Study instructor

What does a Study Instructor do? – Tasks and work environment

A Study Instructor works with guiding, supporting, and motivating students across various educational forms, often focusing on individuals with special needs or learning difficulties. Tasks include planning individual study plans, adapting teaching materials, and following up and documenting study results. Study Instructors collaborate closely with teachers, special educators, and sometimes social services or healthcare staff to create an optimal learning environment. The work is usually in school settings, adult education, or folk high schools, involving both individual and group support. The work environment is characterized by pedagogical challenges, variety, and a significant social responsibility.

Salary development over time

The profession of Study Instructor has experienced stable and positive salary growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 43,000 SEK per month, which increased to 44 400 SEK in 2023 and reached 45 900 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to a total salary increase of just over 6.7% over three years, which is slightly above the average for pedagogical professions. This development reflects an increased demand for specialized pedagogical competence, especially within adult education and special teaching. The trend indicates that employers value experience and further education, which has helped push up salary levels. At the same time, the gender pay gap is close to zero, indicating a relatively equal pay structure within the profession.

Study Instructor salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 45 900 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 34,600 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 50,700 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 276 SEK
• Women: 46 000 SEK/month (101% of men's salary)
• Men: 45 500 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Small variations, but higher salaries occur in metropolitan areas

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a Study Instructor usually involves post-secondary education in pedagogy, special education, or similar fields. Often, a teaching degree with additional qualifications in special education or relevant experience in teaching and guiding situations is required. Practical experience and further training are highly valued, and many employers view additional education in areas such as neuropsychiatric functional variations or adult pedagogy positively.

• Teaching degree: Basic teacher or subject-specific teacher (3–5 years)
• Additional qualifications: Special education supplement or courses (1–2 years)
• Certifications: Courses in adult education, NPF, or guiding
• Practical experience: Experience from educational environments is meritorious
• Prerequisites: Upper secondary diploma and university eligibility

Common benefits and compensations

Study Instructors are often offered collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, flexitime, and opportunities for professional development. Other common compensations include holiday pay, parental leave pay, and possibilities for remote work depending on the employer.

Competition and challenges

The demand for Study Instructors is assessed as moderate, and the job market is characterized by balance according to the Swedish Employment Agency's forecasts. Challenges in the profession include meeting increased demands for individual adaptation and working with students with complex needs. Competition for positions may vary regionally, with somewhat more opportunities in larger cities or within adult education. Staying updated on new pedagogical methods and legislation is important, while workload can sometimes be high. There is also a continuous need for professional development to meet changing requirements from both employers and students.

Tips for those who want to become a Study Instructor

To succeed as a Study Instructor, it is good to have a lot of patience and the ability to listen to different needs, as each student has a unique background and conditions. Being flexible and adaptable makes it easier to find individual solutions in teaching and to handle unexpected challenges. Communication skills are crucial for explaining difficult concepts accessibly and building trust among students. Engagement and curiosity help stay updated on new pedagogical tools and methods. Additionally, structure and good planning skills are helpful when following up on study plans and documenting progress. Building networks with colleagues and sharing experiences can also provide valuable insights for those who want to develop in the profession.

Key facts about Study Instructor

• Average salary: 45 900 SEK/month
• Educational level: University degree with special education supplement
• Work environment: School setting or adult education, often in teams
• Gender pay gap: Women earn on average 101% of men's salary
• Job openings (2024): 434 within the profession

Career paths and future prospects

After 3–5 years in the profession, a Study Instructor can advance to roles such as special educator, training coordinator, or take responsibility for larger educational initiatives within adult education and SFI. Some choose to further specialize in neuropsychiatric functional variations or become supervisors for colleagues. The Swedish Employment Agency's forecast indicates that the job market will continue to be balanced in the coming years, with moderate opportunities for employment and demand expected to remain unchanged. Digitalization and increased focus on inclusion may create new development paths for those seeking further specialization. Within the profession, there are good opportunities to influence one's role and develop further, especially for those open to continuous professional development.

Common questions about Study Instructor

• What does a Study Instructor earn?
  - A Study Instructor has an average salary of 45 900 SEK per month.
• How has the salary development been for Study Instructor?
  - The salary has increased from 43,000 SEK in 2022 to 45 900 SEK in 2024.
• Are there differences in salary between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 101% of what men do within the profession.
• What education is required to become a Study Instructor?
  - Higher education in pedagogy or special education, often with additional qualifications.
• What are the most common workplaces for Study Instructors?
  - Adult education, folk high schools, and schools.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - The job market is considered balanced with moderate opportunities and unchanged demand.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for a Study Instructor?
  - The highest salary is 50,700 SEK and the lowest is 34,600 SEK per month.