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$42.5K

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How much do university professor jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for university professor in the United States is $80,057.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,000.00 and $91,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are University Professors?

University Professors are academic professionals who teach courses, conduct research, and contribute to the intellectual life of a college or university. They are responsible for designing curriculum, mentoring students, publishing scholarly work, and often participating in service to their institution and academic community. Professors may specialize in a particular field and can work towards tenure, which provides job security and academic freedom. Their roles may also include advising students, leading research projects, and engaging with the broader public through outreach or consultation.

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

To thrive as a University Professor, you need advanced subject matter expertise, a doctoral degree in your discipline, and a strong record of research and publication. Familiarity with learning management systems (e.g., Canvas, Blackboard), research databases, and presentation software is commonly required. Exceptional communication, mentorship, and organizational skills help professors engage students and collaborate with colleagues. These skills are essential for fostering academic excellence, advancing research, and contributing to the university community.

What is the difference between University Professor vs College Instructor?

AspectUniversity ProfessorCollege Instructor
Required CredentialsDoctorate degree often required, PhD preferredBachelor's or Master's degree typically sufficient
Work EnvironmentResearch and teaching at universities, often involved in academic researchTeaching primarily in classroom settings at colleges or community colleges
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, higher education institutionsColleges, community colleges, technical schools
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding academic roles, career paths in higher educationExploring teaching careers at college level

The main difference between a University Professor and a College Instructor lies in their educational requirements, work environment, and employer settings. University Professors typically hold a doctorate and engage in both teaching and research at universities, while College Instructors usually have a bachelor's or master's degree and focus primarily on classroom teaching at colleges or community colleges. Both roles are integral to higher education but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

How do university professors typically balance teaching, research, and administrative responsibilities?

University professors often juggle multiple responsibilities, including teaching courses, conducting research, and participating in departmental or university committees. Balancing these areas can be challenging, especially during peak times such as grading periods or grant deadlines. Most institutions provide some flexibility, allowing professors to adjust their focus based on career stage and departmental needs. Collaborating with colleagues and graduate students is also common, which can help manage research projects and administrative tasks more efficiently.

What is the highest paying professor job?

The highest paying professor roles are typically at research-intensive universities or in specialized fields such as medicine, law, or business. Full professors with tenure and significant research achievements often earn the highest salaries, which can exceed $200,000 annually depending on the institution and location.

Is it hard to get hired as a professor?

Getting hired as a university professor can be competitive, often requiring a strong academic record, relevant research, teaching experience, and advanced degrees such as a Ph.D. The hiring process typically involves multiple interviews, peer reviews, and a demonstration of expertise in the subject area.

How to get a job as a professor at a university?

To become a university professor, candidates typically need a doctoral degree in their field, relevant research experience, and a strong publication record. Academic positions often require applying through university job boards, participating in interviews, and demonstrating teaching and research skills. Building a professional network and gaining teaching experience can also improve chances of securing a faculty position.

Is there a demand for professors?

The demand for university professors varies by field and region but generally remains steady due to ongoing needs for higher education and research. Growth is expected in STEM, healthcare, and technology disciplines, often requiring advanced degrees and research experience. Job prospects can be influenced by institutional funding, student enrollment, and academic specialization.
More about University Professor jobs
What cities are hiring for University Professor jobs? Cities with the most University Professor job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of University Professor jobs? The most popular types of University Professor jobs are:
What states have the most University Professor jobs? States with the most job openings for University Professor jobs include:
University Professor jobs near you
Infographic showing various University Professor job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 16% Full Time, 74% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,057 per year, or $38.5 per hour.
Open Rank- Assistant Professor, Associate Professor, Professor

Open Rank- Assistant Professor, Associate Professor, Professor

University of Colorado

Aurora, CO • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago

University Of Colorado rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

150th of 536 rated colleges and universities

Job description

University of Colorado Anschutz

Department: Cardiology

Job Title: Open Rank- Assistant Professor, Associate Professor, Professor

Position #:00846651 - Requisition #: 39662

Job Summary:

The University of Colorado School of Medicine's Division of Cardiology has an immediate opening for a cardiologist specializing in Women's Health and Cardiovascular Prevention to join our team as a physician-scientist. Although this faculty appointment resides in the Division of Cardiology, the chosen candidate will also be integrated with The Ludeman Center for Women's Health Research (Ludeman Center). The incumbent will be expected to be highly integrated within the academic, mentoring, research and innovation portfolio within the Ludemans Center and potentially serve as the leading voice for CV prevention in this group. The position comes with the Bernard W. and Maude E. Ludeman Endowed Chair in Women's Cardiology which is focused on cardiology related to women's health, as well as a significant startup/recruitment package that will provide financial support for academic activities. This position will involve a range of clinical, research, and teaching responsibilities split between the flagship University of Colorado Hospital and The Ludeman Center on the CU Anschutz Medical Campus.

