Math Professor

Instructor, Mathematics Instructor (Math Instructor), Mathematics Professor, Professor
Job Description

A Math Professor is an academic professional who teaches mathematics at the college or university level. They are responsible for instructing students in various mathematical subjects, conducting research, and publishing scholarly papers.

Typical Preparation

Education: Doctoral or professional degree

Years in related career: None

On-the-job training: None

Outlook

Projected Growth: 3.2% (average)

Annual job openings: 4 400

Direct AI exposure: 19% of tasks

Potential AI exposure: 68% 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 Math Professor do?

Intro video

(less than 2 minutes)

Duties

  • Develops and teaches undergraduate and graduate math courses.
  • Conducts original research in mathematics and publishes findings in academic journals.
  • Advises and mentors students on academic and career goals.
  • Participates in academic committees and contributes to the university community.
  • Continually updates knowledge in the field of mathematics.

Work environment

Math Professors work primarily in colleges and universities, both public and private. Their environment includes classrooms, lecture halls, offices, and computer labs. They may also spend time in research facilities and attend academic conferences.

Typical Schedule

Areas of specialization

  • Pure Mathematics: Specializing in theoretical aspects of mathematics such as algebra, calculus, and geometry.
  • Applied Mathematics: Focusing on practical application of mathematical principles in fields like engineering, finance, and technology.
  • Statistics: Concentrating on the theory and methods of collecting, analyzing, interpreting, and presenting empirical data.
  • Mathematical Education: Specializing in the pedagogy and methods of teaching mathematics.

Description

Math Professors play a vital role in higher education, imparting mathematical knowledge and fostering analytical and problem-solving skills among students. They are expected to stay abreast of developments in the field of mathematics and incorporate these into their teaching. Research is a significant part of a Math Professor's career, requiring them to continually contribute to the academic community through publications and presentations. The role of a Math Professor involves more than just teaching; it includes mentoring students, developing curricula, and often participating in administrative and departmental duties. Professors must be able to communicate complex mathematical concepts in an understandable and engaging way. They often have the freedom to explore various topics of interest in their research, which can be highly rewarding. This career offers intellectual stimulation and the opportunity to shape future mathematicians and professionals in related fields. Math Professors have the chance to collaborate with colleagues globally on research projects and academic initiatives.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

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

Pros:

  • Opportunities for intellectual growth and conducting original research.
  • Autonomy in teaching and choosing research topics.
  • Job security, especially in tenured positions.

Cons:

  • The lengthy process and competitive nature of obtaining tenure.
  • Balancing teaching, research, and administrative responsibilities can be challenging.
  • Pressure to publish and contribute to academic scholarship regularly.

How to become a Math Professor

Typical education

Becoming a Math Professor typically requires a Ph.D. in Mathematics, which can take about 5-7 years to complete after earning a bachelor's degree. Some community colleges may hire professors with a master's degree in mathematics.

High school preparation

Courses:

  • Advanced mathematics courses to build a strong foundation in mathematical concepts.
  • Computer science classes to develop computational and programming skills.
  • English and communication courses to enhance writing and presentation abilities.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

  • Participate in math clubs, competitions, and academic Olympiads.
  • Engage in research projects or science fairs with a focus on mathematics.
  • Tutor peers in mathematics to develop teaching skills.

Preparation after high school

  • Pursue a bachelor's degree in mathematics or a related field.
  • Consider participating in research projects or internships during undergraduate studies.
  • Earn a Ph.D. in mathematics, focusing on a specific area of interest.
  • Gain teaching experience through graduate teaching assistantships or similar roles.
  • Stay involved in the mathematical community through conferences and workshops.

More resources

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