An article based on a 3-year study of the American professoriate is presented. The academic labor market, it is concluded, may be heading into unprecedented competition for the best talent. Improvement of the work environment may be as important as growth in compensation. (MLW)

The impact of upheavals in U.S. higher education on the professoriate was examined, focusing on such factors as declines in enrollment and governmental support, and shifts in enrollment among fields of study. Characteristics of faculty were identified, including their tasks and capabilities, personal background, attitudes and values, emergent…