In this article, we highlight the 30 best online bachelor’s in anthropology degree programs and related disciplines.
Anthropology is the study of humans in past and present societies. Various subfields of anthropology include:
Featured Programs
- social
- cultural
- linguistic
According to the American Anthropological Association and the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for anthropologists is expected to grow approximately 19 percent between now and 2022. Academic, corporate, and government agencies are likely to hire anthropology graduates in upcoming years based on this expected growth.
Methodology
We examined 119 accredited institutions that offer online bachelor’s degrees in:
- anthropology
- social science with anthropology concentration
- related programs
From our list, we selected schools that had earned rankings or recognition from major publications like Forbes magazine, The Princeton Review, or U.S. News and World Report. We then listed the school in order of affordability based on the latest undergraduate tuition rates published by NCES College Navigator.
Below are the resulting selections for our top 30 best online bachelor’s in anthropology and related degree programs.
#30 – Southern New Hampshire University
Online Bachelor’s in Anthropology
Manchester, New Hampshire
Undergraduate tuition: $30,386
Southern New Hampshire University’s online bachelor’s in anthropology degree program offers holistic studies about:
- biology
- culture
- archeology
The degree program bridges the sciences with the humanities. It provides an understanding of how people can live efficiently in their environment. The program is entirely online and includes classes in:
- anthropology in the contemporary world
- earth system science
- ethics in anthropology
- human origins and evolution
- introduction to cultural anthropology
- the human experience
Two concentration areas are available. They include environmental science and geospatial technologies. Southern New Hampshire University ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 131st best regional university in the North. The school has also been recognized as being the #1 most innovative school.
#29 – Upper Iowa University
Fayette, Iowa
Undergraduate tuition: $28,073
An alternative to the bachelor of anthropology online degree program is offered at Upper Iowa University. The online social science degree is designed for students interested in:
- history
- government
- psychology
- sociology
- anthropology
The online, self-paced program covers a broad based spectrum of studies. It provides opportunities to specialize in particular areas of interest. Online courses include:
- globalization
- political anthropology
- political sociology
- social psychology
- social stratification
- social welfare programs and policies
Upper Iowa is a regionally ranked institution, according to major publications like U.S. News and World Report. Also, in the 2016 edition of Best Colleges, the school’s online bachelor’s programs have been ranked #128 out of more than 1,200 programs.
#28 – Removed by Editor
#27 – Pennsylvania State World Campus
University Park, Pennsylvania
Undergraduate tuition: $13,516
Pennsylvania State University’s World Campus offers an alternative to the online bachelor’s in anthropology degree. The online bachelor’s in integrated social sciences is a flexible program that integrates studies in:
- anthropology
- communication arts
- economics
- political science
- psychology
- sociology
Students take online courses in:
- ethics
- quantification
- research methods
- statistics
There are also introductory classes in humanities and social and behavioral sciences. An independent studies course and experiential learning portfolio are also required for graduation. Penn State is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the 2016 edition of Best Colleges ranks the school as the 47th best national university and the 14th top public school.
#26 – University of Massachusetts
Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Anthropology Online
North Dartmouth, Massachusetts
Undergraduate tuition: $12,588
The University of Massachusetts offers a bachelor of anthropology online degree program that combines anthropology and sociology studies. The program is offered in a hybrid format with a blend of online and face-to-face classes. Students are required to complete a three-credit internship as part of the course work. The internship may be completed in the student’s geographic location, but must be approved by the department. Sample courses required by the program include:
- anthropological theory
- introduction to cultural anthropology
- introduction to social and cultural behavior
- research methods
- sociological theory
The institution is accredited and ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 83rd best regional university in the North. Also, the online bachelor’s programs rank #70 in the nation.
#25 – Brandman University
Irvine, California
Undergraduate tuition: $12,240
Online bachelor’s of anthropology degree alternatives include the bachelor’s in social science. Brandman University offers an online BA in social science program that unites diverse areas of:
- cultural studies
- economic studies
- political studies
- social studies
Online courses include:
- globalization and social change
- introduction to psychology
- introduction to sociology, social and political theory
- social research design
Concentration areas may also be selected. Brandman is an accredited institution with programs that have earned recognition by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the 2016 edition of Best Colleges lists the school’s online bachelor’s programs #47 in the country.
#24 – Washington State University
Pullman, Washington
Undergraduate tuition: $11,967
Washington State University offers an alternative to the traditional bachelor of arts in anthropology online program. Now, students can earn an online bachelor’s in social sciences with a concentration in anthropology. All courses are available online and include:
- inquiry in the humanities
- quantitative reasoning
- roots of contemporary issues
Writing and foreign language courses are also required. WSU is a nationally accredited and ranked institution. In fact, U.S. News and World Report ranks the school as the 140th best national university in the country. Also, the school’s online bachelor’s programs rank #34 out of more than 1,200 similar programs.
