Area, Ethnic, and Cultural Studies Teachers, Postsecondary

These educators teach college courses on the culture and development of specific groups or regions, covering topics such as women's studies, Latin American studies, or urban affairs. Their daily responsibilities combine teaching and training others with gathering information and thinking creatively to develop course objectives. They must document information, plan their work, and maintain strong interpersonal relationships with colleagues and students.

Success in this role requires strong skills in reading comprehension, instructing, speaking, and active listening. Instructors must also use critical thinking and social perceptiveness to guide students. Their work is grounded in several key knowledge areas, including sociology, anthropology, history, education, and foreign languages. Because their primary interest area is social, these professionals thrive on helping others and communicating ideas. They must demonstrate dependability, intellectual curiosity, innovation, and empathy while maintaining a high tolerance for ambiguity in academic discussions.

Entering this academic field typically requires extensive preparation. Candidates usually need a doctoral or professional degree, such as a PhD, to secure a position. Some individuals may enter the field with other graduate degrees, including a master's degree, MD, or JD.

Students preparing for this career often choose college majors focused on area studies, ethnic and cultural minority studies, gender studies, or anthropology. Other relevant fields of study include religion, historic preservation, classical studies, and intercultural diversity. While formal certifications are not standard for all college faculty, some educators may pursue credentials such as the LIUNA Instructor Certification offered by LIUNA Training and Education.

In 2025, the median annual pay for these postsecondary teachers was $85,020. Earnings vary based on experience and institution, with the lowest 10% earning less than $52,070 and the highest 10% earning more than $160,420.

There are 11,300 people employed in this field. Between 2025 and 2035, employment is projected to grow by 2.7%, which is as fast as the average for all occupations. This growth and normal staff turnover are expected to result in 1,000 job openings each year.