Professor, college / university

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

A professor at colleges and universities is responsible for advanced research, teaching at undergraduate and postgraduate levels, supervising doctoral students and students. Tasks include leading research projects, publishing scientific articles, participating in academic networks, and developing course content. The professor also plays an important role in contributing to the strategic development of the institution, participating in committees, and often applying for external research funding. The work environment is characterized by independence, a high intellectual pace, and demands for continuous professional development, with both individual and collaborative work.

Salary development over time

The salary for professors at colleges and universities has shown stable and positive growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 72,000 SEK per month, increasing to 73 900 SEK in 2023 and now reaching 76 800 SEK in 2024. This represents an increase of approximately 6.7% during the period. The development reflects a continued high demand for qualified academic expertise, increased research quality requirements, and competition for leading researchers internationally. Especially in technical and natural sciences, competition for professorships has contributed to pushing salary levels higher. Salary differences may also depend on subject area, employment type, and funding level.

Professor salary at colleges and universities – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 76 800 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 58,200 SEK/month (male, private sector employee, up to 2 years of upper secondary education); women: 63,500 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 87,500 SEK/month (male, private sector employee, doctoral degree); women: 81,100 SEK/month
• Hourly wage: 462 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Men earn 77 600 SEK, women 75 500 SEK (women 97% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary between institutions and regions, but differences are generally small relative to expertise and subject area.

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a professor at colleges and universities is long and requires high academic achievement, usually a doctoral degree in a relevant field. After completing the doctorate, several years of research and teaching as a lecturer or researcher follow, along with documented scientific output and pedagogical skills. Selection is often through international competition and expert review.

• Doctoral training: Doctoral degree (about 4–5 years after undergraduate studies)
• Undergraduate education: Bachelor's and often master's degree in a relevant field
• Pedagogical merits: Courses in university pedagogy and documented teaching experience
• Scientific production: Several published articles in international journals
• International experience: Meritorious to have stays abroad or collaborations

Common benefits and compensations

Professors at colleges and universities often enjoy generous pension schemes, flexible working hours, and opportunities for research leave. Other common benefits include professional development support, assistance for international travel and conferences, and compensation for supervision and participation in research projects. In some cases, wellness allowances and access to university services are included.

Competition and challenges

Competition for professorships at colleges and universities is very fierce, especially in popular and research-intensive subject areas. Positions are often advertised internationally, and the recruitment process is extensive, involving expert assessments and high requirements for scientific and pedagogical merits. One of the biggest challenges is balancing research, teaching, and administrative tasks sustainably. Funding for research projects is another critical factor, as many professors are expected to secure external funding for their department. Continuous professional development is also necessary to maintain a leading position in their research field.

Tips for aspiring professors at colleges and universities

To succeed as a professor at colleges and universities, it is good to develop a strong scientific curiosity and perseverance early on, as the path to professorship is long and requires continuous research. Being communicative and able to collaborate with colleagues is crucial, especially in interdisciplinary projects and student supervision. Good organizational skills are also important to balance research, teaching, and administrative duties. Building a strategic network, both nationally and internationally, opens new research opportunities and collaborations. Finally, career advancement benefits from being pedagogically engaged and flexible, as teaching tasks often change with new educational needs and research findings.

Key facts about Professor at colleges and universities

• Educational level: Doctoral degree, often with international experience
• Work environment: Academic, independent, and research-intensive
• Typical employment type: Permanent position at a state or private college/university
• Demand: 434 job openings in the field according to latest statistics
• Special skills: Research, scientific publishing, and supervision

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a professor, career development can lead to senior roles such as head of department, dean, or pro-rector at the institution. Other options include leading larger research centers, participating in international committees, or taking on roles within research funding organizations. The job market outlook is stable, with ongoing demand for experienced and merited professors, especially in technology, natural sciences, and medicine. According to the Employment Service, competition for positions remains high, but retirements and increased research funding may create new opportunities in the future.

Frequently asked questions about Professor at colleges and universities

• What does a professor earn at colleges and universities?
  - The average salary is 76 800 SEK/month, but it varies depending on experience, subject area, and employment type.
• How does one become a professor at colleges and universities?
  - First, a doctoral degree and several years of research and teaching are required, followed by expert review and international merits.
• Are there differences between women's and men's salaries?
  - Yes, women earn on average 97% of what men do in the profession.
• What are the job responsibilities of a professor?
  - Professors conduct research, teach, supervise doctoral students, and participate in institutional management and development.
• What are the most common benefits?
  - Pension schemes, flexible working hours, opportunities for professional development, and international travel are common benefits.
• What is the job market like for professors?
  - There are approximately 434 job openings in the field, but competition is very high.
• What education is required to become a professor?
  - A doctoral degree in a relevant field, along with documented scientific and pedagogical skills.