FAQ
Education Professor FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as an education professor.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming an education professor: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about education professors
Do education professors need K–12 experience?
Usually, yes.
What degree do they need?
Usually an Ed.D. or Ph.D.
Do they visit schools?
Yes, to supervise student teachers.
How much does an education professor make?
The median annual wage for education professors was $75,350 in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $39,530 and the highest 10% earned more than $126,860.
How long does it take to become an education professor?
Most people need about 8+ years including teaching of training. A doctorate in education (Ed.D. or Ph.D.) and K–12 teaching experience are typical.
Do you need a degree to be an education professor?
Usually. BLS lists a doctoral degree as typical for postsecondary teachers. Universities generally require a doctorate, while community colleges often hire instructors with a master’s degree and professional experience.
Is education professor a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +2.5% from 2025–35 (about as fast as average), with about 5,300 openings each year. Upsides include shape future teachers; a common challenge is that lower pay for academia.
What skills does an education professor need?
Key technical skills include pedagogy, curriculum design, classroom observation, and education research. Employers also value mentoring, communication, and empathy.
What certifications are available for education professors?
Common credentials include Ed.D. or Ph.D., Teaching license, National Board Certification, and Research grants. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Still deciding?
Try the Education Professor fit quiz, compare with Elementary School Teacher, or explore Education Professor training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 25-1081 (Education teachers, postsecondary).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Education 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.