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$42K

$87.9K

$123.5K

How much do philosophy instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 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.

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 is the salary of a philosophy professor?

The salary of a philosophy professor varies depending on the institution, experience, and location, but typically ranges from $50,000 to over $150,000 annually. Professors with tenure and advanced degrees tend to earn higher salaries, and many also receive benefits such as research funding and sabbaticals.

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 Ph.D. in philosophy or a related field is required, along with strong critical thinking and communication skills. Teaching experience, familiarity with curriculum development, and sometimes certification or licensure are also beneficial, especially for K-12 education; higher education roles often require advanced degrees and research experience.

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 jobs typically include roles such as ethicists, philosophy professors at prestigious universities, or corporate consultants specializing in ethics and compliance, with salaries often exceeding $100,000 annually. Senior academic positions, industry leadership roles, and consulting in specialized fields tend to offer the highest compensation for philosophy professionals.

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 humanities education. Employment opportunities depend on factors such as academic qualifications, experience, and institutional funding, with competition often high for tenure-track positions. Skills in research, curriculum development, and student engagement are important for success in this field.
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Philosophy Instructor jobs near you

Part-Time Philosophy Instructor (Pool)

West Valley-Mission CCD

Saratoga, CA

$36K - $52K/yr

Part-time

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Position Information
Position Title Part-Time Philosophy Instructor (Pool) Position ID Campus Mission College
Position Summary Information
Definition
PART-TIME, ASSOCIATE FACULTY POOL
Applications for Part-Time, Associate Faculty pools are continually accepted (unless otherwise specified) by the District and will be added to the application pool for review by hiring authorities on an as-needed basis. Should you be invited for an interview, you will be contacted by a District representative.
Assignment
This position is a part-time position as an Associate Instructor. The teaching assignment may require teaching lecture-discussion courses during day, evening or on Saturday and/or in an on-line/distance education format. The assignments are as needed, during Spring, Summer, and/or Fall semesters. This position is represented by the West Valley-Mission Federation of Teachers (WVMFT), AFT 6554.
Work location: Mission College, Santa Clara, CA
Salary and Benefits
Salary is based on a percentage of workload, up to a maximum of 67% of a full-time load. Salary is prorated based on an initial hiring salary range of $36,191 - $52,297 per semester; and is based on academic achievement, teaching and related experience.
Minimum Qualifications
1. Education
  • Master's Degree in philosophy; OR
  • Bachelor's Degree in philosophy AND Masters Degree in humanities or religious studies; OR
  • The equivalent of the above

AND
2. Demonstrated ability to effectively teach, counsel or work with persons of diverse socioeconomic, cultural, disability and ethnic backgrounds.
Desired Qualifications
n/a
Examples of Duties and Responsibilities
Instructional duties and assignments may consist of one or more of the following:
  • Provide instruction for assigned courses. This includes preparation for in-class or on-line/distance education activities, evaluation of students' work, consultation with students outside of class and/or on-line, maintenance of currency in the subjects taught.
  • Maintain accurate class and other records required by the college.
  • Submit, when due, attendance rosters and grade reports.
  • Follow course outlines as filed in the instruction offices.
  • Maintain office hours each week, at .5 hours per week per section.
  • Observe, support and enforce the regulations, policies and programs of the District and college.
  • Provide each student with a written course syllabus at the beginning of the course, as per instructions in the Faculty Handbook.
  • Refer students to appropriate college sources for information on counseling and other student services.
  • Assist students by providing advice on requirements for successful achievement in the members' area of expertise.
  • Work cooperatively within the college community.
  • Foster an environment that protects academic freedom within the college community.
  • Foster a positive working environment that is free from harassment, prejudice and/or bias.
  • Demonstrate a respect for the dignity of each individual.
Other Duties Application Information
APPLICATION INFORMATION: 
  • Interested applicants must submit online all materials requested, including: 
    • (1) A completed online West Valley-Mission Community College District application; 
    • (2) Resume; 
    • (3) Unofficial copies of transcripts; 
    • (4) District Equivalency Application, if applicable; and 
    • (5) Any requested licenses or certificates, if applicable. 
  • All sections of the online application, including Education and Educational Work History, must be completed thoroughly. 
  • Supervisor(s) name(s) and telephone numbers must be included in the application. 
  • Incomplete applications will not be considered. 
  • Do NOT send unrequested materials. Unrequested materials will be removed from your application and will not be used for consideration of employment. 
  • The employment application and supporting documents represent you; it is to your advantage to fill out the application form carefully and completely.

