What is anthropology?

Anthropology is the study of humanity, including its origins, evolution, and current state. The field can be broken down into four smaller fields: cultural anthropology, linguistic anthropology, biological anthropology, and archaeology. Cultural anthropology focuses on how human cultures develop and change over time, covering subjects such as political and ideological shifts and economical patterns. Linguistic anthropology studies the ways in which human languages emerge, spread, and change. Biological anthropology focuses on the evolution of the human body, using related mammals and ancient fossil records to map out our physical development. Archaeology is the study of past societies, and it often involves piecing together clues from artifacts and historical sites.

What jobs can I get in anthropology?

Learning about anthropology can help prepare you for various jobs, including an anthropologist, human resources representative, social media manager, or translator. Anthropologists research and analyze data to further our understanding of humanity. They work in all sorts of environments, including exotic sites and academic settings. Human resources representatives can use their knowledge of culture and communities to create an efficient work environment. Social media managers and marketing experts are able to analyze demographic patterns and identify ways to reach target audiences. Translators use their knowledge of human cultures and language evolution to help people communicate and minimize misunderstandings.

Why is it important to learn about anthropology?

With knowledge of anthropology, we can identify humane, effective, and practical ways to solve modern problems, such as challenges in health, hunger, and education. Anthropology gives us an understanding of our origins and evolutionary path, and so it also allows us to predict how human culture, language, and biology may change in the future. The field gives us a better look at our similarities and differences, as well as the many ways in which we influence one another on an individual and societal level.

What are the benefits of taking an online Anthropology course?

Online Anthropology courses offer a convenient and flexible way to enhance your existing knowledge or learn new Anthropology skills. With a wide range of Anthropology classes, you can conveniently learn at your own pace to advance your Anthropology career.

What Anthropology courses are best for training and upskilling employees or the workforce?

When looking to enhance your workforce's skills in Anthropology, it's crucial to select a course that aligns with their current abilities and learning objectives. Our Skills Dashboard is an invaluable tool for identifying skill gaps and choosing the most appropriate course for effective upskilling. For a comprehensive understanding of how our courses can benefit your employees, explore the enterprise solutions we offer. Discover more about our tailored programs at Coursera for Business here .

Best Anthropology Courses & Certificates [2025]

Find the best Anthropology course for your goals

Status: Free Trial
Rice University
Introduction to Archaeology: Knowing The Past
Skills you'll gain: Ancient History, Anthropology, Scientific Methods, Peer Review, Social Sciences, Research, Science and Research, World History, Culture, Research Methodologies, Cultural Diversity
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
21 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Preview
Universiteit Leiden
Miracles of Human Language: An Introduction to Linguistics
Skills you'll gain: Language Competency, Language Learning, Anthropology, English Language, Communication Disorders, Cultural Diversity, Interviewing Skills, Vocabulary, Grammar, Cultural Sensitivity, Social Sciences, Sociology, Research Methodologies
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
2.5K reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Preview
University of Pennsylvania
Social Norms, Social Change I
Skills you'll gain: Sociology, Social Sciences, Economics, Policy, and Social Studies, Social Work, Public Policies, Cultural Diversity, Surveys, Qualitative Research, Data Collection, Research
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
2.1K reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Preview
The University of Chicago
Understanding the Brain: The Neurobiology of Everyday Life
Skills you'll gain: Neurology, Physiology, Anatomy, Behavioral Health, Mental and Behavioral Health, Mental Health Diseases and Disorders, Vital Signs, Control Systems, Coordination, Biology, Communication Systems
4.9
Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
3.2K reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Preview
Yale University
Moralities of Everyday Life
Skills you'll gain: Psychology, Research, Anthropology, Ethical Standards And Conduct, Cultural Diversity, Social Sciences, Sociology, Political Sciences, Child Development
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
3.4K reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Preview
Yale University
Introduction to Religions & Ecology
Skills you'll gain: Environmental Science, Environment, Social Justice, Culture, Sustainable Development, Anthropology, World History, Intercultural Competence, Ethical Standards And Conduct, Cultural Diversity, Climate Change Mitigation
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
61 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

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Status: Preview
Universitat de Barcelona
Magic in the Middle Ages
Skills you'll gain: European History, World History, Art History, Research, Investigation, Cultural Diversity, Anthropology
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
1.7K reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Preview
Fractal Analytics
Behavior Architecture - Understanding Human Behavior
Skills you'll gain: Case Studies, Decision Making, Human Learning, Applied Behavior Analysis, Behavior Management, Behavioral Economics, Human Development, Psychology, Critical Thinking, Empathy, Emotional Intelligence, Communication
4.5
Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
51 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free Trial
Rice University
Introduction to Archaeology
Skills you'll gain: Ancient History, Timelines, Public History, Social Justice, Anthropology, Scientific Methods, World History, Social Studies, Cultural Responsiveness, Liberal Arts, Sustainable Development, Peer Review, Environmental Science, Environmental Issue, Environment, Case Studies, General Science and Research, Health Equity, Social Sciences, Data Analysis
4.5
Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
27 reviews
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months
Status: New
Status: Free Trial
Lecturio
Psychology and Sociology
Skills you'll gain: Health Disparities, Stress Management, Social Determinants Of Health, Psychology, Sociology, Behavioral Health, Human Development, Cultural Diversity, Human Learning, Mental Health, Socioeconomics, Neurology, Biology, Non-Verbal Communication, Physiology
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
University of Colorado Boulder
Animals and Society
Skills you'll gain: Social Studies, Social Sciences, Sociology, Anthropology, Healthcare Ethics, Psychology, Laboratory Research, Behavioral Health, Mental Health, Research, Media and Communications, Ethical Standards And Conduct, Cultural Diversity, Food and Beverage, Rehabilitation, Environmental Issue, Biology, Non-Verbal Communication, Nutrition and Diet, Sports Medicine
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
208 reviews
Beginner · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
Rice University
Introduction to Biology: Ecology, Evolution, & Biodiversity
Skills you'll gain: Biology, Environment, Microbiology, Environmental Science, Life Sciences, Environmental Issue, Sustainable Development, Natural Resource Management, Physiology, Molecular Biology, Taxonomy, Cell Biology, Anatomy, Climate Change Adaptation, Estimation, Mathematical Modeling, Scientific Methods, Climate Change Mitigation, Experimentation, Case Studies
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
241 reviews
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months