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Philosophy Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Adjunct - Philosophy Instructor

Baytown, TX · On-site

$34.03 - $51.04/hr

Teach freshman and sophomore-level Philosophy courses. * Qualified applicants must be committed to student learning, integrating technology into the curriculum, and encouraging engaged scholars.

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Philosophy Instructor information

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$42K

$87.9K

$123.5K

How much do philosophy instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for philosophy instructor in the United States is $87,882.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,500.00 and $113,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Philosophy Instructor do?

A Philosophy Instructor teaches courses in philosophy, which is the study of fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, values, reason, and ethics. They develop lesson plans, deliver lectures, lead classroom discussions, and assess student performance through exams, essays, and presentations. Philosophy Instructors also encourage critical thinking and help students analyze complex ideas logically. Many also conduct research, write academic papers, and participate in departmental activities.

What Does a Philosophy Instructor Do?

The job of a philosophy instructor is to teach lessons to students, often at a college or university. Common duties include creating and grading assignments. Other responsibilities of a philosophy instructor are to look for students in their classes that may need extra help. Some schools emphasize a particular approach to philosophy and may ask instructors to focus on specific schools of thought during lessons. The qualifications to become a philosophy instructor typically include a master's degree.

Are philosophers in high demand?

Philosophers, including philosophy instructors, typically face limited demand in the job market, with many positions available in academia, research, and education. Employment opportunities often depend on advanced degrees, research experience, and institutional needs, and competition can be high for tenure-track roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Philosophy Instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Philosophy Instructor, you typically need an advanced degree in philosophy (often a master's or Ph.D.), strong analytical skills, and a deep understanding of philosophical theories and history. Familiarity with learning management systems (LMS) like Canvas or Blackboard, and experience with digital research databases, is often expected. Exceptional communication, critical thinking, and the ability to foster open dialogue are crucial soft skills for engaging students and promoting intellectual growth. These skills and qualities ensure effective teaching, stimulate thoughtful discussion, and support student success in complex subject matter.

What are the typical challenges a Philosophy Instructor faces when engaging students with complex philosophical concepts?

Philosophy Instructors often encounter the challenge of making abstract and complex philosophical theories accessible and engaging for students from diverse backgrounds. Encouraging critical thinking and open discussion, while ensuring that everyone feels comfortable sharing their perspectives, can require careful facilitation. Additionally, instructors may need to balance covering required curriculum with fostering deep, meaningful dialogue. Success in this role frequently depends on creativity in teaching methods and adaptability to different learning styles.

How do I become a philosophy teacher?

To become a philosophy instructor, typically a master's degree or higher in philosophy or a related field is required, along with strong critical thinking and communication skills. Teaching experience and familiarity with curriculum development can also be beneficial, and some positions may require certification or a teaching credential depending on the educational level and institution.

What is the difference between Philosophy Instructor vs Philosophy Professor?

AspectPhilosophy InstructorPhilosophy Professor
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree or master's in philosophy; teaching certification often preferredDoctorate (Ph.D.) in philosophy; extensive research and publication experience
Work EnvironmentCommunity colleges, online platforms, or adult education programsUniversities and research institutions
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions offering undergraduate coursesHigher education institutions with research and teaching roles
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding teaching roles at different education levelsAcademic career progression and research focus

While both roles involve teaching philosophy, a Philosophy Instructor typically holds a bachelor's or master's degree and teaches at community colleges or online platforms. A Philosophy Professor usually has a Ph.D. and works at universities, engaging in research and higher-level instruction. The main difference lies in educational requirements, work environment, and career focus.

What is the highest paying philosophy job?

The highest paying philosophy-related roles typically include university tenured professors, especially those in prestigious institutions or with administrative responsibilities, and philosophy consultants or analysts in corporate or government sectors. These positions often require advanced degrees, research, and specialized expertise, with salaries varying based on experience and location.

Are philosophy teachers in demand?

