Postsecondary teachers instruct students in a wide variety of academic and career and technical subjects beyond the high school level. They also conduct research and publish scholarly papers and books.

Postsecondary teachers work in public and private colleges and universities, professional schools, junior or community colleges, and career and technical schools. Outside of class time, their schedules are generally flexible, and they may spend that time in administrative, student advising, and research activities.

Educational requirements vary by subject and the type of educational institution. Most commonly, postsecondary teachers must have a Ph.D. However, a master's degree may be enough for some postsecondary teachers at community colleges. In career and technical schools, work experience may be important for getting a postsecondary teaching job.

The median annual wage for postsecondary teachers was $72,470 in May 2015.

Employment of postsecondary teachers is projected to grow 13 percent from 2014 to 2024, faster than the average for all occupations. Growth is expected as enrollments at postsecondary institutions continue to rise, although it will be at a slower rate than it has been in the past. Many jobs are expected to be for part time faculty.

Explore resources for employment and wages by state and area for postsecondary teachers.

Compare the job duties, education, job growth, and pay of postsecondary teachers with similar occupations.

Learn more about postsecondary teachers by visiting additional resources, including O*NET, a source on key characteristics of workers and occupations.