How to Become a College Professor for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Many aspiring educators wonder about the steps to becoming a college professor but don’t know where to start. The path can seem complex, with varying degree requirements, teaching expectations, and research commitments depending on the field and institution.

This article breaks down how to become a college professor, covering essential qualifications, career paths, and job market insights. Prepared by experts in career planning, it provides clear guidance to help prospective professors navigate their journey—from earning advanced degrees to securing a faculty position. Whether aiming for a tenure-track role or exploring alternative academic careers, this guide offers the answers needed to take the next step.

Key Things You Should Know about Becoming a College Professor

Research university professors teach 6–9 hours; others teach more.
A Ph.D. takes 6–13 years, varying by field.
Publishing is key; top journal acceptance rates are low.
Professors earn $112K; law professors make up to $176K.
Tenure-track jobs are competitive; adjunct roles are common.

What does a college professor do?
What degree do you need to become a college professor for 2025?
How do you gain teaching experience for a professor role?
How important is research and publishing in becoming a professor?
What is the tenure track, and how does it work?
How much do college professors make?
Can an online EdD program effectively prepare you for a college professor role?
What challenges must college professors overcome in today’s academic landscape?
How can an online PhD in leadership and management boost your academic career?
What emerging trends are shaping the future of college professorship?
How can an advanced EdD degree boost your academic leadership skills?
What alternative academic career paths can complement a college professorship?
How competitive is the job market for college professors?
Can you become a college professor without a Ph.D.?
What skills do you need to be a successful professor?
How can you increase your chances of becoming a professor?
Other Things You Should Know about Becoming a College Professor

What does a college professor do?

A college professor teaches students, conducts research, and contributes to their academic field. Their responsibilities vary based on the type of institution where they work.

Teaching – Professors at research universities typically teach 6–9 hours per week, while those at teaching-focused colleges may teach 12–15 hours. Community college faculty often have the heaviest teaching loads, averaging 15–18 hours weekly.
Research and publishing – Many professors conduct studies, write academic papers, and publish books to contribute to their field.
Advising and mentoring – They guide students on coursework, research projects, and career paths. Many professors also mentor students pursuing alternative teaching credentials, such as those completing online ESL teaching certification programs.
Administrative duties – Some handle department tasks, curriculum planning, or serve on committees.
Public engagement – Professors may speak at conferences, collaborate with industry experts, or contribute to policy discussions.

standard teaching load per academic year

What degree do you need to become a college professor for 2025?

Most college professors need a doctoral degree in their field, but requirements vary by subject and institution. Some positions, especially at community colleges or in applied fields, may accept a master’s degree.

Doctoral degrees

A Ph.D. is the standard requirement for most tenure-track positions. The time to complete a Ph.D. depends on the field:

Physical and Earth Sciences – Around 6.3 years
Engineering – About 6.8 years
Psychology and Social Sciences – Typically 7.9 years
Education – Can take up to 13 years

Master’s degrees

In some cases, a master’s degree is enough, especially in fields like fine arts, business, and education. Community colleges and some four-year institutions may hire professors with a master’s, particularly in subjects like English, mathematics, and history degrees.

Professional degrees

For law and medicine, a J.D. or M.D. is required instead of a Ph.D. Business schools often prefer candidates with an MBA and significant industry experience.

Understanding degree requirements is a key step in learning how to become a college professor. The right path depends on the subject, career goals, and type of institution.

How do you gain teaching experience for a professor role?

Aspiring professors can gain teaching experience through graduate programs, adjunct positions, and tutoring. Many start by teaching during their doctoral studies or working in related roles.

