Career roadmap
How to Become a Business Professor
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a business professor, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a business professor: (1) earn a bachelor’s and master’s, (2) gain business experience, (3) complete a doctorate, (4) publish research, (5) get hired. Most people need about 5–7 years after a bachelor’s. BLS lists “doctoral or professional degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a business professor
Earn a bachelor’s and master’s
Often an MBA.
Gain business experience
Helps teaching.
Complete a doctorate
Ph.D. or DBA.
Publish research
Build a record.
Get hired
Tenure-track or teaching role.
Education and training requirements
A Ph.D. or DBA is typical for university roles; community colleges often accept an MBA with professional experience.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Doctoral or professional degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | 5–7 years after a bachelor’s |
Certifications and licenses
- Ph.D. or DBA: Doctoral degree.
- CPA or CFA: Valued for accounting and finance faculty.
- AACSB faculty qualification: Accreditation standards.
- Teaching certificate: Optional college teaching training.
Skills to build now
Start with business strategy, case teaching, and research methods, and practice public speaking and mentoring. Learning the business professor vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Adjunct or Doctoral Student: Teach while training.
- Assistant Professor: Tenure track.
- Associate Professor: Earn tenure.
- Professor or Dean: Lead the school.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Business Professor training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
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.
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.
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.