How to Become a College History Professor (Revealing the Past’s Riches!)

If you’ve ever been enthralled by the chronicles of the past and wondered what it takes to become a college history professor, you’re in the right place.

In this guide, we’ll unfold the EXACT steps you need to take to embark on your journey as a college history professor. We’ll discuss:

• The skills you require.
• The academic qualifications that can assist your journey.
• How to secure a position as a college history professor.

So, whether you’re a history enthusiast or a seasoned scholar aiming to enhance your credentials, stay tuned.

We’re about to unravel the roadmap to becoming a college history professor.

Let’s delve into the annals of this exciting career path!

Steps to Become a College History Professor

 

Step 1: Pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in History

To become a college history professor, the first step is to acquire a Bachelor’s Degree in History.

This is a critical foundational step, as it introduces you to the discipline of history and its various dimensions.

You’ll learn about different historical periods, regions, and themes, and you’ll develop the ability to analyze historical events critically.

During your bachelor’s program, you should focus on honing your research and writing skills, as these are integral to the profession.

You should also take advantage of opportunities to study abroad or to gain experience as a research assistant to further deepen your understanding of history.

The bachelor’s degree typically takes about four years to complete and provides the necessary groundwork to pursue further studies in history.

It’s also essential to maintain a good GPA, as this could be a determining factor when applying for graduate school.

Remember, while pursuing your bachelor’s degree, it’s important to engage with professors and other scholars in the field, as these connections can be beneficial in the future, especially when pursuing a PhD.

 

Step 2: Engage in Historical Research and Writing

In order to truly excel as a College History Professor, it’s important to engage in historical research and writing throughout your academic journey.

This could involve selecting a specific period, region, or theme in history that interests you and conducting detailed research on it.

This research will form the basis of your thesis if you’re pursuing a doctoral degree.

Writing research papers, articles, and books on your chosen area of interest not only helps you deepen your understanding of the subject but also establishes your credibility in the academic community.

It shows your dedication and commitment to your field of study, which is valued by universities and colleges.

Engaging in historical research also gives you the opportunity to present your findings at academic conferences.

This allows you to network with other scholars, stay updated on recent developments in your field, and receive feedback on your work.

During the early stages of your career, you may be required to publish your research in peer-reviewed academic journals.

As you progress, you can consider writing a book.

Remember, your published works will play a crucial role in securing a tenure-track position in a college or university.

Consistently engaging in historical research and writing helps you remain active and relevant in your field, which is essential for a career as a College History Professor.

 

Step 3: Gain Teaching Experience

Before you can become a college history professor, it’s critical to gain teaching experience.

This can be achieved in several ways.

Some individuals choose to start their teaching careers at the high school level, while others may gain experience by becoming teaching assistants while in graduate school.

As a teaching assistant, you would be responsible for leading discussion sections, grading assignments, and may even have the opportunity to teach a class.

This experience not only provides you with a firsthand glimpse of what it’s like to teach but also helps you to develop your teaching style and improve your ability to communicate complex historical concepts clearly.

In addition, it’s beneficial to seek opportunities to guest lecture in history courses or present your research at conferences.

This will not only enhance your teaching skills but will also demonstrate your expertise in your field.

Moreover, having teaching experience will likely be a requirement for most college history professor positions.

Search committees will be looking for candidates who have proven their ability to engage with students and stimulate intellectual curiosity.

So, start early and seek out as many teaching opportunities as possible.

This will not only help you hone your skills but will also greatly enhance your chances of landing a position as a college history professor.

 

Step 4: Obtain a Graduate Degree in History

To become a College History Professor, you need to pursue a graduate degree in History.

This usually involves completing a Master’s degree and then proceeding to earn a Doctorate (Ph.D.) in History.

These advanced studies will provide you with a deeper understanding of historical events, research methods, historiographical debates, and teaching practices.

In your Master’s program, you will get the opportunity to specialize in an area of History that interests you such as European History, American History, African History, or Ancient History.

During this time, you will also be required to write a thesis based on your own research.

After completing your Master’s, you need to apply for a Ph.D. program.

Here, you will be expected to write a dissertation on an original historical topic.

This research work will contribute to the field of History and will require a lot of independent research and academic writing.

Keep in mind that being a professor is not just about having knowledge of the subject, but also about effectively imparting that knowledge.

