Teacher, nursing, dentistry

What does a teacher in nursing and dental care do? – Tasks and work environment

A teacher in nursing and dental care educates future healthcare and dental professionals by teaching both theoretical and practical components. Responsibilities include planning and conducting lessons, supervising students during internships, assessing knowledge, and developing educational materials. The work is often carried out in close collaboration with the industry to ensure that teaching is relevant and up-to-date with industry standards. The environment is dynamic, alternating between classrooms, laboratories, and internship sites, requiring flexibility and pedagogical skill.

Salary development over time

The salary for teachers in nursing and dental care has experienced steady growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 39,100 SEK per month, increasing to 40 200 SEK in 2023 and further to 41 600 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 6.4% over the three-year period, which is higher than the average for many other teaching professions. The salary increase can be linked to continued strong demand for vocational teachers in healthcare and dental care, especially given the growing shortage of qualified personnel in these fields. Education level and work experience also play a significant role in salary development, as do employer sector and geographic location.

Teacher salaries in nursing and dental care – complete overview

• Average salary: 41 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 34,400 SEK/month (female, municipal sector, upper secondary education)
• Highest salary: 47,600 SEK/month (male, private sector, research education)
• Hourly wage (average): 250 SEK
• Gender difference: Women earn 41 300 SEK, men 41 800 SEK (99%)
• Regional differences: Data varies by region, but higher salaries are often seen in metropolitan areas.

Education and qualifications

To work as a teacher in nursing and dental care, a vocational teacher degree with specialization in healthcare or dentistry is usually required. Many have backgrounds as licensed nurses, dental assistants, or dental hygienists, along with several years of work experience before entering the teaching profession. In addition to formal education, supplementary pedagogical training and supervisor training are often demanded.

• Vocational teacher degree: University education, 1.5–3 years depending on prior knowledge
• Certification in healthcare/dentistry: For example, nurse or dental assistant
• Pedagogical training: Additional pedagogy required for many positions
• Work experience: At least a couple of years relevant industry experience is highly meritorious
• Supervision/Trainee: Internship or trainee period may occur early in the career

Common benefits and compensations

Teachers in nursing and dental care are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, professional development, and flexible working hours. Additional compensations may include extra pay for supervising students during internships and participating in development projects and further training.

Competition and challenges

Competition for positions as teachers in nursing and dental care is generally low, as demand for trained vocational teachers in these fields is high. At the same time, recruitment difficulties are reported, especially for individuals with both pedagogical and practical professional competence. Challenges include high workload, the need for continuous skill development, and adaptation to new educational standards. The labor market is influenced by changes within healthcare and dentistry, as well as national educational initiatives, which can create periods of high demand and transition.

Tips for those who want to become teachers in nursing and dental care

To succeed as a teacher in nursing and dental care, it is beneficial to combine pedagogical skills with practical experience from healthcare or dental professions. A structured approach facilitates planning of lessons and internships, while good collaboration skills make it easier to work with colleagues and external partners. Flexibility is an important trait to adapt teaching to students' needs and industry changes, and strong leadership is needed to motivate and guide students. Continuously furthering education and staying updated on new research in healthcare and dentistry strengthen both the professional role and teaching. Finally, a strong engagement and passion for inspiring the next generation of healthcare professionals are highly valued.

Key facts about teachers in nursing and dental care

• Education level: Vocational teacher degree and certification in healthcare/dentistry
• Work environment: Alternates between classroom, internship, and industry settings
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment according to Arbetsförmedlingen
• Work form: Mostly full-time, sometimes flexible hours
• Number of available jobs: 434 advertised positions in Sweden (2024)

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, opportunities open to specialize further, for example as program manager, mentor for colleagues, or development leader within educational activities. Some choose to pursue further education in pedagogy or leadership to advance to roles such as principal or coordinator. Forecasts from Arbetsförmedlingen indicate that the labor market for teachers in vocational subjects, including nursing and dental care, is expected to have great opportunities and unchanged demand over the next five years. However, a paradoxical situation exists where recruitment is difficult, yet there are high levels of part-time work and attrition from the profession. Those combining professional competence with pedagogical skills have very good chances for a long-term career.

Common questions about teachers in nursing and dental care

• What does a teacher in nursing and dental care earn?
  - The average salary is 41 600 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, education level, and employer sector.
• How does one become a teacher in nursing and dental care?
  - A vocational teacher degree and certification in healthcare or dentistry are required, often supplemented with pedagogical training and work experience.
• Are there many job openings?
  - Yes, in May 2024, there were 434 jobs available within the profession in Sweden.
• What are the main challenges in the profession?
  - High workload, need for ongoing training, and continuous adaptation to educational requirements are common challenges.
• How do salary differences between women and men look?
  - Women earn on average 41 300 SEK, men 41 800 SEK, which means women earn 99% of men's salaries.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for the profession?
  - The highest salary is 47,600 SEK (male, private sector, research education), the lowest 34,400 SEK (female, municipal sector, upper secondary education).
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Pedagogical ability, flexibility, leadership, and engagement are key qualities for the profession.