Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary Salary 2025: $84,620 Median
The median salary for postsecondary biological science teachers in the U.S. is $84,620 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That works out to roughly $41 per hour. The middle half of earners fall between $52,150 and $169,900, meaning top professors in the 90th percentile make over $169,000.
This occupation employs about 50,190 people nationwide. With a projected growth rate of 7.3% from 2024 to 2034—faster than the average for all occupations—colleges and universities will need to fill roughly 5,400 new openings each year. If you teach biology at a community college or a major research university, the pay range varies significantly by state, experience, and institution type.
How much Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary earn
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the mean annual wage for postsecondary biological science teachers is $102,840. Since many professors work nine-month contracts, that hourly equivalent of $41 can adjust upward or downward depending on summer teaching, research grants, or administrative stipends.
The typical salary range runs from $52,150 at the 10th percentile to $169,900 at the 90th. New assistant professors at teaching-focused colleges might start near the low end, while tenured full professors at research universities hit the top of the scale. Adjunct or part-time instructors often earn less per course, with lower overall pay.
Pay by state
Where you teach matters a lot for pay. California pays the most, with an average annual wage of $129,150, followed by Massachusetts at $105,050, Michigan at $103,620, New Hampshire at $102,410, and Rhode Island at $102,300.
The lowest-paying states for this occupation are Mississippi ($66,830), Oklahoma ($65,960), and Florida ($57,140). Keep in mind cost of living; a higher salary in California may not stretch as far as a lower one in a more affordable state.
How to become Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary
The standard path starts with a Ph.D. in biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, or a closely related field. Some community colleges hire instructors with a master's degree, but a doctorate is almost always required for tenure-track positions at four-year universities.
During graduate school, you typically work as a teaching assistant, which provides classroom experience. After earning the Ph.D., the next step is often a postdoctoral research fellowship lasting two to five years, then applying for assistant professor openings. Publication record, teaching evaluations, and grant-writing ability are critical. Licensure is not required, but some roles in health-science teaching may prefer clinical certifications.
- Earn a bachelor's degree in biology or a related field.
- Complete a Ph.D. in biological science (or master's for some community colleges).
- Gain teaching experience as a graduate assistant or adjunct professor.
- Publish research and build a strong academic network.
- Apply for tenure-track assistant professor positions.
Job outlook
The BLS projects 7.3% employment growth for postsecondary biological science teachers from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations. About 5,400 openings are expected each year, largely due to retirements and faculty turnover.
Growth is tied to rising college enrollment in biological science and health-related programs. Competition for tenure-track jobs at research universities remains strong, but opportunities at community colleges and for part-time faculty are more accessible.
Frequently asked questions
What is the starting salary for a postsecondary biological science teacher?
The 10th percentile salary is $52,150, which typically reflects newer assistant professors, instructors at community colleges, or faculty in lower-paying regions.
Do I need a Ph.D. to become a biological science professor?
Yes for most tenure-track positions at four-year colleges and universities. Some community colleges may hire instructors with a master's degree.
How many job openings are there each year?
The BLS estimates about 5,400 annual openings from 2024 to 2034, due to growth and replacement needs.
Which state pays the most for this career?
California offers the highest average salary at $129,150, followed by Massachusetts ($105,050) and Michigan ($103,620).
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary data.