Therefore, throughout your graduate studies, look for opportunities to teach or assist in teaching undergraduate classes to gain necessary teaching experience.

Earning a Ph.D. in History can be a long and rigorous process, often taking between five to seven years to complete.

However, this advanced degree is a necessary requirement for most college and university level teaching positions in History.

Finally, even after earning your doctorate, strive to keep learning and updating your knowledge as the field of History is constantly evolving with new research and interpretations.

 

Step 5: Foster a Specialization

In the pursuit of becoming a College History Professor, it is essential to develop a specialized area of interest within the broad field of history.

Your specialization can be based on a particular period, region, or thematic study such as the history of women, military history, or the history of economics.

You can begin shaping your specialization during your bachelor’s degree, but it often becomes more defined during your graduate studies.

Through your Master’s and Ph.D., you will be required to dive deep into your chosen area, conducting extensive research and producing scholarly articles and a dissertation.

Having a specialized focus will not only increase your expertise but will also make you more attractive to potential employers.

Universities often look to hire professors who can fill specific niches in their history programs.

By becoming an expert in a specialized area, you can set yourself apart in the competitive academic job market.

Remember, your specialization can change and evolve over time.

Many professors shift their focus as they discover new interests and as new research opportunities present themselves.

You should therefore maintain a level of flexibility and openness to new ideas within your chosen field.

 

Step 6: Publish Original Research

As a college history professor, it is essential to conduct and publish original research in your area of expertise.

This contributes to the academic field of history, enhances your resume, and establishes your reputation within the academic community.

Start by identifying a unique historical topic, period, or event you are passionate about.

Then, conduct a thorough literature review to understand the existing research on the topic and identify gaps that your research can fill.

Once you have collected and analyzed your data, write a research paper detailing your findings and interpretations.

Ensure your paper follows the appropriate academic writing style and citation format.

Submit your paper to academic journals specializing in your area of study for publication.

Publishing original research not only proves your competence and depth of knowledge in your field but can also lead to invitations to present at academic conferences or guest lecture at other institutions.

The published research may also be used as teaching material in your own classes.

Remember that the process of researching and publishing takes time and requires patience and perseverance.

Rejections and requests for revisions are common in the academic publication process, so stay dedicated and persistent.

Your research endeavors will eventually pay off in your career as a college history professor.

 

Step 7: Attend Academic Conferences

Attending academic conferences is a crucial step in your journey to becoming a College History Professor.

These conferences are platforms where scholarly research findings are presented and discussed.

As a potential professor, they offer an opportunity to learn about the latest research in your field, gain insights from experienced colleagues, and present your own work for peer review.

These conferences also provide a platform for networking.

You can connect with other professionals, scholars, and educators from around the world who share your interests.

These interactions can lead to collaborations, job opportunities, and even mentorship.

Typically, you will be expected to submit papers or presentations in advance for consideration.

If accepted, this gives you a chance to showcase your research and analytical skills to a wider audience, which can be beneficial for your academic reputation.

Finally, attending these conferences can help you to stay updated with trends and shifts in the field of history, keep your knowledge current, and provide inspiration for new areas of research or teaching methods.

It’s also a great way to demonstrate your commitment to continual learning and growth in your field, something that can be highly beneficial when applying for professorship roles.

 

Step 8: Network with Academic Professionals

Networking is a crucial step in becoming a successful College History Professor.

Through networking, you can meet people who may have opportunities or connections that can benefit your career progression.

Start by attending academic conferences related to history.

These events often attract top scholars in the field, and it’s an opportunity to learn, present your research, and engage in meaningful discussions.

Make sure to introduce yourself and show genuine interest in their work.

You can also join professional organizations related to history education.

These organizations often hold regular meetings, workshops, and seminars that provide a chance to connect with other history professionals.

They can also provide resources and tools to help you grow in your career.

Building relationships with your peers and mentors in your graduate program or within your university can be invaluable as well.

They can offer advice, provide references, or even collaborate on research projects.

Remember, networking isn’t just about what you can get from others.

It’s also about what you can offer.

Be willing to share your expertise and offer your support to others as well.

Lastly, leverage social media platforms like LinkedIn to connect with scholars, professors, and other professionals in the history field.

