Best Schools for Anthropology Teachers in 2024

Essential Education to Become an Anthropology Teacher

Embarking on a career as an Anthropology Teacher is a fulfilling path that allows you to explore and teach the complexities of human societies, cultures, and biological aspects across time. To set foot in this intriguing field, a solid educational foundation is paramount. Here's what you need to focus on:

Educational Requirements

To become an Anthropology Teacher, especially at the college or university level, you typically need:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Anthropology or Related Field: This is your first step into the world of anthropology. A bachelor's degree provides a comprehensive overview of cultural anthropology, archaeology, biological anthropology, and linguistic anthropology.

• Master’s Degree in Anthropology: Most postsecondary institutions require a master's degree at minimum. This advanced degree allows for specialization in a particular area of anthropology and involves more in-depth research and fieldwork.

• PhD in Anthropology: For those aspiring to tenure-track positions at universities or looking to influence the field significantly, a PhD is often essential. It involves conducting original research, completing a dissertation, and gaining extensive fieldwork experience.

Areas of Study or Concentration

The field of anthropology is broad, and specializing in a specific area can enhance your teaching career. Consider these concentrations:

• Cultural Anthropology: Focuses on understanding the cultural aspects of human societies, including traditions, rituals, and social structures.

• Archaeology: Involves the study of ancient and historical societies through their material remains such as artifacts, architecture, and landscapes.

• Biological Anthropology: Deals with the evolution of humans and their relatives, genetics, and biological diversity across time and space.

• Linguistic Anthropology: Examines language's role in social life, including how language shapes communication, identity, and group membership.

• Medical Anthropology: Explores health, illness, and healing practices within different cultural contexts.

Additional Qualifications

Beyond formal education, consider these additional qualifications to stand out:

• Fieldwork Experience: Hands-on experience in anthropological research or projects is invaluable. It can come from your academic studies or volunteer work.

• Teaching Certification: Depending on the level you wish to teach at (especially for high school teaching positions), a state teaching certification may be required.

• Continued Learning: Stay updated with the latest research and methodologies in anthropology by attending workshops, seminars, and courses.

By focusing on these educational pathways and areas of concentration, you're laying a strong foundation for a successful career as an Anthropology Teacher. Remember, the journey doesn't stop with obtaining your degrees; it's a continuous process of learning, researching, and engaging with both the academic community and the cultures you study.

Anthropology Teacher Education Resources

Professional Associations

Joining a professional association is a fantastic way to connect with fellow educators, stay updated on the latest research, and find professional development opportunities. Here are some you might consider:

• American Anthropological Association (AAA): The AAA is one of the world's largest organizations for anthropologists, offering resources, publications, and conferences to help you stay at the forefront of anthropological education. Visit AAA

• National Association for the Practice of Anthropology (NAPA): A section of the AAA, NAPA focuses on promoting the practice of anthropology and applying its methods and insights to current societal issues. This can be a valuable resource for educators looking to connect theory with real-world applications. Visit NAPA

• Society for Applied Anthropology (SfAA): This international organization promotes the integration of anthropological perspectives and methods in solving human problems across the globe. It's a great resource for teachers looking to highlight applied anthropology in their curriculum. Visit SfAA

Industry Publications

Staying informed about the latest research and trends in anthropology can greatly enrich your teaching. Here are some publications that can keep you in the know:

• Anthropology News: Published by the AAA, this news outlet offers articles, commentary, and research findings relevant to anthropologists and anthropology educators. Read Anthropology News

• American Anthropologist: Also an AAA publication, this journal provides in-depth articles on current anthropological research, which can serve as excellent teaching materials or inspire new classroom discussions. Explore American Anthropologist

• Teaching Anthropology: A publication from the Royal Anthropological Institute, this focuses specifically on pedagogy in anthropology, offering insights into teaching methods, curriculum development, and more. Discover Teaching Anthropology

Online Resources and Platforms

In addition to traditional publications and associations, several online platforms offer valuable resources for anthropology teachers:

• AnthroSource: Operated by the AAA, AnthroSource provides access to a wide range of journals and articles in anthropology, making it an invaluable resource for keeping your curriculum current. Access AnthroSource

• JSTOR: While not specific to anthropology, JSTOR's extensive database includes numerous anthropology journals and publications. It's an excellent resource for research and finding reading materials for your courses. Visit JSTOR

• Career.Guide: While we may not specialize exclusively in anthropology education, Career.Guide offers a wealth of resources on educational career paths, including how to become an anthropology teacher. From certification guides to job outlook information, we're here to help you navigate your career journey in anthropology education. Explore Career.Guide

By leveraging these associations, publications, and online resources, you'll be well-equipped to inspire your students with innovative and engaging anthropology lessons. Whether you're looking to deepen your knowledge base, connect with fellow educators, or find new ways to bring anthropology to life in the classroom, these resources offer a wealth of information and support to help you succeed as an anthropology teacher.

Anthropology Teacher Education FAQs

What degree do I need to become an anthropology teacher?

• For high school teaching positions, a bachelor's degree in anthropology with a teaching certificate is often sufficient.
• College or university-level teaching typically requires a master's degree or Ph.D. in anthropology.

What subjects should I focus on in my degree?

• Cultural anthropology
• Biological (or physical) anthropology
• Archaeology
• Linguistic anthropology
• Anthropological research methods
• Ethnography

Are there any specific courses or certifications I should consider?

• Courses in pedagogy and education, if you're aiming for a high school teaching position.
• Specialized courses or certifications in your area of interest within anthropology, such as forensic anthropology or medical anthropology, can enhance your expertise and appeal to employers.
• For college-level teaching, consider courses that improve your research skills and methodologies.

How important is fieldwork in my education?

• Fieldwork is crucial in anthropology and provides hands-on experience that can be invaluable in teaching.
• It demonstrates your ability to apply anthropological theories and methods in real-world settings.
• Some education programs may require a certain number of fieldwork hours for graduation.

What skills are essential for an anthropology teacher?

• Strong communication skills for effective teaching and engagement with students.
• Critical thinking and analytical skills to evaluate information and develop new insights into human behavior and cultures.
• Patience and adaptability, as working with diverse student populations can present challenges.
• Organizational skills for managing classroom activities, grading, and preparing lesson plans.

How can I gain teaching experience during my education?

• Participate in teaching assistantships if you're in a graduate program.
• Volunteer or intern as an educator at museums, historical sites, or community centers.
• Engage in tutoring opportunities, either independently or through your university.

Is continuing education important for an anthropology teacher?

• Yes, continuing education helps you stay updated on the latest research and developments in anthropology.
• Professional development workshops and conferences are great ways to network and learn new teaching strategies.
• Some states require continuing education credits for teacher certification renewal.

What professional organizations should I consider joining?

• American Anthropological Association (AAA) offers resources, networking opportunities, and conferences for professionals.
• Society for American Archaeology (SAA) is ideal for those focusing on archaeology.
• National Association for the Practice of Anthropology (NAPA) provides support for anthropologists working outside of academia.

Remember, becoming an anthropology teacher is a rewarding career that allows you to explore and share the complexities of human cultures and societies. Your educational path should reflect not only the necessary academic qualifications but also a commitment to ongoing learning and a passion for teaching.