Philosophy and Religion Teachers, Postsecondary
Teach courses in philosophy, religion, and theology. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
SOC: 25-1126.00
Common Job Titles
Assistant ProfessorPhilosophy ProfessorProfessorReligion Professor
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- KnowledgeEvaluate philosophical arguments and theological doctrines across diverse intellectual traditions in postsecondary academic settings, applying critical reasoning and historical context.Advanced
- KnowledgeSynthesize complex philosophical concepts and religious theories into coherent course curricula independently, integrating primary texts and contemporary scholarship.Advanced
- KnowledgeAnalyze primary philosophical texts and theological writings in original or translated languages for research publications and classroom instruction, applying hermeneutical methods.Advanced
- KnowledgeCreate original scholarly research contributing to philosophy or religious studies disciplines independently, engaging with peer-reviewed literature and presenting at academic conferences.Advanced
- MindsetModel intellectual humility and ethical reasoning in academic discourse when mentoring graduate students and engaging with interdisciplinary colleagues.Advanced
- KnowledgeInterpret historical and contemporary debates in ethics, metaphysics, epistemology, and theology for undergraduate and graduate audiences, clarifying technical terminology and conceptual frameworks.Advanced
- MindsetIntegrate pedagogical strategies with student learning needs when facilitating class discussions on controversial ethical and theological issues.Proficient
- KnowledgeAssess student comprehension of abstract philosophical concepts and religious traditions through diverse evaluation methods including essays, oral presentations, and Socratic dialogue.Proficient
- KnowledgeDesign learning activities that foster critical thinking and ethical reflection using learning management systems and multimedia presentation tools to enhance engagement.Proficient
- MindsetBalance academic freedom with institutional responsibilities and diverse student perspectives when addressing sensitive religious and philosophical topics in pluralistic classroom environments.Proficient
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Philosophy and Religion Teachers, Postsecondary (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
20,840
Wage Distribution by Percentile
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $47,550 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $134,910 |
| Workers on average earn | $88,210 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Philosophy and Theology4.8/5
- English Language4.6/5
- Education and Training4.2/5
- History and Archeology3.5/5
- Sociology and Anthropology3.1/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
Google DocsMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft OutlookMicrosoft PowerPointMicrosoft Word
Technology Skills
Blackboard LearnCalendar and scheduling softwareCollaborative editing softwareCourse management system softwareDOC CopDesire2Learn LMS softwareEmail softwareGateway to Logic
Tools & Equipment
Carousel slide projectorsCompact digital camerasCompact disk CD playersComputer data input scannersComputer laser printersComputer projectorsConference telephonesDesktop computers