Psychology Teachers, Postsecondary: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 41,610 psychology teachers, postsecondarys, and they earn a median of $80,330/year. The range runs from $48K to $159K. California pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level psychology teachers, postsecondarys start around $48K. The gap between that and the median ($80K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $159K, but that's the 90th percentile. Getting there usually takes a decade or more of experience, the right credentials, and being in a high-paying market.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| California | $106K | 5,150 |
| North Dakota | $100K | 60 |
| Maryland | $100K | 660 |
| New York | $99K | 4,120 |
| Connecticut | $98K | 640 |
| Oregon | $96K | 400 |
| Rhode Island | $91K | 170 |
| Michigan | $90K | 1,060 |
| New Jersey | $86K | 1,470 |
| New Hampshire | $85K | 130 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a psychology teachers, postsecondary make?▼
The median psychology teachers, postsecondary salary in the United States is $80,330 per year ($0/hour). Entry-level positions start around $47,870, while experienced professionals earn up to $158,900.
What education do you need to become a psychology teachers, postsecondary?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for psychology teachers, postsecondarys?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for psychology teachers, postsecondarys.
What are the highest paying states for psychology teachers, postsecondarys?▼
The highest paying states for psychology teachers, postsecondarys are California ($106,470), North Dakota ($100,340), Maryland ($99,740), New York ($98,630), Connecticut ($98,390). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.