American History Lecturer in Idaho Career Overview

As an American History Lecturer, you play a significant role in the academic landscape. Your position involves educating students about the complexities of American history, exploring the events, figures, and movements that have shaped the nation.

Key aspects of your role include:

  • Curriculum Development: You design and implement courses that cover various periods and themes in American history, tailoring content to engage students and promote critical thinking.

  • Classroom Engagement: You facilitate discussions, encourage participation, and promote a deeper understanding of historical context, helping students connect past events to contemporary issues.

  • Research and Publication: Many lecturers also engage in research, contributing to the academic community through publications, presentations, and participation in conferences that advance historical scholarship.

  • Mentorship: Beyond teaching, you offer guidance to students pursuing academic or career paths related to history, providing insights and support for their professional development.

  • Community Involvement: Your role may extend beyond the classroom as you participate in public lectures, workshops, and events that promote historical awareness within the community.

By fostering a deeper understanding of American history, you help students appreciate the past and reflect on its implications for today and the future. Your work is vital in preserving historical narratives and encouraging informed citizenship among future generations.

American History Lecturer Salary in Idaho

Annual Median: $75,040
Hourly Median: N/A

Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.

Required Education To Become an American History Lecturer in Idaho

To become an American History Lecturer, you are required to pursue specific educational qualifications and training. The following programs are particularly relevant:

  • Bachelor’s Degree:

    • You should start with a bachelor’s degree in one of the following fields, as this foundational education is necessary for further academic pursuit:
      • American History (United States)
      • History
      • American Studies
  • Master’s Degree:

    • After obtaining your bachelor’s degree, a master's degree is typically required. You may choose to specialize further in one of the following:
      • American History (United States)
      • History
      • American Studies
    • This advanced degree will deepen your understanding of American history and prepare you for teaching at the college level.
  • Doctoral Degree (Ph.D.):

    • To secure a position as a lecturer, you will need to complete a doctoral degree in a relevant field. Consider focusing your dissertation on topics within:
      • American History (United States)
      • History
      • American Studies
    • A Ph.D. will not only qualify you for teaching at the university level but also enable you to engage in scholarly research.
  • Teaching Experience:

    • While pursuing your advanced degrees, seek opportunities to gain teaching experience. This can include:
      • Teaching assistantships while working on your master's or doctoral degrees.
      • Part-time teaching positions or internships at community colleges or universities.

    In summary, to become an American History Lecturer, you will need to earn at least a master’s degree in History, American Studies, or American History (United States) after completing a relevant bachelor’s degree, followed by a doctoral degree in a related field.

Best Schools to become a American History Lecturer in Idaho 2024

Southern New Hampshire University

Manchester, NH

In-State Tuition:$15,000
Out-of-State Tuition:$15,000
Admission Rate:96%
Graduation Rate:41%
Total Enrollment:164,091

Liberty University

Lynchburg, VA

In-State Tuition:$15,467
Out-of-State Tuition:$15,467
Admission Rate:99%
Graduation Rate:66%
Total Enrollment:96,709

University of California-Los Angeles

Los Angeles, CA

In-State Tuition:$11,564
Out-of-State Tuition:$41,636
Admission Rate:9%
Graduation Rate:92%
Total Enrollment:46,430

American Public University System

Charles Town, WV

In-State Tuition:$6,840
Out-of-State Tuition:$6,840
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:55%
Total Enrollment:48,668

Arizona State University Digital Immersion

Scottsdale, AZ

In-State Tuition:$10,978
Out-of-State Tuition:$13,248
Admission Rate:64%
Graduation Rate:52%
Total Enrollment:62,551

Pace University

New York, NY

In-State Tuition:$48,152
Out-of-State Tuition:$48,152
Admission Rate:83%
Graduation Rate:61%
Total Enrollment:13,609
American History Lecturer Job Description:
  • Teach courses in human history and historiography.
  • Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.

