Classics Professor Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the world of academia, the role of a Classics Professor has never been more significant.
As we strive to understand our past to inform our future, the demand for knowledgeable and passionate individuals who can guide us through the intricate labyrinth of ancient civilizations continues to grow.
But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a Classics Professor?
Whether you are:
- An academic aspirant seeking to comprehend the nature of this role,
- A hiring committee crafting the profile of the ideal candidate,
- Or simply captivated by the fascinating world of classical studies,
You’ve come to the right place.
Today, we present a customizable Classics Professor job description template, structured for easy posting on academic job boards or university career sites.
Let’s begin this scholarly journey.
Classics Professor Duties and Responsibilities
Classics Professors are subject matter experts in classical studies, including ancient Greek and Roman history, culture, philosophy, and languages.
They are responsible for educating students, carrying out research, and contributing to the academic community.
Their duties and responsibilities include:
- Planning and delivering lectures on topics such as ancient Greek and Roman history, literature, philosophy, and art
- Developing and updating curriculum in line with current trends and discoveries in classical studies
- Conducting scholarly research and publishing findings in academic journals
- Guiding and supervising student research projects and theses
- Assessing student work, grading exams, and providing feedback
- Advising students on academic and career paths
- Participating in departmental meetings and contributing to curriculum planning
- Engaging in continuous professional development and staying abreast of new research and developments in the field of classical studies
- Contributing to the broader academic community through participation in conferences, seminars, and workshops
Classics Professor Job Description Template
Job Brief
We are seeking an experienced and dedicated Classics Professor to join our faculty.
The successful candidate will be responsible for teaching a range of classical courses including but not limited to ancient history, classical literature, and classical language studies.
Our ideal candidate will have a deep knowledge of classical civilization, an exceptional ability to engage students, and a commitment to developing and enhancing our Classics Department.
Responsibilities
- Develop and deliver engaging lectures on various aspects of classical civilization
- Prepare course materials such as syllabi, homework assignments, and handouts
- Evaluate and grade students’ class work, assignments, and papers
- Conduct research in a particular field of knowledge and publish findings in professional journals, books, or electronic media
- Keep abreast of developments in the field by reading current literature, talking with colleagues, and participating in professional conferences
- Advise students on academic and vocational curricula, and on career issues
- Collaborate with colleagues to address teaching and research issues
- Participate in campus and community events
Qualifications
- PhD in Classics or related field
- Proven experience as a professor in the field of classics
- Strong publication record in the field of classical studies
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Demonstrated ability to engage and inspire students
- Knowledge of instructional strategies and techniques appropriate for teaching classics
Benefits
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- Retirement plan
- Paid time off
- Tuition assistance
- Professional development opportunities
Additional Information
- Job Title: Classics Professor
- Work Environment: University campus. Some travel may be required for conferences and professional development opportunities.
- Reporting Structure: Reports to the Head of the Classics Department.
- Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
- Pay Range: $60,000 minimum to $100,000 maximum
- Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
- Employment Type: Full-time
- Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our university. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
- Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience, and a list of publications to [email address or application portal].
What Does a Classics Professor Do?
A Classics Professor typically works in universities or other higher educational institutions, focusing on the study and teaching of ancient cultures, literature, philosophy, and languages, such as Latin and Ancient Greek.
They create curriculum and lesson plans, and conduct lectures and seminars, where they share their knowledge of ancient civilizations like Rome and Greece.
This may involve discussing ancient literature, philosophy, art, archaeology, and history, as well as teaching students how to translate and interpret ancient languages.
Classics Professors often engage in research and continuous study in their field, keeping up with the latest archaeological findings and theoretical developments.
They may publish their research in academic journals, present at conferences, or write books on their area of expertise.
They also hold office hours for students to discuss course material or provide guidance on academic career paths.
Additionally, they often sit on academic committees and contribute to the broader academic community.
Classics Professors may be involved in organizing or leading student trips to relevant locations, such as archaeological sites or museums, to offer students an immersive learning experience.
They also evaluate students’ performance through assignments, examinations, and presentations, providing feedback and grades.
In addition, they may supervise postgraduate students’ research and theses in the classics field.
Classics Professor Qualifications and Skills
A Classics Professor requires a specific set of skills and qualifications, involving a combination of academic knowledge, teaching proficiency, and communication ability, such as:
- Extensive knowledge and understanding of classical languages, civilizations, literature, and archaeology, to teach a diverse range of classics courses.
- Strong research skills to contribute to the field of Classics through publication of original work, thereby staying current with the latest theories and developments.
- Excellent teaching skills to effectively deliver lectures, lead seminars, and inspire students to engage with the subject matter.
