Postsecondary Teachers, All Other Salary Guide 2025: $77,640 Median, Slow Growth
The median salary for Postsecondary Teachers, All Other is $77,640 per year, according to the latest BLS data. That works out to roughly $37 per hour, with the typical range spanning from $44,300 at the 10th percentile to $160,700 at the 90th. This broad range reflects the diversity of roles gathered under this catch-all occupation, from adjunct instructors at community colleges to specialized lecturers at research universities.
How much Postsecondary Teachers, All Other earn
Nationally, the mean annual wage is $90,630. Half of all workers earn between the 25th percentile ($53,570) and 75th percentile ($117,330). The occupation employed about 149,840 people in the U.S. as of the latest count.
Several factors drive pay differences. Institution type matters: four-year universities tend to pay more than community colleges or technical schools. Field of specialization also plays a role; teachers in high-demand disciplines like health, engineering, or business often command higher salaries.
Pay by state
Delaware tops the list with an average salary of $101,070, followed by California at $100,690, Massachusetts at $94,480, New Jersey at $85,260, and Oklahoma at $84,550. These states generally have a higher cost of living or strong investments in higher education.
On the lower end, Alabama pays $51,060 on average, Hawaii $49,730, and Wyoming $46,710. The large spread — roughly $54,000 between the highest and lowest states — means location should be a key consideration in your job search.
How to become Postsecondary Teachers, All Other
There is no single path into this catch-all category, but most positions require at least a master's degree. Teaching at a four-year university usually demands a doctoral degree in the subject field. Community colleges often accept a master's plus relevant experience.
- Earn at least a master's degree in the field you want to teach. Doctorates are common for university roles.
- Gain teaching experience as a graduate teaching assistant or adjunct instructor.
- Some specialty areas require professional certification or licensure (e.g., nursing, engineering).
- Build a record of scholarship or professional work. Publications can help at research institutions.
- Apply for open positions at colleges, universities, and technical schools. Job titles vary widely.
Job outlook
Employment for Postsecondary Teachers, All Other is projected to grow 1.8% from 2024 to 2034, slower than the average for all occupations. That translates to roughly 13,500 openings per year, mostly from workers retiring or moving to other jobs.
Growth will be driven by rising college enrollment in some regions and fields, but budget pressures at many institutions may limit hiring. Competition for tenure-track positions will remain strong; part-time and adjunct roles are more plentiful.
Frequently asked questions
What is the typical salary for a Postsecondary Teacher, All Other?
The median annual salary is $77,640, with a typical range from $44,300 to $160,700. The mean wage is $90,630.
What education do I need to become a Postsecondary Teacher, All Other?
Most positions require a master's degree at minimum. Doctorates are often needed for university teaching. Some fields also require professional licensure.
Is the job market growing for Postsecondary Teachers, All Other?
Employment is expected to grow 1.8% from 2024 to 2034, slower than average. About 13,500 openings per year are projected due to replacement needs.
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 Postsecondary Teachers, All Other data.