Math Professors
Overview
Math professors teach college and university students advanced mathematics courses like calculus, statistics, and algebra while also conducting their own research projects. They create course materials, grade assignments and exams, and help students plan their academic paths toward graduation. These educators use modern technology like online learning platforms, graphing software, and interactive whiteboards to make complex math concepts more accessible. Most math professors work in collaborative environments, often teaming up with other faculty to develop new programs and serving on various academic committees.

Did you know?
Most postsecondary mathematics positions in the US require a PhD in mathematics or related field, with community colleges sometimes accepting Master's degrees.
At a Glance
Median Wage
$75,690.20 Avg/yr
Growth
Stable
Top Skill
Writing
Key Responsibilities
- Maintain regularly scheduled office hours to advise and assist students.
- Keep abreast of developments and technological advances in the mathematical field by reading current literature, talking with colleagues, and participating in professional conferences.
- Conduct faculty performance evaluations.
- Plan, evaluate, and revise curricula, course content, and course materials and methods of instruction.
- Write grant proposals to procure external research funding.
- Select and obtain materials and supplies, such as textbooks.
- Prepare course materials, such as syllabi, homework assignments, and handouts.
- Compile, administer, and grade examinations, or assign this work to others.
- Serve on academic or administrative committees that deal with institutional policies, departmental matters, and academic issues.
- Act as advisers to student organizations.
- Evaluate and grade students' class work, assignments, and papers.
- Supervise undergraduate or graduate teaching, internship, and research work.
- Develop department and course schedules.
- Compile bibliographies of specialized materials for outside reading assignments.
- Participate in campus and community events.
- Participate in student recruitment, registration, and placement activities.
- Perform administrative duties, such as serving as department head.
- Maintain student attendance records, grades, and other required records.
- Prepare and deliver lectures to undergraduate or graduate students on topics such as linear algebra, differential equations, and discrete mathematics.
- Conduct research in a particular field of knowledge and publish findings in books, professional journals, or electronic media.
- Advise students on academic and vocational curricula and on career issues.
- Initiate, facilitate, and moderate classroom discussions.
- Collaborate with colleagues to address teaching and research issues.
Career Considerations
Advanced Degree Requirements
Most postsecondary mathematics positions in the US require a PhD in mathematics or related field, with community colleges sometimes accepting Master's degrees.
Highly Competitive Job Market
The academic job market for mathematics faculty is extremely competitive, with many qualified candidates competing for limited tenure-track positions.
Research vs Teaching Balance
Career success often depends on balancing research productivity with teaching excellence, with expectations varying significantly between research universities and teaching-focused institutions.