Graduate teaching assistantships – Many Ph.D. students work as teaching assistants (TAs), leading discussions, grading assignments, and assisting professors. As of 2023, about 142,306 graduate TAs are employed in the U.S.
Adjunct or part-time teaching – Teaching as an adjunct professor at a college or community college provides hands-on experience and helps build a teaching portfolio. Some also gain experience through roles like what do you need to be a substitute teacher, which offer valuable classroom exposure.
Tutoring and mentoring – Working as a tutor, academic coach, or mentor helps develop skills in explaining concepts and engaging students.
Online and continuing education courses – Teaching online courses or professional development workshops offers experience in different learning environments.
Teaching in related fields – Experience in corporate training, educational outreach, or adult education can also build relevant skills.

Gaining teaching experience is an essential step in how to become a college professor. It helps develop instructional skills, classroom management techniques, and a deeper understanding of student learning.

number of graduate teaching assistants in the U.S.

How important is research and publishing in becoming a professor?

Research and publishing are essential for securing a tenure-track professor role, especially at research universities. Publishing in peer-reviewed journals builds credibility and demonstrates expertise in a field.

Getting published in top academic journals is highly competitive. Prestigious journals like Nature and Science accept only about 7–8% of submissions. The American Economic Review has a similar acceptance rate of around 8% for regular submissions. In engineering, life sciences, and physical sciences, acceptance rates vary widely, averaging 32%, with some journals accepting as few as 1.1% of submissions.

Professors are expected to contribute original research that advances knowledge in their discipline. Many institutions require published work for hiring, promotion, and tenure decisions.

For those exploring advanced academic careers, understanding what is the difference between a PhD and an EdD can clarify which path aligns better with research-intensive goals. Even at teaching-focused colleges, publishing can enhance career growth and establish authority in the field.

What is the tenure track, and how does it work?

The tenure track is a career path for professors that leads to a permanent faculty position. It typically lasts six to seven years and includes regular evaluations based on teaching, research, and service to the institution.

New professors start as assistant professors. During this period, they must publish research, contribute to their academic field, and demonstrate strong teaching skills. Many also mentor students, including those pursuing an online math education degree or other specialized fields.

After several years, faculty members undergo a tenure review. If successful, they are promoted to associate professor with job security. Those who continue excelling in research and teaching may later become full professors.

Tenure protects academic freedom and provides long-term stability. However, not all institutions offer tenure-track roles, and competition for these positions is high. Understanding the tenure process is an important step in planning an academic career.

How much do college professors make?

The average salary for full-time college professors in the 2023–24 academic year was $112,300. Salaries vary by discipline, experience, and institution type, with some fields offering significantly higher earnings.

Law professors

Law professors earn some of the highest salaries, with an average of $133,950. Top earners in this field can make up to $176,900.

Health specialties professors

Professors in health-related fields earn an average of $127,640, with top salaries reaching $167,120.

Economics professors

Economics professors make an average of $122,750, while top earners in the field can reach $144,980.

Physics and chemistry professors

Physics professors earn an average of $100,810, with the highest salaries at $125,950. Chemistry professors earn about $112,687 annually.

For those researching how to become a college professor, salary potential is an important factor. While earnings depend on specialization and experience, tenured faculty at top universities often have the highest salaries.

Can an online EdD program effectively prepare you for a college professor role?

Online EdD programs offer a flexible and applied approach to doctoral education that can complement traditional academic pathways. These programs focus on advanced leadership, innovative pedagogy, and contemporary research methods, equipping candidates with skills essential for modern educational settings. They emphasize practical strategies for curriculum development and academic administration while fostering collaborative research initiatives. For those looking to accelerate their qualification process without compromising educational quality, exploring the fastest online EdD programs can provide a competitive edge.

What challenges must college professors overcome in today’s academic landscape?

College professors face multifaceted challenges that extend beyond meeting research and teaching benchmarks. They must manage extensive administrative responsibilities and adapt to rapidly evolving digital teaching platforms, all while upholding rigorous academic standards. Securing funding, publishing innovative research, and navigating institutional politics often strain work-life balance. Many educators also seek to enhance their teaching methodologies by acquiring additional credentials, such as the cheapest teaching degree online, which can offer practical strategies to modernize classroom practices.