Sharing articles, engaging in discussions, and demonstrating your expertise can help to establish your professional online presence.

 

Step 9: Get Involved in Departmental Service

As you establish your career as a college history professor, it is important to get involved in departmental service.

This means participating in committees and projects that are relevant to the academic department you are a part of.

This could be curriculum planning, student affairs, faculty hiring, research committees, or other administrative tasks.

Getting involved allows you to have a direct impact on the policies and direction of the department.

This is also an opportunity to collaborate with other faculty members and build professional relationships.

Your involvement in the departmental service is a way to demonstrate your commitment to your profession, to the institution, and to the academic community.

In addition to being part of faculty meetings and committees, you may also have the opportunity to take on leadership roles within the department.

This not only enhances your professional development but also makes you more visible in the academic community, which can lead to networking opportunities and potential career advancement.

Remember, active involvement in your department’s service demonstrates your commitment to the university, your students, and your colleagues.

This involvement can also be beneficial when it comes to tenure evaluations.

 

Step 10: Apply for Doctoral Programs (Ph.D.)

If you aspire to become a College History Professor, earning a doctorate degree is almost always a requirement.

To do so, you must apply for Doctoral Programs, particularly Ph.D. in History.

This course provides an in-depth study into specific areas of history, depending on your area of interest.

Before applying, conduct thorough research on the available programs.

Check the university’s faculty, their areas of expertise, and if it aligns with your research interests.

Look into the program’s curriculum, the kind of resources they provide, the completion rate, and the career paths of their alumni.

When you apply, you will likely need to submit a detailed proposal outlining your intended research.

This should clearly articulate your research question, the scope of your investigation, the methods you plan to use, and the significance of your research in the wider academic community.

Letters of recommendation from professors or professionals in the field who know you well are also usually required.

Submit your academic transcripts, GRE scores, and a statement of purpose detailing your interest in the program, your career goals, and why you believe the program is a good fit for you.

Once admitted to a doctoral program, be prepared to invest significant time and effort into your research and studies.

You will likely spend several years studying, conducting original research, and writing a dissertation.

After successful defense of your dissertation, you will be awarded a Ph.D. and can then pursue roles as a College History Professor.

 

Step 11: Complete a Doctoral Dissertation

Completing a doctoral dissertation is a crucial step in your journey to becoming a college history professor.

This is an extensive piece of research and writing that showcases your knowledge and understanding of a specific topic in the field of history.

It is usually the final requirement of a Ph.D. program and is undertaken under the guidance of a faculty adviser.

You begin the process by choosing a topic for your dissertation that is unique and contributes new insights to your field of study.

This should be a topic you are passionate about and willing to devote several years to.

Extensive research, analysis, and critical thinking are involved in this stage.

After selecting the topic, you need to present a proposal to a committee outlining your research question, methodology, and a literature review.

Once your proposal is accepted, you then proceed to conduct your research and write your dissertation.

Upon completion, you will defend your work in front of a committee.

This is an opportunity to discuss and justify the validity of your research findings and arguments.

Successful defense of your dissertation signifies mastery of your subject matter and is often a pre-requisite to securing a faculty position.

Remember, your doctoral dissertation not only proves your ability to conduct rigorous research but also contributes to the body of knowledge in your field, setting the foundation for your professional academic career.

 

Step 12: Secure Postdoctoral Fellowships or Adjunct Positions

After completing your doctorate, you may want to consider securing a postdoctoral fellowship or adjunct position in a respected university.

This is not an obligatory step, but it can significantly boost your academic career.

A postdoctoral fellowship will allow you to continue your research under the guidance of a senior academic, often within a different university to the one you completed your doctorate at.

This will not only strengthen your academic profile but also enable you to diversify your knowledge and research skills in your field.

On the other hand, adjunct positions are part-time teaching roles that offer a foot in the door and some valuable experience in the academic environment.

As an adjunct professor, you’ll have the opportunity to hone your teaching skills and prepare for a full-time teaching career.

Both of these roles offer the chance to network with other academics, gain experience, and potentially publish more papers, which will be beneficial when applying for full-time positions as a history professor.

Remember to continue your research and writing during this time, as publications in academic journals will be crucial in securing a tenure-track position later.

