Anthropology and Archeology Teachers, Postsecondary Salary Guide 2025: Median $99,650
The median salary for postsecondary anthropology and archaeology teachers is $99,650, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' most recent data (May 2023 OEWS). That breaks down to roughly $48 per hour. The average (mean) salary is $106,880.
Salaries span a wide range: The bottom 10% earn about $57,840, while the top 10% earn $171,310. Most full-time professors work on a nine-month academic year, though some teach summer courses for extra pay.
How much Anthropology and Archeology Teachers, Postsecondary earn
The national median for anthropology and archaeology professors is $99,650, meaning half earn more and half less. The mean wage is $106,880, pulled up by higher-paid senior faculty at research universities.
Pay depends heavily on institution type and rank. Junior faculty at community colleges or smaller schools often start nearer the 10th percentile ($57,840). Full professors at large universities can exceed the 90th percentile ($171,310). Adjuncts typically earn per-course fees and are not included in these full-time BLS figures.
Anthropology and archaeology professors earn less than the average for all postsecondary social sciences teachers ($105,520) but more than history teachers ($91,110).
Pay by state
Missouri is the highest-paying state, with an average annual wage of $130,500. California follows at $128,370, then Connecticut at $112,860, Massachusetts at $107,390, and the District of Columbia at $106,470.
Lower-paying states include Florida ($76,460), Ohio ($76,440), and North Carolina ($64,380). Keep in mind that cost of living varies — a $99,650 salary in Ohio goes further than $128,370 in coastal California.
How to become Anthropology and Archeology Teachers, Postsecondary
A doctorate (Ph.D.) in anthropology or archaeology is the standard credential for a tenure-track position at four-year colleges and universities. Many faculty spend five to eight years earning their Ph.D., including dissertation fieldwork.
For community colleges, a master's degree — sometimes a terminal master's in the field — may suffice. Adjunct or part-time teaching is a common entry point while completing the doctorate.
Postdoctoral research fellowships (one to three years) are typical before landing a tenure-track job. Published research, conference presentations, and teaching experience are critical.
- Earn a bachelor's in anthropology, archaeology, or a related field.
- Complete a master's degree in anthropology/archaeology (often a step toward the Ph.D.).
- Earn a Ph.D. in anthropology or archaeology with a focus area (e.g., cultural, biological, archaeology).
- Gain teaching experience as a graduate teaching assistant or instructor.
- Apply for tenure-track assistant professor positions; start as an adjunct or visiting professor if needed.
Job outlook
BLS projects 2.7% employment growth from 2024 to 2034 for anthropology and archaeology postsecondary teachers — about as fast as the average for all occupations. That translates to roughly 500 new openings each year over the decade.
Most openings will result from retirements of current faculty or movement to other occupations. Competition for tenure-track jobs remains high, especially at research universities. Community colleges and adjunct roles offer more openings but lower pay and less stability.
The total number of these teachers is currently 5,240, a small occupation, so even modest growth yields few absolute positions. Specializing in high-demand subfields (e.g., applied anthropology, digital archaeology) may improve prospects.
Frequently asked questions
What is the job growth for Anthropology and Archeology Teachers, Postsecondary?
Employment is projected to grow 2.7% from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as the average for all occupations. About 500 openings per year are expected due to growth and replacement.
How much do Anthropology and Archeology Teachers, Postsecondary make per hour?
The mean hourly wage is roughly $48, based on the mean annual salary of $106,880. Median hourly is about $47.90.
What degree do you need to become a college anthropology or archaeology professor?
A Ph.D. is required for most tenure-track positions at four-year colleges. A master's may be enough for community college or adjunct roles.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Anthropology and Archeology Teachers, Postsecondary data.