- Ability to develop and implement effective curriculum and lesson plans that cater to a diverse student population with varying academic needs.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills to convey complex concepts in a clear and accessible manner.
- Interpersonal skills to create a positive learning environment and establish strong relationships with students, colleagues, and the academic community.
- Organizational skills to manage teaching schedules, administrative duties, and academic research simultaneously.
- A PhD degree in Classics or a related field, demonstrating a deep understanding and expertise in the subject.
Classics Professor Experience Requirements
Candidates aspiring to become a Classics Professor typically need to have a Doctorate degree in Classics, Ancient History, Classical Archaeology, or a related field.
This means they have spent several years studying and researching in this field.
Some universities or colleges may require candidates to have a minimum of 2-5 years of teaching experience at the postsecondary level.
This can include adjunct or associate professor roles, or even teaching assistant positions during their doctoral studies.
Candidates should have a record of scholarly research and publication in the field of classics.
This demonstrates their deep understanding of the subject matter, as well as their ability to contribute to the field’s body of knowledge.
Candidates with more than 5 years of teaching experience are often preferred as they have demonstrated their teaching ability and classroom management skills.
In addition, those with leadership experience, such as serving as a department head or leading a research team, may be considered for senior or tenured professor positions.
Classics Professor Education and Training Requirements
Classics Professors typically hold a doctoral degree in Classics, Ancient History, Archaeology or related fields.
They are expected to have a comprehensive knowledge of ancient Greek and Latin languages, as well as a deep understanding of ancient civilizations, literature, philosophy, and culture.
Before becoming a Classics Professor, they generally complete a bachelor’s and master’s degree in a related field, such as Classics, Ancient History or Latin.
During their graduate studies, they will likely conduct original research in a specific area of interest, culminating in a dissertation, which showcases their ability to contribute scholarly work to the field.
In addition to academic qualifications, experience in teaching at the college or university level is usually required.
This can be gained through graduate teaching assistant positions, adjunct teaching roles, or post-doctoral fellowships.
Continual professional development is also important for Classics Professors, who may participate in scholarly conferences, publish research in academic journals, and stay up-to-date with new theories and methodologies in the field.
While not typically required, some professors may choose to pursue additional certifications or trainings in related disciplines such as archaeology, philosophy, or art history to broaden their expertise and enhance their teaching abilities.
Classics Professor Salary Expectations
The average salary for a Classics Professor is approximately $73,600 (USD) per year.
However, the actual salary may vary based on factors such as academic qualifications, years of experience, the prestige of the institution, and geographical location.
Classics Professor Job Description FAQs
What skills does a Classics Professor need?
A Classics Professor should have a deep understanding of Ancient Greek and Roman civilizations, literature, philosophy, and history.
They should also have strong teaching skills, research abilities, and excellent communication skills to explain complex concepts in a straightforward manner.
Proficiency in Latin or Ancient Greek is often required.
The ability to inspire and engage students is also highly beneficial.
Do Classics Professors need a degree?
Yes, Classics Professors typically need a doctoral degree in Classics or a related field such as Ancient History or Classical Archaeology.
Prior to achieving this, they would have likely completed an undergraduate and master’s degree in a related field.
Some universities may also require postdoctoral experience or publications in reputable academic journals.
What should you look for in a Classics Professor’s resume?
An applicant for a Classics Professor position should have a doctoral degree in Classics or a related field, and a history of academic publishing would be advantageous.
Teaching experience is often preferred and sometimes required.
Proficiency in Ancient Greek or Latin should be demonstrated.
Look also for any specializations or research interests that align with your institution’s needs or focuses.
What qualities make a good Classics Professor?
A good Classics Professor is passionate about ancient civilizations and is able to convey this enthusiasm to students.
They should be knowledgeable, approachable, and able to stimulate thought-provoking class discussions.
Good organizational skills are important for planning lessons and grading papers.
Patience and understanding are key when dealing with students of varying abilities and backgrounds.
Is it difficult to hire Classics Professors?
Hiring Classics Professors can be challenging due to the specialized nature of the field and the requirement of advanced degrees.
However, there is a pool of dedicated scholars who have devoted their academic career to the study of classics.
It’s essential to offer attractive conditions such as research funding, opportunities for collaboration, and a supportive academic environment.
Conclusion
So there you have it.
Today, we unveiled the intricacies of being a classics professor.
And guess what?
It’s not just about teaching ancient languages.
It’s about bringing the past to life, one lecture at a time.
With our detailed classics professor job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to embark on this noble profession.
But why stop there?
Delve further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating detailed listings or refining your CV to perfection.
Remember:
Every lecture is a part of the bigger narrative.
Let’s illuminate history. Together.
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