Math and Computer Science Postsecondary Teacher Salary (2025): $83,070 Median
The median salary for postsecondary math and computer science teachers in the U.S. is $83,070 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The top 10% earn over $162,940, while the bottom 10% make less than $49,320. With 83,150 jobs nationwide, this occupation offers strong pay for those with advanced degrees.
These figures come from the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) program. Note that “postsecondary” includes professors at universities, colleges, and community colleges. Pay varies widely by institution type, location, and rank.
How much Math and Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary earn
The median annual wage for postsecondary math and computer science teachers is $83,070, and the mean wage is $97,040—roughly $40 per hour. The typical range spans from $49,320 at the 10th percentile to $162,940 at the 90th percentile.
Pay depends on academic rank (assistant, associate, full professor), tenure status, and whether the institution is a research university, liberal arts college, or community college. Full professors at doctoral universities often earn well above the 90th percentile.
Pay by state
State-level pay data for this specific occupation is not available from the BLS. However, general trends suggest that states with high costs of living and strong university systems (like California, New York, and Massachusetts) likely pay above the national median, while rural states may pay less.
How to become Math and Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary
Becoming a postsecondary teacher in math or computer science typically requires a doctoral degree (Ph.D.) in the field. For community colleges, a master’s degree may be sufficient. The path includes earning a bachelor’s in a related subject, completing a Ph.D. program (5–6 years), and often gaining teaching or research experience as a graduate assistant.
- Earn a bachelor’s degree in mathematics, computer science, or a closely related field.
- Complete a Ph.D. in mathematics, computer science, or applied computing. Some schools hire terminal master’s holders for teaching-focused roles.
- Gain teaching experience as a graduate teaching assistant or instructor.
- Apply for assistant professor positions. Tenure-track roles require research productivity and publications.
- For community college positions, a master’s degree and teaching experience are often enough.
Job outlook
The BLS does not provide a projected growth rate for this specific occupation from 2024 to 2034. However, overall employment of postsecondary teachers is projected to grow about as fast as the average for all occupations, driven by rising college enrollment in STEM fields. Competition for tenure-track positions at research universities remains strong.
Frequently asked questions
What is the typical starting salary for a math or computer science professor?
Entry-level assistant professors often start around $70,000–$90,000, depending on the institution and location. At community colleges, starting salaries are lower, around $50,000–$65,000.
How do salaries compare between math professors and computer science professors?
Computer science professors typically earn slightly more than math professors due to higher industry demand. The BLS groups both together, so the median of $83,070 blends the two.
Do postsecondary math and computer science teachers get benefits?
Most full-time positions include health insurance, retirement contributions, paid time off, and tuition remission. Tenure-track roles also offer job security after tenure is granted.
Is a Ph.D. required for all postsecondary teaching jobs?
No. Community colleges and some teaching-focused four-year colleges hire instructors with a master’s degree. However, most universities require a Ph.D. for tenure-track positions.
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 Math and Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary data.