Anthropology at NIU
Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science
Explore human connections and creations across time.
Anthropologists search for clues about the past in order to understand the present and inform the future. By studying anthropology, you'll gain in-depth knowledge of the study of humans and an appreciation for our cultural diversity. You can get hands-on experience in our Pick Museum of Anthropology, which offers many opportunities for research.
Meet Leila Porter, an anthropology professor whose goal is to establish “an international network of faculty and students working to protect endangered primates and other wildlife in the Bolivian tropics.”
What Can I Do With an Anthropology Degree From NIU?
Your degree will prepare you to excel in our multicultural world and global economy, in areas like teaching, research and nonprofit management. Businesses are also relying more on anthropological research to connect with consumers, increasing access to jobs in the corporate world.
Top skills reported by alumni:
- Business development
- Leadership
- Management
- Nonprofit organization
- Research
Top fields alumni work in:
- Arts and entertainment
- Education
- Consulting
- Information technology
- Research
Other Programs to Consider
Career Potential for NIU Anthropology Majors
Average mid-career salary:
$77,936
Top employers include:
- Apple
- Argonne National Laboratory
- Ascension
- Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago
- Walgreens
Job titles include:
- Account executive
- Manager
- Marketing director
- Owner
- Supervisor
Source: Steppingblocks, 2023
What to Expect as an Anthropology Major at NIU
As you explore the linguistic, biological and cultural aspects of anthropology, you'll have many opportunities to get involved. You can work with professors who conduct research in places like Madagascar, Kenya and Italy, or visit museums and go camping with the Anthropology Club.
How We’ll Help You Succeed
Apply for free and we’ll automatically consider you for a renewable merit scholarship.
Earn your bachelor’s degree fast with our affordable tuition and fees. Any credit hours you take over 12 are free (per semester).
Prepare to thrive after graduation with personalized support from Career Services.
With our truth-in-tuition policy, you’ll get the same fixed tuition rate for four continuous years, whether you live in Illinois or another state.
Apply to NIU
First-year Students
(Freshman)
High School GPA
3.0 or higher?
You're guaranteed general NIU admission.
ACT/SAT SCORES
Not considered.
We think your high school GPA is a better predictor of your success.
Transfer Students
ALL COLLEGES GPA
2.0 or higher?
You're guaranteed general NIU admission.
ALL COLLEGES GPA
3.0 or higher?
You're guaranteed a
renewable merit scholarship.