Senior lecturer, college / university

What does a professor at colleges and universities do? – Tasks and work environment

A professor at colleges and universities is responsible for teaching, supervising students, and conducting research within their subject area. Tasks include planning and delivering lectures, seminars, and laboratory sessions, as well as examining students and developing course content. In addition to teaching, it is common to conduct independent research, publish scientific articles, and participate in academic conferences. The work is mainly performed in university settings, where the workday can vary between scheduled teaching sessions and independent research. Collegial collaboration and international contacts are also a natural part of the professional life.

Salary development over time

The salary of a professor at colleges/universities has shown steady growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 51,500 SEK/month, increasing to 52 500 SEK in 2023. The latest recorded average salary for 2024 is 54 600 SEK, representing a salary increase of about 6% over two years. This trend is driven mainly by increased demands for academic qualifications, competition for qualified staff, and a growing need for research and education at the university level. Salary levels are also influenced by factors such as work experience, subject focus, and employer sector. Despite relatively small gender pay gaps, men still have a slight advantage in salary statistics.

Professor at colleges/universities salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 54 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 48,200 SEK/month (female, private sector, upper secondary education of up to 2 years)
• Highest salary: 56,800 SEK/month (male, public sector, pre-secondary education)
• Hourly wage: 328 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 98% of men's salaries (men 55 100 SEK, women 54 000 SEK)
• Regional differences: No data on regional variations available

Education and qualifications

To work as a professor at colleges and universities, a solid academic background is required, typically a doctoral degree in the relevant subject area. In addition to formal education, scientific publications, pedagogical skills, and teaching experience are highly valued. Many employers also require completed higher education pedagogical training or equivalent merits to ensure teaching quality.

• Formal degree: Doctoral degree (usually 4–5 years of postgraduate studies after a bachelor's degree)
• Pedagogical training: Often a requirement to complete a course (about 10 weeks)
• Research experience: Meritorious with scientific publications and project management
• Teaching experience: Usually documented experience from universities/colleges
• Prerequisites: Basic advanced-level degree in the relevant subject

Common benefits and compensations

Professors at colleges and universities are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, flexible working hours, paid vacation, and opportunities for professional development. Special research funds, participation in international conferences, and support for further education are also common. Many employers also provide wellness allowances and subsidized lunches.

Competition and challenges

Competition for professorships at colleges and universities is generally high, especially in popular subject areas. Expectations for academic output and pedagogical development are continuously increasing, placing demands on research merits and teaching competence. Balancing research, teaching, and administrative tasks can be challenging, especially for early-career professors. Uncertain funding and fixed-term employment are other factors affecting the work environment. Despite this, the profession attracts with the possibility of academic freedom and intellectual stimulation.

Tips for aspiring professors at colleges and universities

To succeed as a professor at colleges and universities, it is good to combine scientific curiosity with perseverance. Engaging early in research projects during your studies provides valuable experience and strengthens your CV. Pedagogical skills are crucial, so actively seeking teaching opportunities and participating in relevant courses to develop your teaching style is advisable. The ability to collaborate and build networks, both within and outside your subject, opens doors to new projects and research collaborations. Being organized and able to manage multiple tasks simultaneously is an important trait, especially when workload varies. Flexibility and a willingness to continuously develop within your field increase the chances of a long and successful career as a professor.

Key facts about Professor at colleges and universities

• Educational level: Doctoral degree required
• Average salary: 54 600 SEK/month
• Typical employment type: Permanent position, university environment
• Demand: 434 job openings in June 2024
• Gender difference: Women earn 98% of men's salaries

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a professor at colleges and universities, opportunities open for meritorious roles such as docent, research leader, or department head. For those focused on research, an international career or leadership position within research groups can become relevant. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, the outlook is good, especially in natural sciences, technology, and health-related subjects where demand for qualified teachers and researchers remains high. In June 2024, there were 434 available positions in the field, indicating a stable job market. Opportunities for further education and career development are good, although competition for permanent positions at the most attractive institutions is intense.

Common questions about Professor at colleges and universities

• What is the salary of a Professor at colleges and universities?
  - The average salary is 54 600 SEK/month, with variation depending on experience, subject area, and workplace.
• What education is required to become a professor at colleges and universities?
  - A doctoral degree in the relevant field and often higher education pedagogical training.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 98% of men's salaries within the profession.
• What is the job market like for professors?
  - There is strong demand with 434 job openings in June 2024.
• What are the job responsibilities of a professor at colleges and universities?
  - Teaching, supervision, research, and course development are central tasks.
• What are the lowest and highest salaries for professors at colleges and universities?
  - The lowest salary is 48,200 SEK/month and the highest is 56,800 SEK/month.
• What personal qualities are important in the profession?
  - Scientific curiosity, pedagogical ability, and good collaboration skills are important qualities.