Philosophy and Religion Teachers, Postsecondary
Philosophy and religion teachers at the college and university level instruct students in courses covering philosophical thought, religious studies, and theology. They work in higher education institutions, balancing classroom instruction with research and scholarly work. These positions require advanced degrees and often involve both teaching and contributing to academic knowledge in their fields.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against philosophy and religion 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 and graduate students, grading essays and exams, and holding office hours to meet with students. Teachers develop course curricula, stay current with scholarship in their discipline, and often conduct their own research or writing projects. Committee work and departmental meetings account for additional time, along with revising course materials and corresponding with students about their progress.
Who this work suits
Holland code SIA. Social work is helping, teaching and working closely with people. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You're suited to this work if you enjoy examining complex ideas and asking fundamental questions about belief, meaning, and ethics. Success requires patience with abstract thinking, strong writing and speaking skills, and the ability to help others engage thoughtfully with difficult material—strengths that come naturally to those with investigative and social interests.
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
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | $89,530 | $105,820 | $153,940 | 1,850 |
| Maine | $77,550 | $102,760 | $135,720 | 60 |
| Vermont | $76,790 | $102,600 | $131,580 | 80 |
| Hawaii | $79,680 | $101,010 | $128,170 | 220 |
| Connecticut | $75,480 | $100,360 | $134,310 | 350 |
| New Jersey | $62,450 | $99,450 | $130,850 | 900 |
| Massachusetts | $64,060 | $98,360 | $133,890 | 890 |
| Utah | $73,990 | $95,410 | $123,470 | 60 |
| New York | $74,980 | $92,050 | $122,150 | 1,700 |
| Michigan | $63,140 | $89,610 | $103,510 | 620 |
| Virginia | $62,130 | $85,310 | $105,800 | 620 |
| Oregon | $67,390 | $85,300 | $100,280 | 480 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
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
Four short assessments and your background, scored against philosophy and religion teachers, postsecondary and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 25-1126.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.