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History Professor Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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History Professor information

See Virginia salary details

$50.1K

$116.3K

$131.9K

How much do history professor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for history professor in Virginia is $116,277.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $130,900.00 and $130,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a history professor do?

A History Professor teaches courses in history at colleges or universities, conducts research in their area of expertise, and publishes scholarly articles or books. They also advise students, develop curriculum, and may participate in academic conferences. In addition, History Professors often mentor students, supervise research projects, and serve on departmental or university committees. Their work helps students gain a deeper understanding of historical events, cultures, and trends, fostering critical thinking and analytical skills.

What do I need to be a history professor?

To become a history professor, you typically need a doctoral degree in history or a related field, such as a Ph.D. or equivalent. Academic positions also require strong research, teaching experience, and publication record, often supported by relevant skills in historiography and research tools like archives and databases.

How much does a history professor get paid?

The average salary for a history professor varies by institution and experience but typically ranges from $60,000 to $120,000 annually. Factors such as academic rank, location, and whether the position is at a community college, college, or university influence compensation. Many professors also engage in research, publishing, and advising as part of their roles.

How hard is it to get a job as a history professor?

Securing a position as a history professor typically requires a doctoral degree in history or a related field, along with teaching experience and a strong research record. Competition can be high, especially for tenure-track roles at research universities, and candidates often need to publish scholarly work and demonstrate expertise in their specialization.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a history professor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a History Professor, you need an advanced degree in history or a related field, deep subject matter expertise, and experience in academic research and teaching. Familiarity with learning management systems (LMS) like Canvas or Blackboard and proficiency in research databases such as JSTOR are typically required. Strong communication, critical thinking, and mentorship abilities help foster student engagement and support scholarly collaboration. These skills ensure effective knowledge transfer, robust academic research, and a positive learning environment for students.

What does a history professor do?

A history professor teaches history to students at a college or university and conducts research on the subject. As a history professor, you prepare lessons for each class you teach and provide engaging instruction on the subjects your students must learn. Grading student work and evaluating their progress is an essential aspect of your job as a history professor. Depending on your level of experience, you may teach undergraduate or graduate courses.

Is there a demand for history professors?

The demand for history professors varies by region and institution but generally remains steady in higher education, with employment opportunities available at colleges and universities that value research, teaching, and curriculum development. Competition can be high, and candidates with advanced degrees, research experience, and publication records tend to have better prospects. Job growth is expected to be slow but consistent, reflecting broader trends in higher education employment.

What is the difference between History Professor vs History Teacher?

AspectHistory ProfessorHistory Teacher
Required CredentialsDoctorate (Ph.D.) or Master’s degree in HistoryBachelor’s degree in Education or History
Work EnvironmentColleges and universities, academic settingsHigh schools, secondary education institutions
Employer & Industry UsageHigher education institutions, academiaPublic and private high schools
Common Search & Comparison IntentAcademic career, research, university teachingSecondary education, classroom teaching

In summary, a History Professor typically works in higher education institutions, requiring advanced degrees like a Ph.D., and focuses on research and university-level teaching. Conversely, a History Teacher works in high schools, usually holding a bachelor’s degree, and primarily teaches students at the secondary level. Both roles involve teaching history but differ significantly in credentials, work environment, and career focus.

How do history professors typically balance teaching, research, and administrative duties?

History Professors often juggle multiple responsibilities, including developing and delivering lectures, conducting original research, publishing scholarly work, and participating in departmental meetings or committees. Achieving this balance requires strong time management and prioritization skills, as teaching loads and research expectations can vary by institution. Many professors set aside specific days or hours for research and writing, while using other times for student advising and administrative tasks. Collaboration with colleagues and mentorship of graduate students are also integral parts of the role.
What are the most commonly searched types of History Professor jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of History Professor jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to History Professor jobs in Virginia? For History Professor jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for History Professor jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most History Professor job openings:
Infographic showing various History Professor job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $116,277 per year, or $55.9 per hour.

Assistant Professor of Medieval European History

Washington and Lee University

Lexington, VA • On-site

$88K - $96K/yr

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago


Washington and Lee University rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 616 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Description
The History Department of Washington and Lee University (W&L) invites applications for an Assistant Professor of Medieval European History (ca. 500 to 1500), to begin in July 2027. Special consideration will be given to candidates whose scholarship and teaching engages with legal history, and who specialize in geographical areas other than Britain and France. Successful applicants will be expected to teach introductory surveys in medieval European history and the Renaissance as well as intermediate and advanced undergraduate courses related to their areas of specialization. Candidates will contribute to the university's interdisciplinary Medieval and Renaissance Studies program and the Law, Justice, and Society program.
To achieve our mission as a liberal arts college, we strive to foster a welcoming campus community, which recognizes the value of all persons. Our department is committed to preparing our students for engaged citizenship by creating a positive learning and working environment for all through open and substantive dialogue. We welcome applications from candidates that would contribute to the University's mission and strategic plan.
The expected salary for this position is between $88,000 - $96,000. Offers are based on factors such as relevant education, experience, tenure status, internal equity, and market and organizational considerations.
Washington and Lee University offers a generous and comprehensive benefits package designed to support the well-being of employees and their families, as well as substantial support for faculty development through research funding, a strong culture of mentorship, and a pre-tenure leave program. To learn more about working at W&L, employee benefits, and life in the Shenandoah Valley, visit jobs.wlu.edu.
Qualifications
A PhD at the time of appointment is required.
Application Instructions
Application review will begin on October 1, 2026. Candidates should submit a letter of application that describes their teaching interests, experience, and pedagogical philosophy; summarizes their current and future scholarship; and reflects on their approach to contributing to their academic communities. Applicants should also provide a CV and a list of three references. All materials should be uploaded through Interfolio at https://apply.interfolio.com/189197. For more information, please contact Prof. Michelle Brock (brockm@wlu.edu). Semi-finalists will be asked to supply three confidential letters of recommendation and a writing sample before their interview.

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