#23 – University of Washington
Seattle, Washington
Undergraduate tuition: $11,839
University of Washington offers a unique program for those interested in a bachelor’s in anthropology online degree. The online integrated social sciences degree program allows students to gain knowledge in various social science disciplines like:
- anthropology
- psychology
- sociology
Required courses include:
- diversity and global justice
- integrated social sciences
- social science theory in context
- societies and environments
- survey of social science methods
The University of Washington is a nationally ranked institution. In fact, U.S. News and World Report ranks the school as the 52nd best national university in the country. Additional rankings include:
- #11 for best global universities
- #8 for best social sciences and public health programs,
- #16 for top public schools.
#22 – Franklin University
Columbus, Ohio
Undergraduate tuition: $11,641
Instead of an online bachelor’s in anthropology degree, students attending Franklin University can complete an online bachelor’s in social sciences. The program offers a well-rounded curriculum that covers topics in:
- business economics
- social justice
- anthropology
Courses are delivered online and include:
- applied research methods
- creative thinking
- cultural anthropology
- philosophy of science
- special topics in anthropology
Students also have the option of minoring in various disciplines such as:
- criminal justice
- global business
- performance management
Franklin is a private institution that has earned recognition from major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the 2016 edition of Best Colleges ranks the school as having the 106th best online bachelor’s programs in the country.
#21 – Removed by editor.
#20 – Colorado State University
Online Bachelor’s in Anthropology
Fort Collins, Colorado
Undergraduate tuition: $10,558
Colorado State University’s bachelor of anthropology online degree program offers an intersectional study of humanities and social sciences. All courses are delivered online and include topics in:
- archaeology
- general anthropology
- geography
Required courses include:
- human origins and variation
- introduction to cultural anthropology
- introduction to prehistory
- modernization and development
- urban geography
Colorado State is a nationally ranked institution by major publications like Forbes magazine and U.S. News and World Report. In fact, U.S. News ranks the school as the 127th best national university. Also, the school’s online bachelor’s programs rank #86 in the nation.
#19 – Arizona State University
Online Bachelor’s in Anthropology
Tempe, Arizona
Undergraduate tuition: $10,158
Arizona State University offers the affordable bachelor of arts in anthropology online program. It focuses on diverse fields of study, including biological and social sciences and the humanities. All courses are delivered online and include topics that explore:
- disease and human evolution
- food and culture
- global history of health
- medical anthropology
- urban and environmental health
Students learn how to apply the scientific method and test hypotheses by analyzing and extracting data. ASU is a nationally accredited and ranked institution. In fact, U.S. News and World Report ranks the school as the 129th best national university in the country. Also, the online bachelor’s programs at ASU rank #11 in the nation.
#18 – Oregon State University
Online Bachelor’s in Anthropology
Corvallis, Oregon
Undergraduate tuition: $10,107
Oregon State University offers an online bachelor’s in anthropology degree program. It is designed to bridge sciences and humanities while cultivating independent and self-paced studies. All classes are delivered online. Students receive the same diploma as on-campus students. Required courses include:
- cultures in conflict
- forensic anthropology
- natural resources and community values
- peoples of the world
- wealth and poverty
The program also offers four options to focus anthropology studies. These include:
- archaeology
- biocultural, cultural and linguistic
- general option
OSU is ranked by major publications like Forbes magazine and U.S. News and World Report. In the 2016 edition of Best Colleges, U.S. News ranks the school as the 135th best national university. Also, the online bachelor’s programs rank #7 in the country.
#17 – University of Colorado
Online Bachelor’s in Sociology with Minor in Anthropology
Denver, Colorado
Undergraduate tuition: $8,692
Students interested in pursuing an online anthropology degree can major in sociology at the University of Colorado and earn a minor in anthropology. UC Denver’s new online minor in anthropology allows students to focus on an area of interest while completing a minor that emphasizes cultural and international awareness. The program focuses on:
- archaeology
- biological anthropology
- cultural anthropology
The University of Colorado is accredited and nationally ranked with major publications like Forbes magazine and U.S. News and World Report. The 2016 edition of Best Colleges lists the school as the 199th best national university and the 194th best global university.
#16 – Central Washington University
Ellensburg, Washington
Undergraduate tuition: $8,688
Central Washington University offers a unique program similar to an online bachelor’s of anthropology. This program is student-designed. It’s meant for those who wish to take an active role in determining their studies. Students are required to take courses in at least three disciplines, which may include:
- anthropology
- sociology
- another major
Online courses vary depending on the student’s major selection. Central Washington University is ranked regionally by U.S. News and World Report. In the 2016 edition of Best Colleges, the institution was ranked #52 among the best regional universities in the West. Also, the school’s online bachelor’s programs rank #195 out of more than 1,200 similar programs.
