Atmospheric, Earth, Marine, and Space Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary
Atmospheric, Earth, Marine, and Space Sciences Teachers instruct students in courses covering weather systems, geology, oceanography, astronomy, and related physical sciences at colleges and universities. Most work in higher education institutions, though some are employed by research organizations. Many balance teaching with conducting their own research.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against atmospheric, earth, marine, and space sciences teachers, postsecondary and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves preparing and delivering lectures to undergraduate or graduate students, grading assignments and exams, and holding office hours to answer student questions. Instructors develop course materials, update curricula to reflect current scientific findings, and may supervise laboratory work or field studies. Those engaged in research spend additional time designing experiments, analyzing data, writing grant proposals, or publishing findings in academic journals.
Who this work suits
Holland code SIR. Social work is helping, teaching and working closely with people. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to succeed in this role if you enjoy explaining complex natural systems and enjoy investigating scientific questions deeply. People drawn to this work often value both social connection with students and the intellectual challenge of discovering new knowledge in their field.
What it takes
Preparation: Extensive preparation (graduate degree and/or many years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold a master’s degree.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | $99,270 | $133,230 | $202,470 | 1,410 |
| New Jersey | $88,440 | $131,930 | $195,770 | 270 |
| New Hampshire | $86,280 | $130,230 | $163,450 | 50 |
| Oregon | $98,500 | $128,140 | $137,110 | 340 |
| Connecticut | $87,610 | $123,770 | $167,460 | 230 |
| Virginia | $96,950 | $119,940 | $163,710 | 230 |
| Arizona | $79,550 | $110,600 | $136,250 | 240 |
| Massachusetts | $83,430 | $108,930 | $178,480 | 470 |
| Maryland | $80,070 | $107,700 | $152,970 | 180 |
| Wisconsin | $79,520 | $107,370 | $141,200 | 130 |
| New Mexico | $64,970 | $106,990 | $111,670 | 50 |
| Nevada | $84,580 | $105,860 | $126,040 | 60 |
All 40 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- National Board Certification - Science - Adolescence and Young Adulthood — National Board for Professional Teaching Standards
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against atmospheric, earth, marine, and space sciences teachers, postsecondary and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 25-1051.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.