The Average Salary of a College Professor

College professors conduct research and educate students at postsecondary schools such as colleges and universities. The salary of a college professor depends on whether or not the professor has tenure and their length of employment.

Background

Tenure is a term used by universities that indicates that professors are permanently appointed to work at the school and that their probationary periods of employment is complete. Professors enter universities as assistant professors, next becoming associate professors, and finally full professors once tenure is achieved.

Assistant Professors

For assistant professors, the reported salary range in July 2009 was $44,405 to $71,708. Assistant professors who averaged the highest annual salaries typically reported having 10 or more years of experience.

Associate Professors

In July 2009, associate professors received $42,412 to $85,592. After five years of employment, associate professors earned a minimum of $52,447.

Full Professors

For full professors, the maximum salary reported in July 2009 was $117,130. During the first four years of employment, full professors earned $40,000 to $71,295.

Law Professors

Full professors of law earned higher salaries than their counterparts in other fields. Law professors' maximum salaries were $173,684. During the first four years of employment, law professors earned between $40,000 and $126,000.

References

• Assistant Professors
• Associate Professors
• Full Professors

Resources

• Law Professors
• University of New Mexico on Professor Ranks