The study of anthropology has seen a rise in interest from various industries in recent times. Companies such as Google, Silicon Valley and Lego are using anthropologists to conduct market and design research, with the technique of ethnography gaining popularity among multinational companies. Anthropology is the study of human behaviour, cultures, history and social organization, allowing for a deeper understanding of what it means to be human. Degree courses cover a variety of topics before specializing in social, cultural or linguistic anthropology, or biological anthropology, which either takes a sociological or scientific approach.
Archaeology involves studying the physical remains left behind by past human societies. Students may be examining Roman mosaics one day and analyzing the daily life of people who lived 5,000 years ago the next. The course provides practical skills in excavation, as well as the options to focus on biology or population studies.
Fieldwork, both domestic and international, is often required for research projects, with written exams, coursework, laboratory reports, and presentations being the primary means of assessment. Universities such as UCL use digital technology to approach anthropology with a contemporary perspective, studying the role of algorithms in the workplace and the effect social media and digital platforms have on social relationships.
While job prospects for archaeology students may be difficult to come by, opportunities to work as guides, curators, and conservators in museums or at heritage sites are still present. Anthropology students, on the other hand, have become increasingly sought after in recent years, with graduates finding work in design research, user experience, social research in think tanks, government, and various other sectors. Skills acquired during the course, such as deep knowledge of human societies and cultures, empathy, and curiosity, make anthropology graduates ideal for working in conservation, health, heritage, and international development or as a documentary filmmaker, museum assistant, librarian, social researcher, information scientist, or even for large companies such as Google and Lego.
Graduates will leave university with a better understanding of various cultures and populations, appealing to employers looking for individuals who possess critical thinking skills and creativity.
