Teaching Assistants, Postsecondary Salary 2025: Median $42,910, Highest Pay in Maryland
Postsecondary teaching assistants earned a median $42,910 in 2024, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That works out to roughly $21 an hour. The top 10% of earners pull in over $76,420, while the bottom 10% make around $28,600. With 164,090 people working in this occupation and 24,600 openings projected each year, it's a steady entry point into academia.
How much Teaching Assistants, Postsecondary earn
The national median salary for postsecondary teaching assistants is $42,910. The mean annual wage is slightly higher at $47,670, reflecting the influence of higher-paid positions. Hourly, the mean works out to about $21.
The typical range spans from $28,600 at the 10th percentile to $76,420 at the 90th percentile. Your actual pay depends heavily on the institution, your field, and whether you're a graduate assistant or a non-student employee.
Graduate teaching assistants often receive tuition waivers in addition to a stipend, which can boost total compensation significantly. However, the salary figures here reflect only cash wages.
Pay by state
Maryland leads with an average annual salary of $58,330 for postsecondary teaching assistants. Massachusetts follows at $56,370, Texas at $55,670, New Jersey at $54,260, and Minnesota at $53,380. These states tend to have higher costs of living and stronger public university systems.
Lowest-paying states include Nevada ($24,960), Arkansas ($23,140), and Alabama ($22,600). Salaries in these states are roughly half of what you'd earn in the highest-paying states.
How to become Teaching Assistants, Postsecondary
Most postsecondary teaching assistant positions require at least a bachelor's degree. Many are filled by graduate students pursuing a master's or PhD. For community colleges, a bachelor's may be sufficient; for universities, enrollment in a graduate program is often mandatory.
Certification is not required for this role. Typical entry involves applying directly to a department or being assigned as part of a graduate school funding package. Strong grades, subject knowledge, and communication skills help you stand out.
- Earn a bachelor's degree (or be enrolled in a graduate program).
- Build expertise in the subject you'll assist with.
- Apply via university departmental listings or graduate assistantship offers.
- Formal teaching experience is not always required, but tutoring or TA experience from undergrad is a plus.
Job outlook
Employment of postsecondary teaching assistants is projected to grow 3.1% from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as the average for all occupations. That translates to roughly 24,600 openings each year, many due to workers leaving the occupation or retiring.
Demand is tied to undergraduate enrollment. Community colleges and mid-sized public universities are the main employers. Competition for positions can vary by field—STEM and business departments often have more openings.
Frequently asked questions
Is $42,910 a typical starting salary for a teaching assistant?
It's near the median. Starting salaries often fall between $28,600 and $35,000 for new TAs, especially if you are a graduate student. Experienced TAs or those in high-cost states can earn well above $50,000.
What is the difference between a teaching assistant and a teacher assistant?
Postsecondary teaching assistants work at colleges or universities, assisting professors with teaching. Teacher assistants (or paraeducators) work in K-12 schools. The roles have different education requirements and pay scales.
Can I become a teaching assistant without a graduate degree?
Yes, especially at community colleges or for certain lab or tutor positions. Many roles require only a bachelor's degree in a relevant field. However, most four-year universities prefer or require current graduate enrollment.
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 Teaching Assistants, Postsecondary data.