#15 – Portland State University
Portland, Oregon
Undergraduate tuition: $8,034
An alternative to the bachelor’s in anthropology online programs is found at Portland State University. The online bachelor’s in social science program prepares students for careers in all areas of social science, including anthropology. All courses are delivered online and include:
- introduction to social and cultural anthropology
- introduction to sociology
- minorities
- principles of economics
- United States and Canada
- women in the Middle East
A personalized degree plan is designed by the student with the assistance of an academic advisor. Portland State University is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. It is recognized as being one of the most innovative schools. The online bachelor’s programs have also earned recognition.
#14 – University of North Dakota
Grand Forks, North Dakota
Undergraduate tuition: $7,965
An online anthropology degree or related program such as the one offered at University of North Dakota can open opportunities to entry-level social science careers. The University of North Dakota offers an online bachelor’s in social science program that may be completed entirely via distance learning. Six focus areas allow students to delve deep into a single area of interest. Focus areas include:
- anthropology
- economics
- geography
- history
- political science
- sociology
The program is considered to be one of the most affordable of its kind. Regardless of residency, online students benefit from in-state tuition rates. The University of North Dakota is also ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the 2016 edition of Best Colleges lists the school as the 180th best national university.
#13 – Troy University
Online Bachelor’s in Anthropology
Troy, Alabama
Undergraduate tuition: $7,924
Troy University’s bachelor of arts in anthropology online program prepares students through various courses in cultural anthropology and archaeology. The program may be completed entirely online and on a part-time or full-time basis. Anthropology majors are required to take classes such as:
- cultural anthropology
- introduction to archeology
- language in culture and society
- physical anthropology
- spatial applications of social science inquiry
Troy University is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 65th best regional university in the country and the 27th top public school. The online bachelor’s programs rank #100 out of more than 1,200.
#12 – Eastern Oregon University
Online Bachelor’s in Anthropology and Sociology
La Grande, Oregon
Undergraduate tuition: $7,764
Eastern Oregon University’s bachelor’s in anthropology online degree program offers three concentrations. Students may focus their major on:
- anthropology
- sociology
- social welfare
Online courses include:
- cultural anthropology
- environmental anthropology
- human variations
- native peoples of North America
- Oregon archaeology
- women in poor countries
The same professors who teach on campus also teach the online courses. Aside from classes, students are required to successfully complete a senior paper, project, or practicum in one area of concentration. Eastern Oregon University is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as a top regional university. Also, the online bachelor’s degree programs rank #63 in the nation.
#11 – Removed by Editor
#10 – Tennessee State University
Online Bachelor’s in Interdisciplinary Studies – Cultural Diversity
Nashville, Tennessee
Undergraduate tuition: $7,112
Interested in an online bachelor’s in anthropology degree program? Tennessee State University provides a unique option. Students may earn an online bachelor’s in interdisciplinary studies with a concentration in cultural diversity. Aside from classes, a culminating senior project is required. Students may also participate in an internship in their geographic location to satisfy some credit requirements. Tennessee State is a nationally ranked institution and an esteemed historically black college. U.S. News and World Report has ranked the school in several categories. Several of the institution’s graduate programs, including public affairs and social sciences, have earned recognition.
#9 – University of Maryland University College
Adelphi, Maryland
Undergraduate tuition: $7,056
The University of Maryland University College offers an alternative to the online bachelor’s in anthropology degree program. Students may earn a social science bachelor’s entirely online. It incorporates classes from disciplines like:
- anthropology
- psychology
- sociology
- statistics
Students take courses that include:
- cultural anthropology
- diversity awareness
- introduction to contemporary issues in aging
- peoples and cultures of East Asia
- workplace learning in anthropology
Students may choose to focus their studies in anthropology by taking 12 credits in this area of interest. The University of Maryland has earned recognition from major publications like U.S. News and World Report as a top regional university in the North.
#8 – Southeast Missouri State University
Cape Girardeau, Missouri
Undergraduate tuition: $6,990
An alternative to the online anthropology degree is an online bachelor’s in social science that allows students to focus their studies on anthropology. This degree type is offered at Southeast Missouri State University. It’s for busy students who want the flexibility of online learning. Students majoring in social science have the option of selecting anthropology as their concentration. At least 15 hours must be taken in the area of focus. Required online courses include:
- elementary probability and statistics
- problems in social science
- social science research methods
- statistical reasoning
- survey of social science
Southeast Missouri State is ranked by Forbes magazine and U.S. News and World Report as a top school. In fact, the 2016 edition of Best Colleges lists the institution as the 92nd best regional university in the Midwest. Also, the school’s online bachelor’s programs rank #58 in the country.
