Aptly
Careers · Education, training and library

Self-Enrichment Teachers

Self-enrichment teachers instruct individuals or groups in classes focused on personal interest and leisure rather than job training or academic credentials. They work in community centers, art studios, gyms, libraries, and private studios, teaching subjects ranging from painting and music to cooking and dance.

$46,800median pay, U.S., per year
$36,380–$63,210middle half earn
332Kemployed in the U.S.
Bachelor’s degreetypical education · 54% 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 involves planning lesson content, preparing materials, and leading classes that might range from two to several hours. Teachers assess student progress informally, adjust instruction based on engagement, and may manage registration or scheduling. Work hours often extend into evenings or weekends to accommodate students' availability.

Who this work suits

Social
100Artistic
53Enterprising
37Conventional
35Investigative
33Realistic
25

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

This work suits people who enjoy helping others develop new skills in areas they're passionate about and who thrive in creative or social environments. You do well here if you can explain concepts clearly and adapt teaching to different learning styles.

What it takes

Preparation: Medium preparation (vocational training, an associate degree, or related experience). Most people in this occupation hold a bachelor’s degree.

Skills that matter most

SpeakingActive ListeningLearning StrategiesInstructingReading ComprehensionCritical ThinkingActive LearningMonitoring

Knowledge areas

Education and TrainingCustomer and Personal ServiceEnglish Language

Pay by state

State25th pctMedian75th pctEmployed
District of Columbia$60,960$66,430$82,120600
New Hampshire$43,890$59,880$78,5201,820
New York$42,200$57,790$83,92031,120
Connecticut$44,920$55,240$76,6805,080
Oregon$39,650$53,790$61,8605,580
New Jersey$43,640$53,780$75,75013,380
Vermont$45,150$53,190$84,7201,190
Georgia$34,320$52,320$74,41010,030
Hawaii$45,090$51,960$76,6301,730
Maryland$37,160$51,630$81,0706,570
South Dakota$38,360$49,720$64,540140
California$40,480$49,570$74,64060,260
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 self-enrichment teachers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
Find out in 15 minutes See openings

O*NET-SOC 25-3021.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.