The demand for philosophy teachers varies by region and educational level, with higher demand typically in colleges and universities that value critical thinking and ethics. Employment opportunities depend on factors such as academic qualifications, experience, and institutional needs, and competition can be high for tenure-track positions. Overall, philosophy teaching positions are available but may be limited compared to other disciplines.
What cities are hiring for Philosophy Instructor jobs? Cities with the most Philosophy Instructor job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Philosophy Instructor jobs? The most popular types of Philosophy Instructor jobs are:
What states have the most Philosophy Instructor jobs? States with the most job openings for Philosophy Instructor jobs include:
Adjunct Philosophy Instructor

Adjunct Philosophy Instructor

Muskegon Community College

Muskegon, MI • On-site

Part-time

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

Job Description
Muskegon Community College, an associate degree-granting institution of higher education, is a center for lifelong learning which provides a person the opportunity to attain their educational goals by offering programs that respond to individual, community, and global needs. We are seeking qualified candidates for Adjunct Instructors. Please attach unofficial transcripts when applying.
Muskegon Community College is specifically looking for qualified adjunct instructors for the following courses:
Phil 101 class to be held in-person in Fremont, MI on Tuesday and Thursday from 8:30am-9:55am
Phil 101 class to be held in-person in Grand Haven, MI on Monday and Wednesday from 10:00am-11:25am
Various ongoing opportunities for teaching at the Muskegon Campus
Required Skills
Master's Degree in discipline or 18 credits in the specific discipline. Prefer teaching experience at the college level. Demonstrated ability to work with various populations representing a wide range of abilities, ages, nationalities and cultures. Experience with instructional technology preferred.
Responsible for instruction and facilitating student learning; committed to student recruitment, retention and success; assessment of learning, development of curriculum and use of instructional delivery modes utilizing both traditional and non-traditional methodology.
  1. Teach assigned course which may include day, night, and online courses, as well as at the main campus and extension centers. Classes are to meet on time for the full allotted time.
  2. Establish and promote an effective learning environment that maximize documented student learning.
  3. Prepare, submit and maintain reports related to student learning.
  4. Grading assignments in a meaningful way to promote continued student growth, returning graded assignments to students in a timely manner, and assigning final grades for all students, meeting or beating all institutional deadlines for completion.
  5. Provide educational assistance to students during regularly scheduled and posted times (i.e., office hours) or by appointment.
  6. Encourage student opinion survey completion for each class and then reviewed after summary information available to assist with increasing student success.
  7. Maintain levels of professional knowledge and expertise, including compliance training or hour.
  8. Perform other duties as assigned.

Physical, Mental, and Environment Requirements Include:
Mental Demands:
Detailed Work ☒ Student Contact
☒ Deadline oriented ☒ Problem Situations
☒ Multiple Priorities & Demands ☒ Emergency Situations
☒ Confidentiality ☐ On-call Availability
☒ Continual Interruptions ☒ Working Alone
☒ Faculty Contact ☒ Working with Others
Physical Demands:
☐ Standing & Walking ☒ Sitting
☒ Carrying
☐ Lifting up to 10 lbs. ☒ Up to 25 lbs. ☐ Up to 50 lbs. ☐ 80 + lbs.
☐ Pushing, Pulling, Twisting, Bending ☐ Climb or Balance
☐ Stoop, Kneel, Crouch, or Crawl ☐ Squatting
☐ Handle or Feel ☐ Reach with Hands and Arms
☒ Talking or hearing ☐ Tasting/Smelling
☐ Working Overhead ☒ Speak in English via Phone or In Person
☒ Close, Distance, Peripheral, and Color Vision along with Depth Perceptions
☒ Ability to Adjust and Focus
Work Environment:
☐ Exposure to wet, humid conditions (non-weather), fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals; extreme heat/cold; and moderate to loud noise levels.
☒ Normal Office environment with little, if, any, discomfort due to heat, dust, noise and the like. Ability to travel to all campus locations required.
Muskegon Community College is an equal opportunity employer. MCC does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, transgender status, political persuasion, disability, height, weight, veteran status, age or any other protected class in any of its educational programs, activities or employment. Minorities, women, veterans, and the physically challenged are encouraged to apply. To the extent required by applicable law, anyone with a disability will be reasonably accommodated by the College. If you have a disability and need an accommodation or assistance in applying for this position, please contact the Human Resources Office.