FAQ
Business Professor FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a business professor.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a business professor: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about business professors
Do business professors need a Ph.D.?
Usually for universities; community colleges often hire MBAs.
Do business professors consult?
Many do, within university policies.
Is tenure guaranteed?
No, tenure-track jobs are competitive.
How much does a business professor make?
The median annual wage for business professors was $99,080 in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $47,180 and the highest 10% earned more than $209,470.
How long does it take to become a business professor?
Most people need about 5–7 years after a bachelor’s of training. A Ph.D. or DBA is typical for university roles; community colleges often accept an MBA with professional experience.
Do you need a degree to be a business professor?
Usually. BLS lists a doctoral degree as typical for postsecondary teachers. Universities generally require a Ph.D., while community colleges often hire instructors with a master’s degree and professional experience.
Is business professor a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +5.9% from 2025–35 (faster than average), with about 7,600 openings each year. Upsides include high pay for academia; a common challenge is that doctorate and research pressure.
What skills does a business professor need?
Key technical skills include business strategy, case teaching, research methods, and statistics. Employers also value public speaking, mentoring, and organization.
What certifications are available for business professors?
Common credentials include Ph.D. or DBA, CPA or CFA, AACSB faculty qualification, and Teaching certificate. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Still deciding?
Try the Business Professor fit quiz, compare with Management Analyst, or explore Business Professor training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 25-1011 (Business teachers, postsecondary).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Business teachers, postsecondary (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.