How Much Do Professors Make? Salary, Tenure & Reality

Academic Career - with Professor Tom Kitts

9/9/25

What is it like to build a career teaching English at the college level—and how much can you make doing it? In this episode of How Much Can I Make?, English professor Tom Kitts at St. John’s University shares a behind-the-scenes look at academic life, from adjunct teaching to tenure-track roles. We break down salary ranges, job stability, and the real path into higher education, including graduate degrees, publishing, and the realities of today’s academic job market. Including his books about Rock 'n Roll legends like Ray Davies, John Fogerty, and Richie Furay.

How much can an English professor earn?

English college professors’ salaries vary widely based on role, institution, and experience. Adjunct professors often earn $3,000–$7,000 per course, which can total $20,000–$60,000 annually depending on workload. Full-time lecturers typically earn $55,000–$85,000, while tenure-track and tenured professors can make $80,000–$140,000+. Additional income can come from publishing, speaking, editing, or administrative roles, making earning potential highly flexible within academia.

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FAQ

How much does an English college professor make?
Salaries range from $20,000–$60,000 for adjuncts, $55,000–$85,000 for lecturers, and $80,000–$140,000+ for tenured professors.

What degree do you need to become an English professor?
Most full-time positions require a PhD in English or a related field, though some community colleges accept a master’s degree.

What is an adjunct professor?
An adjunct professor is a part-time instructor hired per course, often without benefits or long-term job security.

Is being a college professor a stable career?
Tenure-track positions offer stability, but they are competitive. Many instructors begin as adjuncts before securing full-time roles.

Can English professors earn income outside teaching?
Yes. Many supplement income through writing, publishing, editing, consulting, or speaking engagements.

Are English professors in demand?
Demand is competitive, with more candidates than available tenure-track positions, but opportunities exist in teaching, writing, and related fields.