🎓 How much does a university professor make?

• Faculty salary: The university pays a regular salary for the faculty appointment. Source
• Summer pay: Some universities pay extra for summer teaching or certain summer research and instructional work. Source

In the United States, study a science subject in college, then earn a Ph.D. and defend original research. Gain teaching experience as a graduate assistant; science researchers may also do postdoctoral work before applying for faculty jobs.

1. Study a science subject in college and earn a bachelor's degree.
2. Earn a Ph.D. and complete and defend original research.
3. Gain teaching experience as a graduate assistant and research experience if needed.
4. Apply for a faculty job at a college or university.

Qualifications and exams

A Ph.D. is typical at four-year colleges, though some posts accept a master's. Some fields may require a professional license, such as nursing.

In the morning, a science professor may teach a lecture or lab and answer students’ questions. Later, they may run experiments, check results, grade work, and write a research paper.

Does pay differ between science subjects?

Yes. In May 2025, the typical pay was $100,310 for postsecondary physics teachers and $84,620 for biological science teachers. Source

Does pay differ at public and private universities?

In May 2025, typical pay was $96,120 at state colleges and universities and $89,660 at private ones. These figures cover postsecondary teachers overall, not science alone. Source

Can summer work bring extra pay?

Some do. For example, UNC-Chapel Hill has separate pay categories for summer-school teaching and certain summer research or instructional work. Rules vary by university. Source

Do part-time professors teach at several colleges?

Sometimes. The BLS says part-time postsecondary teachers may teach at several colleges or universities, and some also have a full-time job in their field. Source

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