A postsecondary teacher is an educator who provides instruction to students in academic and vocational subjects beyond the high school level. Often called professors or faculty, they work in a wide variety of settings, from large research universities to small community colleges and technical schools. These professionals are specialists in their chosen fields, which can range from history and science to cosmetology and computer repair. They play an important part in preparing students for specific careers or for advanced academic study.
What Postsecondary Teachers Do
The responsibilities of a postsecondary teacher are multifaceted and extend far beyond the classroom lecture. A primary duty is developing a curriculum, which involves creating a detailed syllabus for each course. This plan outlines learning objectives, assignments, and assessment methods. They also spend considerable time planning lessons and designing projects that facilitate learning.
Instruction is the most visible aspect of the job, where teachers engage students through lectures, discussions, and hands-on activities. They are tasked with making complex subject matter understandable and stimulating student participation. Outside of class, a significant amount of time is dedicated to assessing student progress. This involves grading assignments, papers, and exams, and providing constructive feedback.
Many postsecondary teachers also serve as academic advisors and mentors. They hold regular office hours to meet with students one-on-one, offering guidance on course selection, career paths, and academic goals. At universities, a component of the role involves conducting original research in their area of expertise. This research often leads to the publication of scholarly articles and books.
Postsecondary educators are active members of their academic community. They serve on administrative and academic committees that shape institutional policies, departmental matters, and curriculum development. This collaborative work with colleagues is necessary for maintaining and improving the quality of the educational programs offered.
Types of Postsecondary Institutions
Postsecondary teachers work in diverse educational environments, and the specific nature of their role often depends on the type of institution. These settings are divided into four main categories: four-year colleges and universities, community colleges, vocational and trade schools, and online universities.
Four-year colleges and universities are a well-known setting, offering bachelor’s degrees and, in the case of universities, graduate and doctoral programs. Teachers at these institutions, particularly large research universities, are expected to balance teaching with significant research and publishing responsibilities. Colleges are generally smaller than universities and may place a stronger emphasis on undergraduate teaching, while universities often prioritize both undergraduate and graduate education alongside extensive research.
Community colleges, sometimes called junior colleges, are two-year institutions that offer associate degrees and certificate programs. The faculty here primarily focuses on teaching and preparing students to either enter the workforce directly or transfer to a four-year institution. These schools are typically open to all students with a high school diploma or equivalent, making them an accessible entry point to higher education.
Vocational and trade schools provide specialized training for specific occupations, such as cosmetology, mechanics, or construction. The programs are often shorter, ranging from a few weeks to a couple of years, and are designed to equip students with practical, job-ready skills. Instructors in these schools are often hired for their extensive industry experience.
Online universities have become increasingly prevalent. They offer a wide range of degrees and certificates through distance learning, which provides flexibility for both students and faculty.
Educational Requirements to Become a Postsecondary Teacher
The path to becoming a postsecondary teacher requires a significant educational commitment, and the specific requirements vary widely by institution and subject. The level of degree needed is a primary factor, with different expectations for university professors compared to community college instructors or vocational teachers.
For positions at four-year colleges and universities, a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) or another doctoral degree is the standard requirement. Earning a doctorate involves several years of intensive study and culminates in the completion of a dissertation, which is a substantial piece of original research. Some universities may hire candidates with a master’s degree or those who are in the process of completing their doctorate, especially for part-time or specialized roles.
At community colleges, a master’s degree is often the minimum educational qualification required to teach. The focus at these institutions is more on instruction rather than research, so while a Ph.D. is valued, it is not always necessary. The emphasis is on having a deep understanding of the subject and the ability to effectively teach it.
In vocational and trade schools, the educational requirements can be different. For subjects that are highly technical or skill-based, such as welding or culinary arts, extensive work experience can be as important as an advanced academic degree. Some of these roles may also require specific industry licenses or certifications that demonstrate a high level of expertise.
Essential Skills for Postsecondary Teachers
Beyond formal education, succeeding as a postsecondary teacher requires a distinct set of practical skills. A deep and current understanding of one’s subject matter is the foundation upon which all other skills are built. Other skills include:
- Communication and presentation skills to present complex information clearly, plus excellent writing skills for publishing research and providing feedback.
- Critical thinking and analytical abilities for conducting research, evaluating student work, revising curricula, and participating in academic discourse.
- Resourcefulness to adapt teaching methods to suit different learning styles and effectively integrate technology into lessons.
- Interpersonal skills, including patience to mentor students and the ability to work collaboratively with colleagues on committees and departmental projects.
- Organizational and time-management abilities to balance the varied responsibilities of teaching, research, grading, and administrative duties.
Career Outlook and Salary
The career outlook for postsecondary teachers is projected to be positive. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), overall employment in this field is expected to grow by 8 percent from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is anticipated to create about 118,900 job openings each year, largely due to the need to replace workers who are retiring or transitioning to other careers.
Salaries for postsecondary teachers can vary significantly based on factors such as the type of institution, the teacher’s rank, the specific field of study, and geographic location. The BLS reported that the median annual wage for postsecondary teachers was $83,980 in May 2024. The salary range is quite broad, with the lowest 10 percent earning less than $48,570 and the highest 10 percent earning more than $199,520.
Instructors at four-year colleges and universities earn higher wages than those at community colleges or vocational schools. For many professors at universities, a career goal is achieving tenure, a long-term contract that protects them from being dismissed without just cause. This provides a greater degree of academic freedom and job security.