American History Lecturer Required Skills and Competencies in Idaho

  • Strong Communication Skills: You must articulate complex historical concepts clearly and effectively, both in writing and verbally. Engaging lectures and meaningful discussions are essential.

  • Analytical Thinking: You should be able to analyze historical events, evaluate varying perspectives, and make connections across different time periods and regions. This skill is critical for fostering critical thinking in your students.

  • Research Proficiency: You need to conduct thorough historical research and synthesize information from various sources, including primary documents, scholarly articles, and historical texts.

  • Organizational Ability: Organizing course materials, lectures, and assessments requires effective planning and time management. You should also be able to maintain a structured curriculum.

  • Adaptability: You must be flexible in your teaching methods to cater to different learning styles and to adapt to changing educational environments or technologies.

  • Cultural Literacy: Awareness and sensitivity toward diverse cultures and histories enhance your ability to teach American history within a broader global context, enriching student understanding.

  • Interpersonal Skills: Building strong relationships with students and colleagues is important. Being approachable and open can foster a positive learning atmosphere.

  • Instructional Design: You should possess the ability to create engaging and effective lesson plans and instructional materials that facilitate learning and encourage student participation.

  • Assessment and Feedback: Skills in creating, administering, and evaluating assessments will help you gauge student understanding and provide constructive feedback to enhance their learning.

  • Passion for History: A genuine enthusiasm for American history not only enriches your teaching but also inspires students to develop their interest in the subject.

Job Duties for American History Lecturers

  • Initiate, facilitate, and moderate classroom discussions.

  • Prepare and deliver lectures to undergraduate or graduate students on topics such as ancient history, postwar civilizations, and the history of third-world countries.

  • Prepare course materials, such as syllabi, homework assignments, and handouts.

Technologies and Skills Used by American History Lecturers

Computer based training software

  • Learning management system LMS
  • Moodle

Electronic mail software

  • Email software
  • Microsoft Outlook

Word processing software

  • Google Docs
  • Microsoft Word

Basic Skills

  • Reading work related information
  • Talking to others

Problem Solving

  • Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Social

  • Teaching people how to do something
  • Understanding people's reactions

Job Market and Opportunities for American History Lecturer in Idaho

The job market for American History Lecturers in Idaho demonstrates a blend of stability and emerging opportunities. As an educator in this field, you can expect to encounter various factors influencing demand and growth potential.

  • Demand for Educators: The need for American History Lecturers remains steady within community colleges, universities, and online educational platforms. With increasing interest in historical studies and interdisciplinary approaches, institutions are seeking qualified instructors who can engage students effectively.

  • Growth Potential: The growth potential for positions as a Lecturer varies across educational institutions. While the overall growth projection in higher education can fluctuate, the rise in online courses presents new opportunities. Many colleges are expanding their distance learning programs, increasing the need for proficient lecturers who can deliver content through virtual platforms.

  • Geographical Hotspots: Certain areas in Idaho show higher demand for American History Lecturers. Specifically, urban centers such as Boise, Idaho Falls, and Pocatello have educational institutions that frequently hire faculty in the humanities.

    • Boise: As the state capital and home to Boise State University, this city offers a promising environment for lecturers. The university's diverse programs often look for individuals specializing in American History.

    • Idaho Falls: Home to Eastern Idaho Technical College and others, this region provides opportunities for lecturers focusing on community education and continuing education programs.

    • Pocatello: With Idaho State University as a significant institution, Pocatello also presents opportunities for lecturers, particularly those who engage with students at various educational levels.

  • Community Colleges: Numerous community colleges across Idaho often seek American History Lecturers to enrich their liberal arts curriculum and provide essential courses that serve as foundations for degree programs.

  • Networking and Professional Associations: Engaging with local and national historical associations or educational networks can enhance job prospects. This can lead to opportunities in adjunct teaching roles or collaborative projects that can further your career.

