Physics Teachers, Postsecondary
Educational Instruction and Library
Day to day work centers on lectures covering topics such as quantum mechanics, particle physics, and optics, plus the syllabi, homework, and exams that go with them. Students' laboratory work, papers, and class assignments are graded, and regularly scheduled office hours are kept so students can get advice. Many also supervise undergraduate or graduate teaching, internships, and research, and keep attendance and grade records. Classroom discussions need to be started and guided. Suits people who like explaining difficult scientific ideas, working through problems with students, and balancing teaching with research.
Typical education: Doctoral Degree (Ph.D., Ed.D.)
Annual Median Wage in Field (2025)
$100'310
Median Wage Market Position
$100'310
What you might do
- Lecture on quantum mechanics and particle physics
- Write physics syllabi, homework, and handouts
- Grade lab work, papers, and assignments
- Write and score physics course exams
- Hold office hours to help students
- Supervise student teaching and research work
Skills that matter
- Teaching quantum mechanics and particle physics
- Meeting students during scheduled office hours
- Compiling and grading physics examinations
- Working through physics problems with students
- Moderating discussions of matter and energy
- Guiding student teaching and internships
AI & the future of this role
Problem sets and conceptual lectures might be assisted by automated tools, yet lab demonstrations, research mentorship, and nuanced assessment still tend to need faculty judgment. Computational and experimental training may keep some roles relatively steadier.
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Includes O*NET® 30.3 Database information by USDOL/ETA under CC BY 4.0; modified by LostInCareer. Wage/outlook from BLS. Attribution details