Physics Teachers, Postsecondary
Teach courses pertaining to the laws of matter and energy. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
Common Job Titles
- Instructor
- Physics Instructor
- Physics Professor
- Professor
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- KnowledgeDesign physics curricula and instructional materials integrating advanced mathematical concepts with experimental demonstrations for undergraduate and graduate courses.Advanced
- KnowledgeCreate original research investigations and scholarly publications advancing knowledge in specialized physics domains while mentoring graduate students.Advanced
- MindsetModel scientific inquiry and ethical research practices when collaborating with students, colleagues, and interdisciplinary research teams.Advanced
- KnowledgeSynthesize cross-disciplinary knowledge from mathematics, engineering, and computational science to address complex theoretical and applied physics problems in teaching and research.Advanced
- KnowledgeExplain complex physical phenomena including quantum mechanics, thermodynamics, and electromagnetism to diverse student populations using multiple pedagogical approaches.Proficient
- KnowledgeAnalyze experimental data and computational simulations using advanced mathematical techniques and specialized software such as MATLAB, Mathematica, and LabVIEW.Proficient
- KnowledgeEvaluate student comprehension and mastery of physics principles through multiple assessment methods including problem sets, laboratory reports, and examinations.Proficient
- MindsetIntegrate student-centered learning strategies with rigorous content delivery to foster critical thinking and scientific curiosity in postsecondary physics education.Proficient
- Hands-onDemonstrate mastery of laboratory equipment including laser systems, spectrometers, and nuclear counting instruments while teaching experimental physics techniques to students.Proficient
- Hands-onOperate multimedia presentation technologies and interactive whiteboards to deliver engaging lectures and facilitate remote learning environments.Proficient
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Physics Teachers, Postsecondary (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
13,590
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $54,880. 25th percentile: U.S. $66,730. 50th percentile: U.S. $97,360. 75th percentile: U.S. $130,150. 90th percentile: U.S. $169,740. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $54,880 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $169,740 |
| Workers on average earn | $105,460 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Mathematics4.8/5
- Physics4.5/5
- Education and Training4.4/5
- English Language4.2/5
- Computers and Electronics3.9/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- Autodesk AutoCAD
- C
- C++
- Google Docs
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Word
- Perl
- The MathWorks MATLAB
Technology Skills
- Blackboard Learn
- Calendar and scheduling software
- Collaborative editing software
- Computer aided design CAD software
- Course management system software
- DOC Cop
- Desire2Learn LMS software
- Edmodo
Tools & Equipment
- Analytical ultracentrifuges
- Carousel slide projectors
- Circular dichroism CD spectrometers
- Compact digital cameras
- Compact disk CD players
- Computer data input scanners
- Computer laser printers
- Concave mirrors