Communications Teachers, Postsecondary Salary Guide 2025: Median $78,580
The median annual salary for postsecondary communications teachers in 2025 is $78,580, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That works out to about $38 per hour. The typical pay range spans from $47,590 at the 10th percentile to $143,720 at the 90th. These figures come from the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics.
How much Communications Teachers, Postsecondary earn
The mean wage for this occupation is $90,010 per year. Half earn more than $78,580; half earn less. Entry-level positions start around $47,590, while the top 10% take home over $143,720.
- Median annual salary: $78,580
- Mean hourly wage: ~$38
- 10th percentile: $47,590
- 90th percentile: $143,720
Pay by state
Where you teach matters. The highest-paid communications professors work in California, where the average salary hits $135,000. Delaware follows at $100,260, then Oregon ($98,900), Connecticut ($97,210), and Rhode Island ($95,910).
At the low end, Mississippi pays an average of $61,290, Arkansas $59,810, and New Mexico $49,880.
- Top states: California ($135,000), Delaware ($100,260), Oregon ($98,900), Connecticut ($97,210), Rhode Island ($95,910)
- Bottom states: Mississippi ($61,290), Arkansas ($59,810), New Mexico ($49,880)
How to become Communications Teachers, Postsecondary
Most postsecondary communications teachers need a doctoral degree in communications, media studies, or a related field. Some community colleges hire with a master’s degree. The path typically starts with a bachelor’s in communications or journalism, followed by a master’s and then a PhD. Teaching experience as a graduate assistant helps. Professional experience in journalism, public relations, or marketing can be a plus.
No specific license is required for academic teaching. Once hired, new professors often work as tenure-track assistant professors and publish research to earn tenure.
- Earn a bachelor's in communications, journalism, or related field
- Complete a master's degree (for community college) or PhD (for university)
- Gain teaching experience as a graduate assistant or adjunct
- Build a research portfolio for tenure-track roles
- Apply to colleges and universities with openings
Job outlook
Employment of postsecondary communications teachers is projected to grow 2.1 percent from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as the average for all occupations. That translates to roughly 2,700 job openings each year over the decade, mostly from retirements and turnover. Currently, 29,420 people work in this occupation across the country.
Frequently asked questions
What is the salary of a postsecondary communications teacher?
The median annual salary is $78,580, with a typical range of $47,590 to $143,720. The mean wage is $90,010.
What education do you need to become a communications professor?
A doctoral degree is standard for university positions; a master's may suffice at community colleges. A bachelor's in communications or a related field is the first step.
What is the job growth for communications teachers?
Employment is projected to grow 2.1% from 2024 to 2034, with about 2,700 openings per year.
Which states pay the most for communications professors?
California tops the list at $135,000 average, followed by Delaware ($100,260) and Oregon ($98,900).
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 Communications Teachers, Postsecondary data.