Career roadmap
How to Become an Education Professor
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as an education professor, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become an education professor: (1) earn a bachelor’s and license, (2) teach for several years, (3) earn a master’s, (4) earn a doctorate, (5) get hired. Most people need about 8+ years including teaching. BLS lists “doctoral or professional degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become an education professor
Earn a bachelor’s and license
Teach K–12.
Teach for several years
Experience.
Earn a master’s
Education.
Earn a doctorate
Ed.D. or Ph.D.
Get hired
Faculty role.
Education and training requirements
A doctorate in education (Ed.D. or Ph.D.) and K–12 teaching experience are typical.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Doctoral or professional degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | Less than 5 years |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | 8+ years including teaching |
Certifications and licenses
- Ed.D. or Ph.D.: Doctoral degree.
- Teaching license: K–12 experience.
- National Board Certification: Valued credential.
- Research grants: IES and foundations.
Skills to build now
Start with pedagogy, curriculum design, and classroom observation, and practice mentoring and communication. Learning the education professor vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- K–12 Teacher: Experience.
- Clinical Faculty: Supervise.
- Assistant Professor: Tenure track.
- Professor or Dean: Lead education schools.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Education 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
What degree do they need?
Usually an Ed.D. or Ph.D.
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.
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.
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.