ABOUT TRANSCRIPTS: 
  • If a minimum requirement is possession of a degree, then a copy of transcripts is required to be included with your application to verify the degree being awarded. If no transcripts are included or the transcript does not show a degree conferred AND degree conferred date, the application may be screened as not meeting minimum requirements. 
  • Degrees must have been awarded by a college or university accredited by an accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Council on Post-Secondary Accreditation and/or the U.S. Department of Education. 
  • Candidates with degrees earned outside of the United States must provide official certification of equivalency to U. S. degrees by a certified U. S. credential review service, must have a U.S. evaluation (course by course of the transcripts) and must be submitted with this online application. 
  • If you do not have an electronic version of the transcript, you can get it scanned at an office supply or copy store, then attach the electronic version of your transcript to this online application. 
  • Copies of diplomas, grade reports, graduation petitions, transcript evaluations requests, or similar documents WILL NOT be accepted in lieu of transcripts. 
  • When uploading transcripts, please ensure they are NOT encrypted, secured, or password-protected or they will be rejected by the system.
 
EQUIVALENCY INFORMATION: Applicants applying under equivalency bear the responsibility of submitting the District's Equivalency Application form with details and evidence of the factors (academic preparation and/or experience) that they believe to be equivalent of the required qualifications for this position. Application(s) for equivalency are required if degrees are not in exact discipline required.
The Equivalency Application is included in the online application as an OPTIONAL form to complete. 
  • ONLY complete the Request for Equivalency application if degree does not match discipline(s) stated in the Minimum Qualifications. 
  • List accurately and completely the courses taken that match requirements of the required degree. 
  • Do NOT attach documents such as course evaluations. 
 
For reasonable accommodations and assistance, contact: 
Office of Human Resources, Attn: Recruitment 
14000 Fruitvale Ave, Saratoga, CA 95070 
Phone: (408) 741-2174 Fax: (408) 741-2564 
Email: Jobs@wvm.edu  
Selection Process
SELECTION PROCESS INFORMATION:
  • Applications will be screened by appropriate department representatives on an as-needed basis. Qualified applicants who best meet the needs of the division will be contacted for an interview.
  • Travel expenses to attend the interview are the responsibility of the candidate.  
  • Applications will remain in our online system for 1 year. Each year, part-time pools will be refreshed and applicants will be notified of the opportunity to re-submit application.
  • Application materials become the property of the District and will not be returned or duplicated. 
  • The district reserves the right to contact former, current, the most recent employers, and others to investigate past employment records of applicants.
  • Upon hire the successful candidate must provide the required documents of identity and authorization to work and attest he/she is authorized to work in the United States. 
  • Prior to employment, the selected candidate must submit official transcripts.
  • The district does not provide visa sponsorship.

EEO STATEMENT:
West Valley-Mission Community College District is an Equal Opportunity Employer that seeks to employ a diverse workforce who will contribute to an inclusive and welcoming educational and employment environment. The District is committed to nondiscrimination on the basis of ethnic group identification, race, color, national origin, religion, age, sex, physical disability, mental disability, ancestry, sexual orientation, language, accent, citizenship status, transgender status, parental status, marital status, economic status, veteran status, and medical condition consistent with applicable federal and state laws.
Special Instructions to the Applicant
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number FY22/23-010POOL Open Date 05/28/2025 Close Date Open Until Filled No

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