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Career Paths in Social and Cultural Anthropology

Graduates of social and cultural anthropology have a wide range of career opportunities, particularly in the field of complex sociocultural contexts and with a focus on the distinctive features of non-European societies. It is therefore worth exploring related career paths as well.

• The close connection to peace and conflict studies points to opportunities in conflict-affected regions - such as in South America, the Caucasus, or postcolonial contexts. Graduates’ in-depth ethnographic insights into causes, dynamics, and local peace processes can thus lead to careers in peace work, conflict mediation, development cooperation, or research.
• In fields related to cultural studies, anthropologists apply their expertise in museums, exhibition design, cultural education, or the documentation and preservation of intangible cultural heritage. They work on artistic projects, in visual and material cultural work, or on the development of intercultural communication strategies.
• There are several overlaps with the career paths for graduates in religious studies, as well as with the career paths in sociology.

Some specific career paths arise in social and cultural anthropology:

- Research
- Museums and archives
- Education
- Consulting

In some areas - such as museum and archival work - a doctoral degree or specialized continuing education will be required.

Note: The information used to compile the above list is based on information provided by the BERUFENET of the German Federal Employment Agency and surveys conducted with graduates of Marburg University. We would like to thank Edgar Losse for the suggestions and support.