Employment of anthropologists and archeologists is expected to grow 21 percent from 2010 to 2020, faster than the average for all occupations. However, because it is a small occupation, the fast growth will result in only about 1,300 new jobs over the 10-year period. More anthropologists will be needed to research human life, history, and culture, and apply that knowledge to current issues.
In addition to traditional research areas, a growing number of corporations are increasingly relying on anthropological research. Specifically, corporations are expected to use anthropologists’ analyses to understand increasingly diverse workforces and markets, allowing businesses to better serve their clients or to target new customers.
Because anthropological research is highly dependent on the amount of research funding, federal budgetary decisions will affect the rate of employment growth in research.
Outside of research, employment of archeologists will be largely influenced by the level of construction activity. As construction projects increase, more archeologists will be needed to ensure that builders comply with federal regulations regarding the preservation of archeological and historical artifacts.
Overall job prospects for anthropologists and archeologists are expected to be competitive. Those with a Ph.D. and extensive experience doing anthropological or archeological fieldwork will have the best job opportunities.
Although job opportunities for anthropologists will expand in businesses, consulting firms, and other non-traditional settings, workers will face strong competition for jobs because of the small number of positions.
Archeologists should have the best job prospects in cultural resource management (CRM) firms. However, due to the large number of qualified graduates and relatively few positions available, jobseekers may face very strong competition.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2012-13 Edition