Psychology Teachers, Postsecondary
Psychology teachers at colleges and universities instruct students in psychology courses covering areas such as child development, clinical practice, and psychological counseling. They work in academic departments at four-year universities, community colleges, and specialized institutions, combining classroom instruction with research, grading, and academic advising.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against psychology 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 psychology classes, creating or updating course materials, and grading exams and papers. Psychology teachers meet with students during office hours to discuss coursework and research interests, serve on department committees, and often conduct their own research or supervise student research projects. Some time goes toward writing grant proposals, publishing findings, or attending academic conferences.
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 likely enjoy this work if you are drawn to understanding human behavior and motivations and are comfortable asking research questions and analyzing data to answer them. People who succeed here combine a genuine interest in teaching with curiosity about psychological science and the patience to guide others through complex material.
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 | $81,600 | $107,340 | $165,660 | 4,410 |
| Delaware | $72,550 | $102,340 | $127,930 | — |
| Maryland | $77,910 | $101,430 | $130,300 | 640 |
| District of Columbia | $79,020 | $101,250 | $123,300 | 340 |
| New York | $77,670 | $100,720 | $128,060 | 4,070 |
| Michigan | $67,430 | $99,900 | $122,570 | 920 |
| North Dakota | $79,810 | $97,110 | $104,560 | 60 |
| New Hampshire | $79,320 | $95,030 | $129,720 | 110 |
| Rhode Island | $77,570 | $94,360 | $103,880 | 180 |
| Utah | $66,780 | $93,090 | $98,940 | 200 |
| Louisiana | $64,820 | $91,340 | $105,600 | 140 |
| Connecticut | $73,160 | $84,500 | $120,430 | 920 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- LIUNA Instructor Certification — LIUNA Training & Education
- Academic Certification in Biofeedback — Biofeedback Certification International Alliance
- Academic Certification in Neurofeedback — Biofeedback Certification International Alliance
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 psychology teachers, postsecondary and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 25-1066.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.