FAQ
Psychology Professor FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a psychology professor.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a psychology professor: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about psychology professors
Do psychology professors need a Ph.D.?
Usually at universities; community colleges often accept a master’s.
Do they see clients?
Only clinical faculty who are licensed psychologists.
Is psychology popular?
Yes, it’s one of the most popular majors.
How much does a psychology professor make?
The median annual wage for psychology professors was $80,340 in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $49,050 and the highest 10% earned more than $153,600.
How long does it take to become a psychology professor?
Most people need about 5–7 years after a bachelor’s of training. A Ph.D. in psychology is typical for universities; community colleges often accept a master’s degree.
Do you need a degree to be a psychology 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.
Is psychology professor a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +4.0% from 2025–35 (about as fast as average), with about 3,700 openings each year. Upsides include popular, engaging subject; a common challenge is that large classes.
What skills does a psychology professor need?
Key technical skills include psychological science, research methods, statistics, and experiment design. Employers also value mentoring, communication, and empathy.
What certifications are available for psychology professors?
Common credentials include Ph.D. in psychology, Licensed psychologist, IRB training, and Research grants. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Still deciding?
Try the Psychology Professor fit quiz, compare with Industrial-Organizational Psychologist, or explore Psychology Professor training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 25-1066 (Psychology teachers, postsecondary).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Psychology 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.