How can an online PhD in leadership and management boost your academic career?

Pursuing an advanced doctorate online in leadership and management can provide a strategic edge for those looking to advance into senior academic and administrative roles. This qualification sharpens critical leadership and decision-making skills that support effective curriculum development, grant acquisition, and program management. By addressing evolving institutional challenges with rigorous analytical training, faculty can enhance their capacity to influence academic policies and secure research funding. For professionals aiming to merge pedagogical expertise with executive capabilities, enrolling in an online PhD in leadership and management offers a focused path to bolster both academic credibility and long-term career prospects.

What emerging trends are shaping the future of college professorship?

Recent shifts in higher education underscore the importance of adaptability and forward-thinking practices among college professors. Faculty increasingly integrate digital tools, interdisciplinary methodologies, and innovative pedagogical approaches to meet evolving student needs and institutional goals. Embracing blended and remote learning environments, for example, not only widens a professor’s reach but also demands continual skill advancement—such as improving digital communication and staying current with emerging education technologies. Exploring options like affordable online English master's degrees can provide valuable expertise in modern curriculum design and international communication, further enhancing a professor’s ability to innovate in a competitive academic landscape.

How can an advanced EdD degree boost your academic leadership skills?

An advanced EdD degree offers targeted training in educational leadership and strategic management, enabling professors to transition into influential administrative roles. This degree emphasizes decision-making, curriculum innovation, and effective resource management while allowing professionals to balance their teaching responsibilities. By focusing on practical solutions to institutional challenges, an EdD can serve as a catalyst for long-term career growth in academia. For detailed program options, explore our article about affordable EdD programs.

What alternative academic career paths can complement a college professorship?

College professors looking to diversify their professional portfolio can explore alternative academic roles that expand both their teaching and research impact. These roles include academic consulting, interdisciplinary project leadership, and participation in specialized research centers that often bridge industry and education. Engaging in professional development through collaborative research initiatives or administrative responsibilities can also create a more robust career profile. Additionally, exploring adjacent fields such as library science careers can offer complementary expertise and broaden an academic’s scope beyond traditional classroom and research settings.

How competitive is the job market for college professors?

For those exploring how to become a college professor, they should know that the job market for college professors is highly competitive. This is even truer for tenure-track positions at research universities. Many candidates hold advanced degrees and have extensive research experience, making it difficult to secure a permanent faculty role.

Full-time, tenure-track positions are limited, and many new Ph.D. graduates start in adjunct or temporary roles. Competition is especially tough in humanities and social sciences, where there are more applicants than available positions. In contrast, fields like engineering, healthcare, and computer science may have more openings due to industry demand.

For those exploring academia in nontraditional fields like defense or behavioral science, understanding the military psychologist career guide can offer insight into alternative paths.

Remember, institutions prioritize candidates with strong research portfolios, teaching experience, and published work. Networking, postdoctoral research, and teaching assistantships can improve job prospects.

Can you become a college professor without a Ph.D.?

Yes, you can become a college professor without a Ph.D., but opportunities are more limited. Many community colleges and some teaching-focused institutions hire professors with a master’s degree, especially in fields like education, business, and the arts.

In highly specialized areas such as law, business, and healthcare, industry experience can sometimes substitute for a doctoral degree. For example, professionals with an MBA degree online and significant real-world experience may qualify to teach business courses at some colleges.

Adjunct positions are another option for those without a Ph.D. These roles are typically part-time and do not offer tenure, but they provide teaching experience.

While a Ph.D. is usually required for tenure-track positions at research universities, alternative pathways exist for those with strong professional backgrounds or teaching credentials.

What skills do you need to be a successful professor?

To be a successful professor, you need a mix of academic expertise, communication skills, and mentorship abilities. Teaching alone isn’t enough—professors must engage students, conduct research, and contribute to their fields.