This is a terrific opportunity to join the region's only comprehensive academic cardiology division dedicated to providing exceptional, cutting-edge Women's cardiovascular prevention and treatment of patients in the Denver Metro region, Colorado, and surrounding states. In addition, as the only academic medical center in the state of Colorado, the clinical, educational and research capacity and depth of the institution provide excellent opportunities for a physician scientist.

Key Responsibilities:

         50-80% patient care split between ICU/inpatient rounding and consults, clinic, and ancillary cardiology services (eg echocardiography) at the University of Colorado Hospital and its Heart and Vascular Center.

         20-50% academic work, including investigation, education, and administration within CU Anschutz medical center, including the Ludeman Center for Women's Health Research, the Division of Cardiology, as well as opportunities with the CPC, ACCORDS, CVI, and other centers.

Work Location:

Onsite - this role is expected to work onsite and is located in Aurora, CO.

Why Join Us:

We are the only full-service cardiology practice in Colorado, we practice out of the largest hospital in Colorado, and we are the only Division of Cardiology servicing an allopathic medical school for a 500-mile radius. Our mission is to provide the highest quality clinical care across the full spectrum of cardiovascular offerings, conduct cutting-edge research that improves our understanding of cardiovascular science and innovates care delivery, and train cardiovascular clinicians and researchers for future generations. We place a high level of importance on achieving and maintaining a diverse environment that fosters excellence and rewarding opportunities. 

Why work for the University?

We have AMAZING benefits and offer exceptional amounts of holiday, vacation and sick leave! The University of Colorado offers an excellent benefits package including:

  • Medical: Multiple plan options
  • Dental: Multiple plan options
  • Additional Insurance: Disability, Life, Vision
  • Retirement 401(a) Plan: Employer contributes 10% of your gross pay
  • Paid Time Off: Accruals over the year (based on percentage of time)
  • Vacation Days: 22/year (maximum accrual 352 hours)
  • Sick Days: 15/year (unlimited maximum accrual)
  • Holiday Days: 11/year
  • Tuition Benefit: Employees have access to this benefit on all CU campuses
  • ECO Pass: Reduced rate RTD Bus and light rail service

There are many additional perks & programs with the CU Advantage.

Qualifications:

Minimum Qualifications:

Applicants must meet minimum qualifications at the time of hire.

This is an open rank position and could be categorized as Assistant Professor, Associate Professor or Professor based on experience and qualifications as indicated below:

Assistant Professor:

         MD/DO

         Board eligible/certified in Cardiovascular Medicine by ABIM

Associate Professor:

         MD/DO

         Board eligible/certified in Cardiovascular Medicine by ABIM

         4 years experience

Professor:

         MD/DO

         Board eligible/certified in Cardiovascular Medicine by ABIM

         6 years experience

Preferred Qualifications:

         Articulate a vision for the future of academic and community cardiovascular care in the Colorado region, particularly for Women's Cardiovascular Prevention.

         Demonstrate a proven track record of research relating to Women's Health.

         Show excellence in teaching and mentorship.

How to Apply:

For full consideration, please submit the following document(s):

1.    A letter of interest describing relevant job experiences as they relate to listed job qualifications and interest in the position

2.    Curriculum vitae / Resume

3.    Five professional references including name, address, phone number (mobile number if appropriate), and email address

Applications are accepted electronically ONLY at www.cu.edu/cu-careers.

Questions should be directed to: Bobby Pinter, bobby.pinter@cuanschutz.edu

Screening of Applications Begins:

Applications will be accepted until finalists are identified, but preference will be given to complete applications received by June 1, 2026. Those who do not apply by this date may or may not be considered.

Anticipated Pay Range:

The starting salary range (or hiring range) for this position has been established as HIRING RANGE:

Assistant Professor: $395,000 to $465,000 

Associate Professor: $420,000 to $475,000 

Professor: $437,000 to $500,000

The above salary range (or hiring range) represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. This position is not eligible for overtime compensation unless it is non-exempt.

Your total compensation goes beyond the number on your paycheck. The University of Colorado provides generous leave, health plans and retirement contributions that add to your bottom line.

Total Compensation Calculator: http://www.cu.edu/node/153125

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:

The University of Colorado (CU) is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

ADA Statement:

The University will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities throughout the employment application process. To request an accommodation pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, please contact the Human Resources ADA Coordinator at hr.adacoordinator@ucdenver.edu.

Background Check Statement:

The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus is dedicated to ensuring a safe and secure environment for our faculty, staff, students and visitors. To assist in achieving that goal, we conduct background investigations for all prospective employees.

Vaccination Statement:

CU Anschutz strongly encourages vaccination against the COVID-19 virus and other vaccine preventable diseases. If you work, visit, or volunteer in healthcare facilities or clinics operated by our affiliated hospital or clinical partners or by CU Anschutz, you will be required to comply with the vaccination and medical surveillance policies of the facilities or clinics where you work, visit, or volunteer, respectively. In addition, if you work in certain research areas or perform certain safety sensitive job duties, you must enroll in the occupational health medical surveillance program.

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