods.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
Read MoreUnderstanding that over 70 percent of university students will change their declared major at least once during their college careers, the College of Arts and Sciences has developed an Exploratory Studies program for students who have yet to decide the specific field of study that most closely aligns both their personal interests and their professional career goals and objectives. The Exploratory Studies Program provides students with an extraordinarily diverse educational environment that includes coursework spanning Math and Natural Sciences, Humanities, and Social Sciences and provides students with the unique opportunity to explore multiple areas of interest during their first several semesters on campus. For more information please contact a recruiting representative at asrecruting@uky.edu.
While there are endless ways to create an unforgettable journey as a Wildcat, we can only think of one that gives you the chance to step outside the classroom and into exploring new parts of the world around you: participating in an Education Abroad opportunity! Whether it’s in a study, research, service, or internship program, taking your UK experience international with EA is the most hands-on way for you to expand your global perspective while making yourself a more well-rounded, marketable candidate to future employers no matter your field. As you take these first steps towards investing in your future, EA encourages you to take advantage of all the opportunities UK has to offer. Take a look at some of the many suggested opportunities UK Education Abroad & Exchanges has to complement your major! #ukyabroad
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