 

Step 13: Apply for Tenure-Track Professor Positions

After you’ve gained a few years of experience as an adjunct faculty member or lecturer, it’s time to apply for tenure-track positions at colleges and universities.

These positions typically require a PhD in history and may also require a significant amount of teaching experience, which you would have accumulated during your time as an adjunct or lecturer.

When applying for these roles, focus on both your research and teaching experience.

Highlight the papers you’ve published, the research you’ve conducted, the conferences you’ve spoken at, and any grants or scholarships you’ve received.

Similarly, discuss the courses you’ve taught, the student evaluations you’ve received, and any teaching awards or recognitions you’ve been given.

Keep in mind that the tenure-track process can be highly competitive and may take several years.

To prepare for this, continually improve your teaching skills, stay active in your research, and maintain a strong professional network.

Don’t be discouraged if you don’t get a tenure-track position right away.

Many professors spend several years in visiting or fixed-term positions before landing a tenure-track job.

Consider each position a step towards your goal of becoming a tenured college history professor.

Finally, once you land a tenure-track position, you will need to work towards tenure.

This usually involves a combination of teaching, research, and service to the university.

It’s a rigorous process, but the job security and academic freedom that come with tenure are often worth the effort.

 

Step 14: Continue Scholarly Research and Publication

As a College History Professor, keeping up with your own scholarly research and publications is crucial.

This step is about maintaining an active role in the academic community, contributing to the body of knowledge in your field, and staying updated with the latest findings and trends.

You may choose to focus your research on a specific period, area, or theme in history.

This might involve conducting detailed archival research, interpreting historical documents, or exploring new theoretical perspectives.

Try to aim for regular publication of your research in academic journals or books.

This not only enriches your CV, but also establishes your authority in your field.

Remember, your research could also be the basis for the courses you teach, giving your students the most up-to-date and relevant information.

Consider also presenting your research at academic conferences.

This offers opportunities for networking, collaboration, and receiving feedback from peers.

It also helps in gaining visibility and establishing a reputation in your field.

Continuing scholarly research and publication is a long-term commitment that can be demanding but ultimately rewarding, contributing to your professional development and the advancement of historical scholarship.

 

Step 15: Participate in Professional Development

As a college history professor, it’s crucial to stay updated in your field and continue to develop your skills and knowledge.

This involves participating in professional development activities, which can include attending academic conferences, joining professional historical societies, and enrolling in workshops or courses related to your area of expertise.

Attending academic conferences allows you to network with other professionals in your field, learn about the latest research and developments, and present your own research findings.

Many conferences also offer workshops and sessions that can enhance your teaching or research skills.

Joining professional historical societies can provide you with resources such as research grants, publications, and a platform to connect with other historians.

Some renowned societies include the American Historical Association and the Organization of American Historians.

Enrolling in further education or training can also be beneficial.

This could involve taking a course on a new research methodology, learning a new language to broaden your research capabilities, or training in new teaching methods to enhance your effectiveness as a professor.

Additionally, you should consider publishing your research regularly in academic journals.

This not only contributes to your professional development but also enhances your reputation in the field.

Remember that professional development is a continuous process and it’s important to stay engaged and updated in your field throughout your career as a history professor.

 

Step 16: Contribute to the Academic Community

As a college history professor, it is essential for you to contribute to the academic community.

This could be by publishing research papers, articles, or books related to your field of history.

This not only enhances your reputation as a scholar but also contributes to the existing body of knowledge in your field.

You can also participate in academic conferences, symposiums, or workshops where you can present your research, get feedback, and network with other academics in your field.

These activities also allow you to stay updated with the latest trends and research methodologies in your area of study.

Joining professional organizations and associations related to your field can also provide you with opportunities to collaborate with other scholars, serve on committees, and participate in professional development activities.

Some professors also take on editorial roles in academic journals or serve as peer reviewers, further contributing to the academic community.

Furthermore, mentoring undergraduate and graduate students in their research work not only helps them in their academic journey but also adds to your contributions in the field.

Remember, your role as a college history professor extends beyond teaching in the classroom; it involves an ongoing commitment to scholarship and service in the academic community.

 

Step 17: Pursue Tenure

Once you’ve secured a position as a college history professor, your next goal should be to pursue tenure.

Gaining tenure provides job security and is often considered a significant milestone in an academic career.

