Life Sciences Teacher Salary: $86,480 Median in 2024
The median annual salary for life sciences teachers at U.S. colleges and universities is $86,480, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That works out to roughly $42 an hour. The top 10% earn over $169,240, while the bottom 10% make about $52,070. These figures come from the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics survey.
How much Life Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary earn
Pay varies widely depending on experience, institution type, and location. The mean annual wage across all settings is $102,710. At the 25th percentile, earnings drop to around $62,230; at the 75th percentile, they reach $131,550.
Full-time professors at research universities typically earn more than those at community colleges. Non-tenure-track instructors often fall in the lower half of the range.
- Median: $86,480
- Mean: $102,710 ($42/hr)
- 10th percentile: $52,070
- 90th percentile: $169,240
Pay by state
BLS data does not specify the highest- or lowest-paying states for this occupation. However, states with large public university systems and high costs of living—like California, New York, and Massachusetts—tend to pay above the national median. Rural states and those with fewer research institutions often fall below the national average.
How to become Life Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary
The standard path requires a doctoral degree in a life science field such as biology, biochemistry, or ecology. A master's degree may suffice for community college positions, but tenure-track jobs at four-year universities expect a Ph.D.
Postdoctoral experience (typically 2–5 years) is almost mandatory for research-focused faculty roles. Teaching experience as a graduate teaching assistant helps. Professional certifications are not required, but many teachers pursue ongoing research grants to advance.
- Earn a Ph.D. in a life science discipline.
- Complete postdoctoral research (often 2–5 years).
- Gain teaching experience as a TA or instructor.
- Apply for tenure-track faculty positions.
Job outlook
The BLS does not provide a specific growth projection for this occupation from 2024 to 2034. General demand for postsecondary teachers is expected to grow about 8% over that decade, in line with average for all occupations. Employment of life sciences teachers totals 60,630 nationwide.
Frequently asked questions
What is the average salary for a life sciences professor?
The mean annual wage is $102,710, while the median is $86,480.
Do life sciences teachers need a PhD?
Most tenure-track positions at four-year universities require a PhD. Community colleges may accept a master's degree.
How many life sciences teachers are employed in the US?
The BLS reports 60,630 workers in this occupation as of May 2024.
What is the job growth for postsecondary life sciences teachers?
The BLS has not published a specific growth rate for this occupation, but overall postsecondary teacher growth is projected at 8% through 2034.
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 Life Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary data.