Teaching & Instruction

University Tutor

SOC 25-1099 · ESCO 2310 · OSCA 252132

REA INV ART SOC ENT CON This role See your match →

Role snapshot

Overview

Leads small-group tutorials and workshops that reinforce lecture content for university students. Marks assignments, provides individual feedback, and helps students develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective study skills. University tutors facilitate active learning, clarify complex concepts, and support students in achieving academic success.

Helps university students deepen their understanding of course material, improve their academic performance, and develop essential learning strategies, ultimately contributing to student retention and success.

On the job

  • Facilitate small-group tutorial sessions and workshops to review course material.
  • Provide one-on-one academic support and feedback on assignments or projects.
  • Develop and adapt learning materials and activities to address student needs.
  • Guide students in developing effective study habits, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
  • Collaborate with course instructors to align tutoring support with curriculum objectives.
University Tutor at work

Tools & technology

Learning Management Systems (e.g., Canvas, Blackboard)Video Conferencing Software (e.g., Zoom, Microsoft Teams)Presentation Software (e.g., PowerPoint, Google Slides)Online collaboration tools (e.g., Google Docs, Miro)Specialized subject software (e.g., MATLAB, R, LaTeX)

Average salary

$40K
MEDIAN SALARY Annual · USD
$25K Bottom 10%
$55K Top 10%

Job outlook

Stable

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

Education & training

A strong academic record and a bachelor's degree in the relevant subject area are typically required. Many university tutors are current graduate students pursuing master's or doctoral degrees.

Career pathways

WHERE YOU COULD GO

Senior University Tutor
Instructional Designer
Lecturer

CURRENT ROLE

University Tutor

Teaching & Instruction

ADJACENT MOVES

Academic Advisor
Curriculum Developer
Successful University Student
Graduate Assistant
Peer Mentor

STARTING POINTS

Who thrives here

Interest profile

S

social · SAI

Individuals who enjoy helping others learn, explaining complex concepts, and engaging in analytical and structured problem-solving tend to thrive in this role.

Personality characteristics

Curious Learner

Enjoys continuously learning new material and finding new ways to explain it, demonstrating a high degree of openness to experience.

Organized Communicator

Can structure complex information clearly, manage multiple student interactions effectively, and maintain detailed records, reflecting strong conscientiousness.

Empathetic Guide

Patiently listens to student challenges, adapts teaching methods to individual needs, and fosters a supportive learning environment, indicative of high agreeableness and social interest.

Resilient Under Pressure

Handles student frustration or academic difficulties with composure and maintains a positive attitude, showing low neuroticism.

Engaging Facilitator

Comfortable leading group discussions, encouraging active participation, and interacting effectively with diverse students, reflecting moderate extraversion and strong social interest.

Best for

  • People who genuinely enjoy teaching and mentoring others in an academic setting.
  • Individuals with deep subject matter expertise who can explain concepts clearly.
  • Those who thrive in a structured environment focused on student success.

Watch out for

  • Can be emotionally demanding when students struggle or resist learning.
  • Requires patience and adaptability, as students have diverse learning styles and needs.

A week in the life

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

8am9am10am11am12pm1pm2pm3pm4pm5pm6pm
Mon
Prepare for morning tutorial (review materials, plan activities)
Lead Biology 101 tutorial session
Individual student consultations
Mark student assignments
Research and develop new learning exercises
Tue
Review assigned readings for upcoming workshops
Meet with course instructor for coordination
Lead Chemistry 201 problem-solving workshop
Provide written feedback on student essays
Wed
Prepare for afternoon group study session
Professional development workshop (e.g., new teaching strategies)
Facilitate Calculus 1 study group
Administrative tasks (scheduling, record keeping)
Thu
Plan next week's tutorial content
Individual student appointments
Lead Physics 101 review session
Collaborate with fellow tutors on best practices
Fri
Catch up on academic literature in subject area
Final review of student submissions for grading
Team meeting with tutoring center staff
Prepare materials for upcoming week
Deep work Meeting External Social Admin

FREE ASSESSMENT

Does University Tutor fit you?

Measure your personality and interests, then see how this career ranks against 1,300+ others — for you personally.

Take the free assessment →