It typically requires several years of service, exceptional teaching, and substantial contributions to your field of study through published research.

During this period, you must strive to demonstrate your value to the institution.

Regularly teach your classes with passion and dedication, showing your ability to engage students and facilitate their learning.

Meanwhile, continue your historical research.

Publishing new scholarly works, presenting at conferences, and actively participating in academic discussions are all crucial aspects of demonstrating your expertise and commitment to your field.

Finally, make sure to contribute to the university community beyond your teaching and research.

This could involve serving on committees, participating in faculty governance, or contributing to campus events and initiatives.

Keep in mind that the tenure process varies by institution, so it’s important to understand the specific expectations and requirements at your university.

Also, while pursuing tenure can be challenging, it’s a rewarding step that offers long-term stability and respect in your academic career.

 

College History Professor Roles and Responsibilities

College History Professors play a critical role in the academic development of students, using their extensive knowledge of history to provide an enriched learning experience.

They have the following roles and responsibilities:

 

Teaching

• Plan, prepare and deliver instructional activities that facilitate active learning experiences.
• Develop and deliver lectures to students on historical events, periods, and figures.
• Facilitate classroom discussions and debates, encouraging critical thinking and analytical skills.

 

Course Preparation

• Prepare course materials such as syllabi, homework assignments, and handouts.
• Develop course curriculums and revise as necessary.
• Select and use appropriate learning materials and equipment.

 

Student Evaluation

• Evaluate students’ progress and provide feedback.
• Develop and implement student assessment activities.
• Grade assignments, quizzes, and exams in a timely manner.

 

Research

• Conduct research in a particular field of knowledge and publish findings in professional journals, books, or electronic media.
• Stay updated with latest research and developments in the field of history.

 

Academic Advising

• Provide academic advising to students.
• Guide students on course selection, career decisions and other academic concerns.

 

Departmental Contributions

• Participate in departmental meetings and serve on committees.
• Contribute to the development, planning and implementation of a high-quality curriculum.

 

Professional Development

• Participate in conferences, workshops, and seminars to stay informed about new developments in the field.
• Undertake personal professional development and participate in staff development programs.

 

Community Engagement

• Engage in outreach activities with the local community to promote understanding and appreciation of history.
• Represent the institution at academic conferences and professional meetings.

 

What Does a College History Professor Do?

A College History Professor typically works in universities or colleges, teaching students about various periods and aspects of history.

They prepare and deliver lectures on specific topics such as ancient civilizations, world history, historical methodology, or specific eras and regions.

They also lead seminar discussions, guide research activities, and supervise students’ independent or group projects.

History Professors also work outside the classroom, researching and publishing their findings in academic journals or books.

They attend academic conferences to present their work, engage in discussions, and stay updated on developments in their field.

They may also take part in curriculum design, course planning, and the development of educational resources.

Additionally, History Professors provide academic advice to students, assess their performance through assignments and exams, and offer constructive feedback.

They also often serve on academic and administrative committees within their institutions, contributing to policy-making, faculty recruitment, and other internal affairs.

Their role is not just to educate students about the past but to help them draw connections between historical events and contemporary issues.

They aim to cultivate critical thinking, research skills, and an appreciation for the complexity and diversity of human experience in their students.

 

