Explore Careers

Professors and Instructors

Education & Training

Service Branches

  • Army logo
  • Marines logo
  • navy logo
  • Air Force logo
  • Space Force logo

Work Environment

Professors and instructors usually work in classrooms and lecture halls.

  • Military Status

    Officer

  • Median Military Salary This is the median, or the midpoint, of the salary range for this career.

    $83,617

    Military Salary Range Salary varies based on years of service, degree level, special pays, family status and location.

    $42,132 - $266,140

Overview

The work of a professor and instructor is multi-faceted. Professors and instructors are tasked with the design and delivery of instruction in the classroom. They spend their time teaching, conducting research, and supporting their students in a variety of academic and vocational subjects related to their military occupations. Some specialize by functional area, such as military-specific/tactical.

Military Training

Officers typically enter the Military after they have completed a four-year college degree; enlisted service members can transition to officer positions through a variety of pathways and earn a degree while serving. Professors and instructors are subject matter experts in their field. Job training for professors and instructors primarily consists of on-the-job learning in various training environments and through receiving advanced civilian/industry certifications and licenses (credentials) which may require additional education training or experience. Like other officers they complete a comprehensive training program covering responsibilities military structure and etiquette traditions and leadership development.

Helpful Attributes

  • Ability to express ideas clearly and concisely
  • Interest in teaching
  • Preference for working closely with people

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