Atmospheric, Earth, Marine, and Space Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary

These educators spend their days training and teaching college students, which requires strong skills in speaking, instructing, active listening, and reading comprehension. They must gather information, analyze data, and interpret complex scientific meanings for others. Working with computers and thinking creatively are essential for both classroom instruction and scientific research.

To succeed in this role, instructors need deep knowledge of education, training, the English language, mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, and geography. Their day-to-day tasks involve processing, documenting, and recording information while continuously updating their own knowledge. This profession attracts individuals with a strong social interest who enjoy helping others learn. Key work styles for these teachers include intellectual curiosity, dependability, achievement orientation, cooperation, and attention to detail.

Entering this academic field typically requires extensive preparation, with most professionals holding a doctoral or professional degree. A graduate degree, such as a master's or PhD, is generally necessary to secure a position.

Students preparing for this career often major in geological and earth sciences, geosciences, astronomy and astrophysics, atmospheric sciences and meteorology, environmental geosciences, climate science, earth systems science, physics and astronomy, or teacher education in specific subject areas. While not universally required, some professionals in this field seek credentials such as the Certified Environmental Scientist designation from the National Registry of Environmental Professionals or the LIUNA Instructor Certification.

In 2025, the median annual pay for these postsecondary teachers was $103,170. Earnings vary based on experience and institution, with the lowest 10% earning less than $59,700 and the highest 10% earning more than $203,190.

There are 9,900 people employed in this field. Between 2025 and 2035, employment is projected to grow by 2.4%, which is as fast as the average for all occupations. This growth and normal turnover are expected to result in approximately 800 job openings each year.