Area, Ethnic, and Cultural Studies Teachers, Postsecondary
Area, Ethnic, and Cultural Studies Teachers instruct college and university students in courses focused on specific cultures, regions, or social groups—such as Latin American studies, women's studies, or urban affairs. These educators work in postsecondary institutions, balancing classroom instruction with research and course development.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against area, ethnic, and cultural studies teachers, postsecondary and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week includes preparing and teaching multiple course sections, holding office hours to advise students, and grading papers and exams. Instructors develop syllabi and lesson materials, often drawing on current research. Many spend time conducting their own scholarship or fieldwork to stay current in their subject area and inform their teaching.
Who this work suits
Holland code SIA. Social work is helping, teaching and working closely with people. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to thrive in this work if you're drawn to exploring social systems and understanding how cultures and communities develop. You enjoy investigating complex topics deeply and sharing knowledge with others through teaching, and you're comfortable pursuing advanced education to develop genuine expertise.
What it takes
Preparation: Extensive preparation (graduate degree and/or many years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold doct.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Hampshire | $95,450 | $125,450 | $147,220 | 80 |
| Kansas | $61,530 | $107,120 | $136,480 | 90 |
| California | $88,110 | $105,220 | $148,610 | 770 |
| Rhode Island | $79,800 | $104,460 | $131,310 | — |
| Maine | $65,220 | $103,060 | $129,880 | 50 |
| New York | $80,060 | $101,800 | $124,830 | 1,520 |
| District of Columbia | $82,750 | $101,700 | $129,000 | 230 |
| Massachusetts | $81,450 | $100,470 | $131,680 | 610 |
| Connecticut | $79,250 | $99,900 | $126,160 | 310 |
| New Jersey | $64,270 | $97,500 | $126,070 | 480 |
| Pennsylvania | $79,770 | $96,010 | $122,380 | 260 |
| Maryland | $68,100 | $91,330 | $115,530 | 520 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Family Life Educator (NCFR) — National Council on Family Relations
- LIUNA Instructor Certification — LIUNA Training & Education
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against area, ethnic, and cultural studies teachers, postsecondary and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 25-1062.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.