College Math Professor information
See California salary details
$60.3K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$54K - $61.1K
13% of jobs
The median wage is $67K / yr.
$61.1K - $68.1K
28% of jobs
$68.1K - $75.2K
7% of jobs
$75.2K - $82.3K
1% of jobs
$88.5K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$82.3K - $89.4K
14% of jobs
$89.4K - $96.5K
8% of jobs
$96.5K - $103.6K
6% of jobs
$103.6K - $110.7K
2% of jobs
$110.7K - $117.8K
0% of jobs
$117.8K - $124.8K
6% of jobs
How much do college math professor jobs pay per year?
As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for college math professor in California is $77,820.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,200.00 and $90,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.
A College Math Professor is responsible for teaching mathematics courses at the college or university level. They design and deliver lectures, develop assignments and exams, and guide students in understanding mathematical concepts. In addition to teaching, they often conduct research in their area of expertise and may publish scholarly articles. Professors also advise students, participate in departmental meetings, and contribute to curriculum development. Their role is essential in fostering students' analytical and problem-solving skills.
To thrive as a College Math Professor, you need a deep understanding of mathematical concepts, a graduate degree in mathematics or a related field (often a Ph.D.), and experience in teaching or research. Familiarity with learning management systems (LMS), mathematical software like MATLAB or Mathematica, and educational technology is commonly required. Exceptional communication, patience, and the ability to inspire and engage students are crucial soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities ensure effective instruction, foster student learning, and contribute to academic excellence within the institution.
College math professors often encounter challenges such as engaging students with diverse mathematical backgrounds, managing large class sizes, and keeping up with evolving curriculum standards. To address these challenges, professors frequently employ active learning techniques, integrate technology into lessons, and provide additional support through office hours or tutoring sessions. Collaborating with colleagues and participating in professional development workshops also helps professors stay current and share effective teaching strategies.
College math professors are generally in steady demand due to ongoing needs for higher education instructors and increasing enrollment in STEM fields. Employment opportunities often depend on academic qualifications, research experience, and the ability to teach a range of math courses, with some regions experiencing higher demand than others.
To become a college math professor, one typically needs at least a master's degree in mathematics or a related field, though many institutions prefer candidates with a Ph.D. in mathematics or a closely related discipline. Relevant teaching experience, strong research credentials, and proficiency with academic tools like LaTeX are also important for securing a faculty position.
The average salary for a college math professor varies by experience, institution, and location, but typically ranges from $60,000 to $120,000 annually. Professors with tenure, advanced degrees, and research responsibilities tend to earn higher salaries, and many also receive benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.
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