Anthropologists study different types of human experiences in the past and the present. They study how human beings lived hundred and thousands of years back using history and what was necessary in those times. They do analysis and study about our genes, bones, and health. Along with this, anthropologists compare humans with animals like monkeys and chimpanzees to find what we have in common with them and what makes humans special.
If you want to be an Anthropologist, let’s look at the various aspects, scope, and specializations of an Anthropology career in India. Anthropology is a
very wide field and is divided into many branches
very wide field and is divided into many branches. These are:
- Archaeology
- Linguistic Anthropology
- Cultural Anthropology
- Biological Anthropology.
Specializations in Anthropology
1. Archaeology
Archaeology deals with the study of the early and recent human past via physical remains. They study human life and the objects used by them in the past. Archaeologists may study the fossils of our million years old human ancestors in Africa. Or they can study buildings of the 20th century in New York City.
2. Linguistic Anthropology
Linguistic Anthropology is a branch of anthropology that deals with the role of languages in the social lives of people and communities. Linguistic anthropology examines how languages build communication. Languages have a great impact on social identity and in initiating cultural beliefs and ideologies. People in this field study how the languages originated and how words evolved. Their emphasis is on the development of speech which molds communication.
3. Cultural Anthropology
Cultural Anthropologists study in what way, people sharing a common cultural system manage and form the physical and social world near them and are regulated by those concepts, attitudes, and environments. Cultural anthropology is known for the research methods used in the study of human cultures. This field deals with cultural diversity among humans by paying attention to human culture, societies, and their growth. This incorporates the study of gender, class, race, kinship, and many other cultural elements.
4. Biological Anthropology
Biological Anthropology field deals with the biological and behavioral aspects of humans. They observe the transformation of humans, how they compromise with the environmental stresses like disasters, diseases, war, and population, etc, and win over them.
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Steps To Become An Anthropologist
Step 1:
Select either Science PCB or Humanities stream in class 12th to build a strong base for your higher studies. Two main reasons for this are, firstly, most colleges in India provide B.Sc. in Anthropology. Secondly, in Anthropology you have to face a lot of scientific techniques like carbon dating, genetics and bone chemistry, etc. So, choosing science subjects (especially biology) will help in a better understanding of this field afterward.
However, if you don’t want to study science, you can still make a career in Anthropology by choosing the Humanities stream. Subjects like History, Sociology, Psychology will give you an insight into human behavior, evolution, and culture, etc. which are the core of this field and thus help you in putting up a solid base for a career in anthropology.
Step 2:
Take Bachelor’s Degree in Anthropology. Many leading colleges in India provide B. Sc. / B.A. in Anthropology. Many Colleges/Institutes give admission to the candidates based on their Class 12th Percentage. Some institutes take entrance exams, so check their course and eligibility before taking the admission.
Step 3:
Do a Master’s in Anthropology. To get better job opportunities, you can pursue a Master’s, M.Phil, or Ph.D. in this subject. Strong academic credentials open up chances to work with organizations like the Planning Commission, Archeological Survey of India, and international organizations such as the United Nation’s UNICEF or UNESCO, etc.
Opportunities In The Field Of Anthropology In India
The career options after a degree in Anthropology are as follows:
In the Education Sector
After doing Masters in Anthropology, you can teach in the Department of Anthropology in different colleges & universities. For this, you have to qualify for the UGC-NET examination. The scope of research is always there. Anthropological Survey of India conducts fellowship programs for research for the aspirants.
In Advertising & Market Research
As businesses are following a global approach, it is important to be up-to-date with the altering marketplace and consumer’s attitude. Socio-cultural anthropologists are involved in research and fieldwork.
In Art Galleries, Museums & Publishing Houses
As they have a better understanding of people, their culture, customs, habits, etc., and also of multicultural study, anthropologists provide educational material to art galleries, museums, and publishing houses.
In Non-Profit Organizations
Anthropologists can work in the social sector or NGOs. They plan and execute different programs for tribes and other backward communities. Many anthropologists work in the local, group-based framework for non-profit agencies and organizations like UNICEF, WHO, and UNESCO, etc.
In Criminal Investigation Department
Forensic Anthropologists work with the police department for inquiring about a crime.