College Professors
Overview
Introduction
College professors instruct undergraduate and graduate students in specific subjects at colleges and universities. They lecture classes, lead small seminar groups, and create and grade examinations. They also may conduct research, write for publication, and aid in administration. Nearly 1.4 million postsecondary teachers are employed in the United States.
Quick Facts
Median Salary
Employment Prospects
Minimum Education Level
Experience
Skills
Personality Traits
Earnings
The lowest 10 percent of all college professors earned less than $49,440, while the highest 10 percent earned more than $182,710, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.
Earnings vary by the departments professors work in, by the size of the school, by the type of school (e.g., public, private, womens only), and by the level of position the professor holds. The annual median wage for ...
Work Environment
A college or university is usually a pleasant place in which to work. Campuses bustle with all types of activities and events, stimulating ideas, and a young, energetic population. Much prestige comes with success as a professor and scholar; professors have the respect of students, colleagues, and others in their community.
Depending on the size of the department, college professors may ...
Outlook
Employment of college professors is projected to grow 8 percent from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all occupations, according to the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). This prediction covers the outlook for both part-time and full-time teachers. Total undergraduate enrollment is projected to increase by 9 percent (from 15.4 million to 16.8 million students) between 2021 and 2031, accor...
