Postsecondary Economics Teachers
Economics teachers at colleges and universities help students understand how money, markets, and economies work by teaching courses like microeconomics, macroeconomics, and economic theory. They create lesson plans, grade assignments and exams, advise students on their academic paths, and often conduct research that gets published in academic journals. These professors use modern technology to teach both in-person and online classes, collaborating with other faculty to develop cutting-edge curriculum. Most economics teachers need a master's or doctoral degree in economics and enjoy both teaching and researching economic trends that affect our daily lives.
Did you know?
The market for tenure-track economics professor positions is extremely competitive, with many qualified PhD graduates competing for limited openings at universities across the United States.
At a glance
Typical average pay
$111,500 Avg/yr
Growth
Stable
Top skill
Speaking
Things to consider
Research Publication Requirements
Success in this field requires consistent publication in peer-reviewed economics journals, as research output is a primary factor in hiring, tenure, and promotion decisions.
Tenure-Track vs. Adjunct Position Disparity
There is a significant difference in job security, benefits, and career prospects between tenure-track faculty positions and adjunct or visiting lecturer roles in American higher education.
Key responsibilities
Compile bibliographies of specialized materials for outside reading assignments.
Advise students on academic and vocational curricula and on career issues.
Prepare and deliver lectures to undergraduate or graduate students on topics such as econometrics, price theory, and macroeconomics.
Supervise undergraduate or graduate teaching, internship, and research work.
Select and obtain materials and supplies, such as textbooks.