Anthropology/Archaeology Professor

Your Fit

Income

$96K

Preparation

Extensive

Growth

4.0%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is an Anthropology/Archeology Professor?

An Anthropology/Archaeology Professor is an academic professional specializing in the study of human societies, cultures, and their development. They focus on teaching and researching the physical, social, and cultural aspects of humans, both past and present.

Sample job titles:

Anthropology Professor, Assistant Professor, Associate Professor, Professor

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The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Anthropology/Archaeology Professor.

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Test scores

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How much does an Anthropology/Archeology Professor earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) in 2024 was...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$51K per year	$67K per year	$96K per year	$123K per year	$169K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $46K above the national average.

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What does an Anthropology/Archeology Professor do?

Work environment

These professors typically work in colleges and universities, where they teach in classrooms, conduct research in laboratories, and may participate in fieldwork. Their work environment also includes academic conferences, seminars, and sometimes archaeological sites for research purposes.

Quick task list

Teaches undergraduate and graduate courses in anthropology and archaeology.
Conducts fieldwork and research to gather data and artifacts.
Publishes research findings in academic journals.
Supervises student research and field projects.
Participates in academic committees and contributes to curriculum development.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Cultural Anthropology: Studying contemporary cultures and societies.
Physical/Biological Anthropology: Focusing on the biological and evolutionary aspects of humans.
Archaeology: Examining past human societies through material remains.
Linguistic Anthropology: Exploring the relationship between language and culture.
Forensic Anthropology: Applying anthropological methods to legal cases.

Description

Anthropology and Archaeology Professors are integral to the understanding of human history and culture. They combine teaching with research, often incorporating fieldwork as a crucial part of their scholarly activity. This role requires not only a deep understanding of human history and cultural practices but also the ability to convey this knowledge to students in an engaging and informative manner.

Their research can vary widely, from excavating ancient sites to studying modern cultures and languages. This research is vital for adding to our understanding of human history, cultural diversity, and social structures. Professors in this field often publish their findings in academic journals, contributing to the broader field of anthropology and archaeology.

In addition to their roles as educators and researchers, these professors engage in various academic service activities, such as advising students, developing curricula, and serving on university committees. They may also participate in public outreach, helping to increase public awareness and understanding of anthropological and archaeological findings.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Uncovering and sharing new insights about human history and culture.
Mentoring and inspiring the next generation of anthropologists and archaeologists.
Engaging in diverse and often interdisciplinary research activities.

You might make a good Anthropology/Archeology Professor if you are...

Fascinated by human cultures, languages, and histories.
A strong communicator, able to present complex information in an accessible way.
Detail-oriented, with a keen interest in research and fieldwork.
Patient and dedicated, as fieldwork and research can be time-consuming.
Eager to contribute to the academic community through teaching and scholarly work.

Pros:

Intellectual fulfillment from studying diverse aspects of human life.
Opportunities for fieldwork and travel to various archaeological sites.
Engaging in interdisciplinary work that combines history, sociology, linguistics, and more.

Cons:

The academic job market can be competitive.
Balancing teaching, research, and fieldwork can be challenging.
Fieldwork can sometimes be physically demanding and require extended periods away from home.

How to become an Anthropology/Archeology Professor

Typical education

To become an Anthropology/Archaeology Professor, a Ph.D. in Anthropology or Archaeology is generally required, involving around 8-10 years of post-secondary education, including undergraduate and graduate studies.

High school preparation

Courses:

History and Social Studies to build a foundation in understanding human societies.
Sciences like Biology and Geography for a well-rounded understanding of human evolution and environments.
Language Arts to develop skills in communication and analysis.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Participating in history or anthropology clubs.
Volunteering at museums or historical sites.
Engaging in travel or cultural exchange programs to gain exposure to different cultures.

Preparation after high school

Pursue a bachelor's degree in anthropology, archaeology, or a related field.
Participate in fieldwork opportunities and internships.
Pursue a master's degree and Ph.D. in Anthropology or Archaeology, focusing on a specific area of interest.
Gain experience in research methods and academic writing.

More resources

American Anthropological Association (AAA) - Offers resources and networking opportunities for anthropology professionals.
Archaeological Institute of America (AIA) - Provides resources and support for archaeologists.
Society for American Archaeology - Offers publications and resources for professionals in American archaeology.
National Association for the Practice of Anthropology - Focuses on the practice and application of anthropology outside academia.

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