#7 – University of Nevada
Las Vegas, Nevada
Undergraduate tuition: $6,943
University of Nevada offers an online bachelor’s in social science studies. It’s an alternative to the bachelor of anthropology online program. Students gain a social science background and have the option of concentrating their studies in anthropology. Students are required to take:
- nine credits of social science
- six credits of foreign language or foreign culture
- three additional fine arts credits
Core requirements include:
- interdisciplinary inquiry
- research methods
- interdisciplinary studies
UNLV is a nationally ranked and recognized institution. In fact, U.S. News and World Report ranks the school as among the best national universities in the country. For those interested in graduate studies, the school’s social sciences programs are ranked in the top 100.
#6 – Florida International University
Online BA in Sociology and Anthropology
Miami, Florida
Undergraduate tuition: $6,556
Students can earn an online bachelor’s of anthropology and sociology from Florida International University. It emphasizes scientific study and social life. The degree program is fully online. Courses are offered at convenient times to accommodate student schedules. Online courses include:
- advanced research methods
- social theory
- societies in the world
- sociological theories
Upper level courses include:
- two additional sociology classes
- one anthropology class
- one geography class
Florida International University is nationally ranked. In fact, major publications like U.S. News and World Report list the school as one of the best national universities in the country. Also, the online bachelor’s programs rank #100 out of more than 1,200 similar programs.
#5 – University of Central Florida
Online Bachelor’s in Anthropology
Orlando, Florida
Undergraduate tuition: $6,368
The College of Sciences at University of Central Florida offers a bachelor’s in anthropology online degree program. It includes the study of various subfields of anthropology. These areas include:
- archeology
- cultural anthropology
- linguistics
- physical anthropology
The program may be completed entirely online and includes courses in:
- archeology and the rise of human culture
- cultural anthropology – global perspectives and local contexts
- history of anthropological thought
- language and culture
The school and its bachelor’s programs have earned recognition by major publications. U.S. News and World Report ranks the school as the 168th best national university and as having the 20th best online bachelor’s programs in the country.
#4 – University of Alaska Southeast
Juneau, Alaska
Undergraduate tuition: $6,132
University of Alaska Southeast offers a unique online bachelor’s in social science with a concentration in anthropology. The interdisciplinary degree program helps students to gain insight into various social sciences while honing a particular area of interest. Required courses include:
- archives and museums theory and practice
- biological anthropology
- cultural anthropology
- ethnohistory
- introduction to sociology
Students who choose anthropology as their primary concentration must complete at least 12 credits of upper division anthro courses. The university and its programs are accredited. The school has received recognition from major publications like U.S. News and World Report.
#3 – Columbus State University
Columbus, Georgia
Undergraduate tuition: $6,011
Those interested in an online anthropology degree may choose the bachelor’s in humanities and social science at Columbus State University. The program may be completed entirely online and provides a focus of interdisciplinary studies, which includes anthropology. Online courses may include:
- ancient world civilizations
- cultural anthropology
- discovering archeology
- human origins
- language and culture
- world regional geography
Columbus State is an accredited institution and has earned recognition from major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, U.S. News ranks the school as among the best regional universities in the South. The school’s online bachelor’s programs have also been recognized.
#2 – University of Houston Clear Lake
Online BS in Anthropology
Houston, Texas
Undergraduate tuition: $5,802
Students may earn a bachelor of anthropology online from the University of Houston at Clear Lake. This program provides students interested in the social sciences with flexible learning options. Students are required to have completed freshman and sophomore level courses prior to enrolling in the online portion of the program. However, the degree is available via distance learning. Online courses explore topics in:
- cultural anthropology
- economics
- linguistics
- sociology
The institution is regionally ranked by major publications like Forbes magazine and U.S. News and World Report. In fact, U.S. News ranks the school as the 81st best regional university in the West. In recent years, the school’s online bachelor’s programs have also earned recognition.
#1 – University of Florida
Online Bachelor’s in Anthropology
Gainesville, Florida
Undergraduate tuition: $3,876
The University of Florida offers a bachelor’s in anthropology that can be completed entirely online. Four major subfields are available for students to focus their studies. These concentration areas include:
- archaeology
- biological anthropology
- cultural anthropology
- linguistics
Students must earn 34 credits in anthropology coursework, which may include classes in:
- cultural anthropology
- introduction to biological anthropology
- introduction to world archaeology
- language and culture
The University of Florida has earned national recognition for being one of the top universities in the country. In fact, U.S. News and World Report ranks the school as the 47th best national university. Also, the online bachelor’s programs rank #11 out of 1,200. The University of Florida is our most affordable school for offering online bachelor’s degrees in anthropology.
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By BDP Staff