Key skills include:

Effective communication – Professors must explain complex ideas in simple terms, both in lectures and academic writing.
Mentorship – Guiding students can improve their academic success. Research shows that students with mentors see a 2% to 20% increase in GPA.
Time management – Balancing teaching, research, and administrative duties requires strong organizational skills.
Critical thinking – Professors must evaluate research, solve academic problems, and encourage students to think independently.
Adaptability – Teaching methods evolve, so staying updated with new technology and learning strategies is essential.

Professors who excel in these areas can make a lasting impact on students and the academic community.

How can you increase your chances of becoming a professor?

To improve your chances of becoming a professor, you need a strong academic background, teaching experience, and research contributions. The competition is high, so standing out is essential.

Earning advanced degrees is a key step. While a Ph.D. is often required, pursuing 1 year master’s programs online can be a faster way to gain specialized knowledge and build credentials.

Gaining teaching experience is also important. Working as a graduate teaching assistant or adjunct instructor helps develop classroom skills and makes you a stronger candidate.

Publishing research in respected journals is another way to stand out. Universities prefer candidates with a solid record of academic contributions.

Networking with professionals in your field can open job opportunities. Attending conferences, collaborating on research, and joining academic organizations can help you connect with hiring committees.

A strong mix of education, experience, and connections can improve your chances of securing a professor role.

Here’s What Graduates Have to Say about Becoming a College Professor

Teaching at the college level has given me the opportunity to shape young minds while continuing my own research. The balance of academic freedom and intellectual engagement makes every day rewarding. Seeing students develop critical thinking skills is one of the most fulfilling aspects of the job. – Anthony

Becoming a professor allowed me to combine my love for teaching with my passion for research. The ability to mentor students, watch them grow, and contribute to my field through publishing has made this career incredibly satisfying. It’s challenging but deeply rewarding in ways I never imagined. – Scott

I always wanted a career that was both intellectually stimulating and meaningful, and being a professor has provided that. The constant learning, discussions with students, and ability to explore new ideas make this job more than just a profession—it’s a lifelong pursuit of knowledge. – Chris

Other Things You Should Know about Becoming a College Professor

Can you become a professor with industry experience instead of a Ph.D.?

Yes, industry experience can sometimes substitute for a Ph.D., especially in fields like business, engineering, and the arts. Many colleges hire professors with extensive professional backgrounds for adjunct or lecturer roles. Some institutions also offer full-time positions for experts who bring real-world knowledge to the classroom. While tenure-track roles usually require a doctorate, having a strong industry reputation, publications, and teaching experience can increase your chances of securing a faculty position.

Can online teaching experience help in becoming a professor?

Yes, online teaching experience can be valuable in becoming a professor, especially as universities expand digital learning programs. It demonstrates adaptability, technological proficiency, and the ability to engage students remotely. Many institutions now offer online or hybrid courses, making prior experience in virtual classrooms an asset. While traditional in-person teaching remains important, online experience can strengthen a candidate’s qualifications, particularly for adjunct roles or positions at institutions with strong online programs.

Are there alternative career paths for Ph.D. graduates outside academia?

Yes, Ph.D. graduates have many career options beyond academia. They can work in research and development, government agencies, consulting, or industry roles in fields like healthcare, technology, and finance. Many also pursue careers in science communication, policy advising, or data analysis. Some leverage their expertise to become entrepreneurs or join think tanks. With strong analytical and problem-solving skills, Ph.D. holders can thrive in various industries outside university teaching.

What technology skills are essential for modern college professors?

College professors need strong technology skills to enhance teaching, research, and communication. They should be proficient in learning management systems (LMS) like Blackboard or Canvas, virtual meeting tools such as Zoom, and research databases. Digital presentation tools, online collaboration platforms, and basic data analysis software are also essential. As online and hybrid education grows, understanding instructional design and multimedia content creation can improve student engagement. Staying updated with emerging tech helps professors adapt to evolving academic environments.