Teaching & Instruction

Economics Teacher

SOC 25-1063.00 · ESCO 2310

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Role snapshot

Overview

Economics Teachers deliver lectures on micro and macroeconomics, design course materials, and assess student work at the university level. Publishing original research and mentoring graduate students add depth beyond the classroom. This role involves a blend of teaching, research, and service to the academic community, contributing to the intellectual development of students and the advancement of economic knowledge.

Shapes the economic understanding of future generations, contributes to academic research and policy debates, and mentors students into careers in economics, finance, and public service.

On the job

  • Develop and deliver engaging lectures and seminars on various economic topics.
  • Design and update course curricula, syllabi, and assessment methods.
  • Conduct original research, write papers, and present findings at academic conferences.
  • Grade assignments and exams, providing constructive feedback to students.
  • Advise and mentor undergraduate and graduate students on academic progress, research, and career paths.
  • Participate in departmental meetings, committees, and other university service activities.
Economics Teacher at work

Tools & technology

Statistical software (e.g., R, Stata, Python)Learning Management Systems (e.g., Canvas, Blackboard)Presentation software (e.g., PowerPoint, Keynote)Academic databases (e.g., JSTOR, EconLit)Equation editors (e.g., LaTeX)

Average salary

$105K
MEDIAN SALARY Annual · USD
$70K Bottom 10%
$160K Top 10%

Job outlook

Stable

Demand is steady. This is an established role with consistent hiring across sectors.

Education & training

A doctoral degree (Ph.D.) in economics is typically required for postsecondary teaching and research positions, especially at universities. Some community college positions may accept a Master's degree.

Career pathways

WHERE YOU COULD GO

Department Chair
Dean of Faculty

CURRENT ROLE

Economics Teacher

Teaching & Instruction

ADJACENT MOVES

Economist (Government/Private Sector)
Economics Phd Student
Research Fellow Economics
Adjunct Economics Instructor

STARTING POINTS

Who thrives here

Interest profile

I

investigative · SIC

People who enjoy in-depth investigation, critical analysis, structured academic work, and interacting with and instructing others, tend to thrive in this role.

Personality characteristics

Intellectually Curious

Possesses a strong drive to explore complex economic theories, conduct original research, and continuously learn and adapt to new knowledge.

Meticulous

Exhibits thoroughness and precision in research, data analysis, grading, and curriculum development, ensuring accuracy and high standards.

Engaging Communicator

Comfortable and effective in delivering lectures, leading discussions, and presenting complex economic concepts clearly to diverse audiences.

Supportive

Demonstrates empathy and patience in mentoring students, collaborating with colleagues, and fostering a positive learning environment.

Resilient

Manages the pressures of academic life, including research demands, publication cycles, and student expectations, without excessive stress.

Best for

  • Individuals passionate about both deepening their understanding of economics and inspiring others to do the same.
  • Those who thrive in an environment that values intellectual autonomy, continuous learning, and contributing to knowledge.

Watch out for

  • The demands of both teaching and research can lead to long hours, especially during peak academic periods.
  • Academic publishing can be a competitive and sometimes slow process, requiring persistence and resilience to feedback.

A week in the life

A representative working week for a Economics Teacher — where the deep work, meetings, and admin actually land.

8am9am10am11am12pm1pm2pm3pm4pm5pm6pm
Mon
Lecture preparation
Undergraduate lecture
Office hours for students
Research and data analysis
Tue
Graduate seminar
Department meeting
Student advising session
Grading papers and assignments
Wed
Focused research and writing
Undergraduate lecture
Co-author collaboration meeting
Thu
Curriculum development and planning
Thesis committee meeting
Reviewing journal submissions
Advanced research project
Fri
Finalizing research paper for submission
Administrative tasks and emails
Professional development reading
Preparing for next week's lectures
Deep work Meeting External Social Admin

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