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Careers · Education, training and library

Business Teachers, Postsecondary

Business teachers at colleges and universities instruct students in subjects like accounting, finance, human resources, marketing, and operations research. They work in higher education settings, developing curriculum and delivering lectures, seminars, and labs. Many combine teaching with research activities to advance knowledge in their field.

$99,080median pay, U.S., per year
$64,150–$141,710middle half earn
82Kemployed in the U.S.
Docttypical education · 100% hold a bachelor’s or higher
ModerateAI exposure · AI tools can speed up some tasks; the core of the job stays human.
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A day in the work

A typical week includes preparing and teaching multiple course sections, grading assignments and exams, holding office hours to advise students, and serving on departmental committees. Instructors may develop new course materials, update existing ones, and conduct research. Some attend professional conferences or collaborate with colleagues on academic projects and publications.

Who this work suits

Social
90Investigative
64Enterprising
47Conventional
46Artistic
37Realistic
17

Holland code SIE. Social work is helping, teaching and working closely with people. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.

You tend to enjoy analyzing complex problems and understanding how organizations function, which draws you to investigative work. You also value meaningful interaction with students and colleagues, reflecting social interests. Success in this role requires advanced expertise in business topics and comfort with both teaching and research.

What it takes

Preparation: Extensive preparation (graduate degree and/or many years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold doct.

Skills that matter most

SpeakingInstructingReading ComprehensionActive ListeningWritingLearning StrategiesCritical ThinkingActive Learning

Knowledge areas

English LanguageEducation and TrainingAdministration and ManagementEconomics and AccountingMathematics (knowledge)Law and Government

Pay by state

State25th pctMedian75th pctEmployed
Alaska$94,560$168,930$331,040130
Delaware$79,650$130,370$167,870280
Louisiana$81,690$129,040$176,570640
California$80,600$128,470$176,5705,290
District of Columbia$81,170$128,370$172,370630
Maryland$86,220$126,560$165,0802,280
Utah$95,540$115,870$165,540460
Michigan$64,730$111,190$163,3602,240
North Dakota$71,780$110,050$161,610250
New York$77,230$104,490$162,8007,480
West Virginia$77,240$104,480$161,640420
Virginia$64,450$103,860$177,7702,450
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico

Certifications people in this field hold

Training

Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.

Job titles in this occupation

Related occupations

Are you suited for this?
Four short assessments and your background, scored against business teachers, postsecondary and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
Find out in 15 minutes See openings

O*NET-SOC 25-1011.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.