In summary, while the market has its challenges, those passionate about American History can find viable opportunities in Idaho's educational landscape.

Additional Resources To Help You Become an American History Lecturer in Idaho

  • American Historical Association (AHA)

    • A premier organization supporting historians and promoting historical scholarship.
    • Website: www.historians.org
  • National Council for History Education (NCHE)

    • Offers resources for educators at all levels and focuses on improving history education.
    • Website: www.nche.net
  • OAH Magazine of History

    • A publication from the Organization of American Historians featuring articles on American history and pedagogy.
    • Website: www.oah.org
  • American Historical Association's Guide to Careers in History

  • National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH)

    • Provides funding opportunities and resources for history professionals and educators.
    • Website: www.neh.gov
  • Teaching American History (TAH)

  • The American Historical Review

  • The Society of American Archivists (SAA)

    • An organization that provides resources related to archival work, which can complement your teaching of history.
    • Website: www.archivists.org
  • Idaho State Historical Society

    • Offers resources and information relevant to Idaho’s history and historical research.
    • Website: history.idaho.gov
  • Library of Congress: American History Resources

  • Digital Public Library of America (DPLA)

    • A free online library that provides access to millions of photographs, manuscripts, books, and other educational materials suitable for American history lectures.
    • Website: dp.la

Utilizing these resources can help enhance your understanding of American history and support your development as an educator in the field.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About American History Lecturer in Idaho

  • What qualifications do I need to become an American History Lecturer in Idaho?
    To become an American History Lecturer, you typically need at least a Master’s degree in History or a related field. A doctorate (PhD) may be required for tenure-track positions at universities. Additionally, teaching experience and a strong understanding of American history are essential.

  • Is teaching experience necessary for this career?
    While formal teaching experience is beneficial, it is not always mandatory, especially for positions at community colleges. However, having experience as a teaching assistant, tutor, or lecturer can enhance your application and improve your teaching skills.

  • What subjects will I be expected to teach?
    As an American History Lecturer, you may teach a variety of subjects, including American political history, social movements, regional history, and themes like civil rights, economics, and foreign policy. You may also cover related courses, such as historiography or historical methods.

  • What skills are important for a successful lecturer?
    Key skills include strong communication abilities, critical thinking, and an aptitude for engaging students. Organizational skills, adaptability, and proficiency in technology for online or hybrid instruction are increasingly valuable.

  • What is the typical salary range for American History Lecturers in Idaho?
    Salaries for American History Lecturers can vary widely depending on the institution, level of education, and experience. On average, lecturers at community colleges may earn between $40,000 and $60,000 annually, while those at universities may earn more, potentially exceeding $90,000.

  • Are there opportunities for job advancement in this field?
    Yes, there are advancement opportunities. You can move from lecturer to senior lecturer, assistant professor, associate professor, and eventually full professor. Publishing research and seeking grants can also enhance your career prospects.

  • How can I enhance my employability as an American History Lecturer?
    Consider publishing research, presenting at conferences, and engaging in professional organizations related to history. Networking with other professionals in the field and gaining additional teaching certifications can further improve your employability.

  • What types of institutions hire American History Lecturers?
    American History Lecturers are employed at various educational institutions, including community colleges, universities, and online education platforms. High schools may also hire lecturers for specialized courses or advanced classes.

  • What is the job outlook for American History Lecturers?
    The job outlook for American History Lecturers is generally stable. While the demand for faculty positions can fluctuate based on enrollment and funding, the need for qualified educators in history persists, particularly as interest in the subject continues.

  • Do I need to be involved in research as a lecturer?
    At community colleges, research may not be a primary requirement. However, at universities, faculty members are often expected to conduct research and publish their findings. Engaging in research can enhance your teaching and contribute to your professional development.

  • Can I teach online as an American History Lecturer?
    Yes, many institutions offer online courses in American history. With the growing demand for remote education, having experience with online teaching platforms and tools can be an asset in securing a position.