Essential College History Professor Skills

• Subject Matter Expertise: A deep understanding of historical events, cultures, and theories is essential. Professors need to be well-versed in various periods and regions of history and be able to teach them effectively.
• Research Skills: Professors often engage in research to contribute to the field of history. This requires skills in archival research, fact-checking, and the ability to synthesize complex information.
• Teaching Skills: The ability to convey complex historical concepts and facts in an engaging and understandable way is crucial. This includes the ability to create lesson plans, conduct lectures, and facilitate discussions.
• Communication: Professors must be able to communicate clearly and effectively, both in writing and verbally. They need to be able to present lectures, write research papers, and interact with students and colleagues.
• Critical Thinking: Understanding the broader context and significance of historical events requires sharp critical thinking skills. This includes the ability to analyze sources, draw conclusions, and challenge existing interpretations.
• Passion for History: A genuine passion for history is crucial to keep up with the latest research, inspire students, and contribute meaningful work to the field.
• Adaptability: Professors need to be flexible and adapt their teaching methods to suit different learning styles and changing curriculum requirements.
• Mentoring: Professors often guide students in their academic journeys. The ability to provide constructive feedback, motivate students, and help them achieve their goals is important.
• Technology Proficiency: Familiarity with learning management systems, presentation software, and digital research tools is necessary in the modern educational environment.
• Organization: Professors juggle teaching, grading, research, and administrative duties. Excellent organizational skills, including time management and prioritization, are necessary to manage these responsibilities effectively.
• Continuous Learning: The field of history is constantly evolving with new research and interpretations. Professors need to have a commitment to continuous learning to stay up-to-date in their field.
• Collaboration: Professors often work with colleagues on research projects or curriculum development. The ability to work effectively within a team is important.
• Public Speaking: Delivering lectures, presenting research at conferences, and participating in academic debates requires strong public speaking skills.
• Writing: Professors often write research papers, articles, and books. Strong writing skills, including the ability to write clearly, persuasively, and in an organized way, are crucial.
• Leadership: In addition to leading classes, professors may lead departments, research teams, or academic committees. Leadership skills, such as decision-making and conflict resolution, are important.

 

College History Professor Career Path Progression

The Foundation: Graduate Teaching Assistant

Your journey in academia typically begins as a Graduate Teaching Assistant while pursuing your master’s or doctoral degree.

In this stage, you assist professors with their courses and conduct research in your chosen area of specialization.

Here are some tips for success in this role:

1. Research and Learn: Immerse yourself in your chosen field of history. Read widely, and pursue original research.
2. Develop Teaching Skills: Learn to communicate complex ideas clearly, and gain experience in lesson planning and grading.
3. Network: Establish relationships with professors and other graduate students. This network can be helpful for future opportunities and collaborations.

 

The Ascent: Adjunct Professor or Lecturer

After acquiring your Ph.D., you may start as an Adjunct Professor or Lecturer, teaching courses independently.

Your responsibilities will primarily include developing course content, teaching, and continuing your research.

Here’s how to thrive in this stage:

1. Teaching Excellence: Strive for clarity and engagement in your teaching. Seek feedback from students and peers to improve.
2. Publish Research: Continue your research and aim to publish in reputable academic journals.
3. Community Involvement: Participate in academic events, seminars, and contribute to your department’s growth.

 

Reaching New Heights: Assistant Professor

Upon receiving tenure, you transition into the role of an Assistant Professor.

You take on more courses, guide student research, and contribute to your department’s administration.

To excel as an Assistant Professor:

1. Mentorship: Provide guidance and support to your students in their research endeavors.
2. Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Collaborate with professionals from other disciplines to broaden your research perspectives.
3. Professional Development: Continue to develop your teaching methods and research skills. Seek opportunities for professional growth.

 

Beyond the Horizon: Associate and Full Professor

With further experience and contributions to your field, you may be promoted to an Associate or Full Professor.

In these roles, you’ll be recognized as a leading authority in your field, guiding strategic decisions in your department, and mentoring younger faculty members.

Here’s what to focus on:

1. Leadership: Take on leadership roles in your department or university. Lead initiatives to improve teaching or research practices.
2. Continued Research: Maintain a strong research profile. Pursue funding opportunities for your projects.
3. Contribution to the Field: Contribute to the broader academic community through activities like peer review, conference organization, and public speaking.

 

Pinnacle of Success: Department Chair or Dean

You may reach roles like Department Chair or Dean at the highest levels of academia.

In these positions, you will oversee the academic and administrative functions of your department or college, shape its strategic direction, and make critical decisions affecting faculty and students.

 

College History Professor Salary

Entry-Level College History Professor

• Median Salary: $50,000 – $60,000 per year
• Entry-level college history professors typically have a doctoral degree in history, with 0-2 years of experience teaching at the collegiate level. They are primarily responsible for delivering lectures, preparing course materials and assessing student performance.

 

Mid-Level College History Professor

• Median Salary: $60,000 – $75,000 per year
• Mid-level college history professors have 2-5 years of experience and often take on more responsibilities such as mentoring students, publishing research papers, participating in academic committees and developing new courses.

 

Senior College History Professor

• Median Salary: $75,000 – $90,000 per year
• Senior college history professors possess 5+ years of experience and are often trusted with leadership roles within their department. They play a significant role in shaping the curriculum, advising students, and conducting high-profile research.

