Area, Ethnic, and Cultural Studies Teachers, Postsecondary

Teach courses pertaining to the culture and development of an area, an ethnic group, or any other group, such as Latin American studies, women's studies, or urban affairs. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.

SOC: 25-1062.00

Common Job Titles

  • Assistant Professor
  • Associate Professor
  • Professor
  • Women's Studies Professor

What You'll Need to Succeed

AI-generated

Key competencies for this occupation at a glance

  • KnowledgeEvaluate scholarly literature on cultural, ethnic, and regional studies independently across multiple disciplines to inform course development and research.
  • KnowledgeDesign undergraduate and graduate curricula in area, ethnic, or cultural studies integrating interdisciplinary perspectives and current pedagogical approaches.
  • MindsetModel cultural sensitivity and inclusive pedagogical practices when teaching diverse student populations and addressing topics of identity, power, and social justice.
  • KnowledgeSynthesize historical, sociological, and anthropological frameworks to analyze cultural phenomena and developmental patterns of specific groups or regions.
  • KnowledgeDevelop original research on cultural identity, migration, or regional development for publication in peer-reviewed journals and academic conferences.
  • KnowledgeInterpret complex cultural texts, artifacts, and social movements for undergraduate and graduate audiences using multiple theoretical lenses.
  • MindsetEngage students in critical dialogue about controversial cultural and ethnic issues while maintaining an inclusive and respectful classroom environment.
  • KnowledgeAssess student learning outcomes in qualitative and quantitative assignments using culturally responsive evaluation methods aligned with disciplinary standards.
  • KnowledgeApply learning management systems and multimedia presentation tools to deliver synchronous and asynchronous instruction in postsecondary settings.
  • MindsetAdvocate for underrepresented perspectives in curriculum development and institutional policy when collaborating with departmental and campus-wide committees.
  • KnowledgeDemonstrate foreign language proficiency and cross-cultural communication skills to access primary sources and engage with international scholarly communities.
  • MindsetSupport student academic and professional development through mentorship, advising, and guidance on research projects and career pathways.

Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics

Annual wage data for Area, Ethnic, and Cultural Studies Teachers, Postsecondary (2024)

Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)

11,430

Wage Distribution by Percentile

Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $51,130. 25th percentile: U.S. $64,320. 50th percentile: U.S. $84,290. 75th percentile: U.S. $107,810. 90th percentile: U.S. $164,650. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.

  • U.S.
MetricU.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less$51,130
10% of workers earn the following or more$164,650
Workers on average earn$97,350

+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)

Skills & Requirements

Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance

  • Education and Training4.6/5
  • English Language4.6/5
  • Sociology and Anthropology3.7/5
  • History and Archeology3.6/5
  • Foreign Language3.5/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge

Tools & Technology

Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation

In-Demand Technology

Frequently requested by employers in job postings

  • Google Docs
  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft Office software
  • Microsoft Outlook
  • Microsoft PowerPoint
  • Microsoft Windows
  • Microsoft Word

Technology Skills

  • Blackboard Learn
  • Calendar and scheduling software
  • Collaborative editing software
  • Course management system software
  • DOC Cop
  • Desire2Learn LMS software
  • Email software
  • FileMaker Pro
Tools & Technology: Technology Skills

Tools & Equipment

  • Carousel slide projectors
  • Compact digital cameras
  • Compact disk CD players
  • Computer data input scanners
  • Computer laser printers
  • Computer projectors
  • Conference telephones
  • Desktop computers
Tools & Technology: Tools & Equipment