Business Professor

Business Instructor, Business Professor, Instructor, Professor
Job Description

A Business Professor is an academic professional who teaches students in higher education about various aspects of business, including management, marketing, finance, and economics. They engage in teaching, research, and publishing in their field of expertise.

Typical Preparation

Education: Doctoral or professional degree

Years in related career: None

On-the-job training: None

Outlook

Projected Growth: 6.9% (far above average)

Annual job openings: 8 100

Direct AI exposure: 18% of tasks

Potential AI exposure: 66% of tasks

Income data is from Employment and Social Development Canada's 2025 wage tables. The closest match for this career in Canada’s occupational classification system is College and Other Vocational Instructors. According to the wage tables, average income is $94K per year.
Bottom 10%Bottom 25%Median (average)Top 25%Top 10%
$50K
per year
$68K
per year
$94K
per year
$113K
per year
$153K
per year
Compared to other careers: Median is $29K above the national average.

What does a Business Professor do?

Intro video

(less than 2 minutes)

Duties

  • Develops and delivers lectures and coursework in business-related subjects.
  • Conducts and publishes research in academic journals.
  • Advises and mentors students on academic and career goals.
  • Participates in faculty committees and contributes to the academic community.
  • Stays up to date on current trends and developments in the business world.

Work environment

Business Professors typically work in colleges and universities, which includes both public and private institutions. Their work environment involves classrooms, offices for research and administrative tasks, and sometimes online platforms for virtual teaching. They may also attend conferences and seminars.

Typical Schedule

Areas of specialization

  • Finance: Focusing on teaching and research in corporate finance, investments, and financial markets.
  • Marketing: Specializing in areas like consumer behavior, digital marketing, or market research.
  • Management: Concentrating on organizational behavior, leadership, and strategic management.
  • International Business: Focusing on global business strategies, international marketing, and cross-cultural management.
  • Entrepreneurship: Teaching about new venture creation, innovation, and small business management.

Description

Business Professors play a crucial role in shaping future business leaders and thinkers. They must possess a deep understanding of their subject area, coupled with the ability to effectively communicate complex concepts to students. Their role extends beyond teaching, as they are often involved in groundbreaking research, contributing new knowledge to the field of business. This research not only enhances their teaching but also keeps them at the forefront of business trends and theories. The career of a Business Professor is marked by a blend of intellectual challenge and creativity. It involves designing engaging courses, assessing student progress, and continually adapting teaching methods to meet educational needs. Professors often work autonomously, which allows for flexibility in research interests and teaching approach. Being a Business Professor can be highly rewarding, as it offers the opportunity to influence and inspire the next generation of business professionals. It also provides a platform for lifelong learning and intellectual growth, with the chance to delve into research and explore new areas of the business world.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

You might make a good Business Professor if you are...

Pros:

  • Intellectual stimulation and continuous learning opportunities.
  • Autonomy in research and teaching approach.
  • Opportunity to make a significant impact in the field of business education.

Cons:

  • The lengthy and competitive process to achieve tenure.
  • Pressure to publish research and maintain academic standing.
  • Balancing teaching, research, and administrative responsibilities can be challenging.

How to become a Business Professor

Typical education

Becoming a Business Professor generally requires a Ph.D. in Business or a related field, which can take an additional 4-7 years after completing a bachelor's degree. Some positions, especially at community colleges, may accept a master's degree.

High school preparation

Courses:

  • Business courses to gain foundational knowledge.
  • Mathematics and economics for analytical skills.
  • English and communication courses to develop writing and presentation skills.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

  • Participate in business clubs or competitions like DECA.
  • Take leadership roles in student organizations.
  • Volunteer or intern in business-related settings.

Preparation after high school

  • Pursue a bachelor's degree in business or a related field.
  • Gain experience through internships or part-time jobs in business settings.
  • Earn a master's degree and a Ph.D. in Business or a related field, focusing on your area of interest.
  • Engage in research projects and look for opportunities to publish your work.
  • Gain teaching experience through graduate assistantships or as a lecturer.

More resources

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