 

Department Chair College History Professor

• Median Salary: $90,000 – $110,000+ per year
• This role requires significant experience and often involves administrative and managerial responsibilities, including making hiring decisions, overseeing department budgets, and setting academic goals. Department chairs also continue teaching and researching in their specialized area of history.

 

Dean of History Department

• Median Salary: $100,000 – $150,000+ per year
• This high-level position requires extensive experience, academic accomplishments, and leadership skills. The dean is responsible for setting the direction of the department, fundraising, interacting with university administration, and occasionally teaching.

 

College History Professor Work Environment

College History Professors are typically employed in postsecondary educational institutions such as community colleges, universities, and vocational schools.

They may have offices where they can prepare lectures, grade assignments, and conduct research, but they spend a significant portion of their time in classrooms, delivering lectures and leading discussions.

Depending on the size and structure of the institution, professors might also work in research labs, archive rooms or libraries.

College History Professors often have a flexible schedule, with the ability to set their own office hours and class schedules.

However, they may be required to teach evening or weekend classes and their research often demands a significant amount of their time.

These professors are often expected to participate in faculty meetings, serve on committees, and contribute to curriculum development.

Some may also take on administrative roles within their department or institution.

In addition to their on-campus responsibilities, College History Professors may also attend and present at academic conferences, publish research papers, and contribute to the broader academic community in their field.

This can involve travelling, both domestically and internationally.

Despite the challenges, the opportunity to contribute to the academic growth of their students, the intellectual stimulation of research, and the freedom to explore historical events in depth can be highly rewarding aspects of a College History Professor’s work environment.

 

FAQs About Becoming a College History Professor

What is needed to become a college history professor?

To become a college history professor, you need to have a strong foundation in history and academia.

This usually involves obtaining a bachelor’s degree in history or a related field, followed by a master’s degree, and then a PhD in history.

The process also involves conducting original research and publishing papers in academic journals.

Additionally, teaching experience is often required, which can be gained as a teaching assistant during postgraduate studies.

Key skills include critical thinking, research, writing, and public speaking.

 

How long does it take to become a college history professor?

The time it takes to become a college history professor can vary, but it generally takes around 10 to 12 years of higher education.

This includes four years for a bachelor’s degree, two years for a master’s degree, and four to six years for a PhD.

During the PhD program, students typically gain teaching experience and conduct original research, which contributes to their qualifications as a professor.

 

Can I become a college history professor without a PhD?

While it’s technically possible to become a college history professor without a PhD, it is quite rare and the job market is highly competitive.

Most institutions require history professors to have a PhD because it demonstrates a high level of expertise in the field and the ability to conduct and publish original research.

A master’s degree may be sufficient for teaching at some community colleges or adjunct positions, but a PhD is generally required for tenure-track positions at four-year colleges and universities.

 

Is being a college history professor a stressful job?

Being a college history professor can be stressful at times, as it involves a combination of teaching, research, publishing, and administrative duties.

It also often requires maintaining a balance between teaching responsibilities and publishing expectations, especially in the quest for tenure.

However, many professors find the job rewarding due to their passion for the subject matter, the intellectual challenge, and the opportunity to shape the minds of students.

 

What are the job prospects for college history professors?

The job market for college history professors is quite competitive.

The number of history PhDs awarded each year is generally higher than the number of job openings, making it a challenging field to break into.

However, those with strong qualifications, teaching experience, and a proven track record of research and publication can increase their chances of securing a position.

Additionally, being open to a wide range of locations and types of institutions can improve job prospects.

 

Conclusion

There you have it.

Setting out on a journey to become a college history professor is no small feat, but it is unquestionably gratifying.

Equipped with the right knowledge, education, and tenacity, you’re well on your way to making a significant impact in the realm of academia.

Remember, the path may be daunting, but the opportunities are boundless. Your insights could lead to a new understanding of the past that changes the way we view the world.

So, take that initial stride. Immerse yourself in historical study. Connect with fellow academics. And most importantly, never cease learning.

Because the world is eager to hear your interpretation of our past.

And if you’re in search of personalized guidance on beginning or advancing your career as a college history professor, look into our AI Career Path Advisor.

This complimentary tool is designed to provide tailored advice and resources to assist you in effectively navigating your career path.

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