Computer science teachers, postsecondary
SOC Code: 25-1021
Computer science teachers, postsecondary carries a 36% AI exposure score (Medium automation risk), with a median annual wage of $96,690 and +5.3% projected employment growth from 2024 to 2034 (BLS), affecting approximately 44,800 workers. Full task breakdown, skills, and employer data are below.
Proportion of tasks susceptible to AI automation (O*NET analysis)
AI Exposure vs Industry Growth
Total occupations tracked
832
Covering all SOC major groups
Data currency
2024
BLS Employment Projections
AI exposure avg
40%
Fleet-wide median across all roles
Composite score weighing O*NET task data completeness, BLS projection methodology, and cross-validation with employer risk grades.
Employment Projections
Occupation Insight
Computer science teachers, postsecondary (SOC 25-1021) carries an AI exposure score of 36%, placing it in the Medium automation-risk tier. This score is computed from O*NET Database 30.0 task-level analysis, where each task an occupation performs is evaluated against current generative AI, robotic process automation, and machine-learning capabilities. A score below 40% reflects tasks anchored in physical dexterity, unstructured environments, or high-touch human interaction that current AI cannot reliably replicate.
The economic context matters alongside the risk score. BLS counted approximately 44,800 workers in this occupation in 2024, and projects a +5.3% change through 2034 — modest growth that keeps the occupation viable even as tasks evolve. Median annual compensation stands at $96,690, reflecting both skill scarcity and the value employers place on the tasks that remain difficult to automate. Entry typically requires Doctoral or professional degree, plus None of related experience.
For career planners, this profile should be read alongside the task, skill, and knowledge breakdowns below and the list of employers whose workforce composition includes Computer science teachers, postsecondary. Adjacent occupations shown further down offer lateral moves that preserve industry knowledge while potentially reducing exposure. Pair the AI exposure score with the BLS employment projection and wage percentiles above for a complete career assessment.
Education & Entry Requirements
Top Tasks (O*NET)
- 1. Prepare course materials, such as syllabi, homework assignments, and handouts.
- 2. Compile, administer, and grade examinations or assign this work to others.
- 3. Prepare and deliver lectures to undergraduate or graduate students on topics such as programming, data structures, and software design.
- 4. Evaluate and grade students' class work, laboratory work, assignments, and papers.
- 5. Direct research of other teachers or of graduate students working for advanced academic degrees.
- 6. Maintain student attendance records, grades, and other required records.
- 7. Supervise undergraduate or graduate teaching, internship, and research work.
- 8. Keep abreast of developments in the field by reading current literature, talking with colleagues, and participating in professional conferences.
- 9. Plan, evaluate, and revise curricula, course content, and course materials and methods of instruction.
- 10. Conduct research in a particular field of knowledge and publish findings in professional journals, books, or electronic media.
Key Skills Required
- Instructing
- Reading Comprehension
- Writing
- Speaking
- Active Listening
- Critical Thinking
- Active Learning
- Learning Strategies
- Judgment and Decision Making
- Monitoring
Knowledge Areas
- Computers and Electronics
- Education and Training
- English Language
- Customer and Personal Service
- Mathematics
- Engineering and Technology
- Administration and Management
- Administrative
- Design
- Public Safety and Security
Frequently Asked Questions
Will AI replace Computer science teachers, postsecondary?
Computer science teachers, postsecondary has an AI exposure score of 36%, indicating a medium level of automation risk. The majority of tasks in this role require human judgment, creativity, or physical presence that AI cannot easily replicate.
What is the job outlook for Computer science teachers, postsecondary?
According to BLS Employment Projections 2024-2034, Computer science teachers, postsecondary is projected to grow by 5.3% over the decade. Current employment stands at approximately 44,800 workers.
What skills are needed for Computer science teachers, postsecondary?
Key skills for Computer science teachers, postsecondary include Instructing, Reading Comprehension, Writing, and others. Typical entry-level education is Doctoral or professional degree.
How much do Computer science teachers, postsecondary earn?
The median annual wage for Computer science teachers, postsecondary is $96,690, according to BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2024). Actual earnings vary by location, experience, industry, and employer. The BLS publishes detailed wage percentiles by region in its Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics program.
What education is required for Computer science teachers, postsecondary?
The typical entry-level education for Computer science teachers, postsecondary is Doctoral or professional degree. Employers generally expect None of related work experience. On-the-job training typically involves None. Requirements can vary by employer and specialization.
Which companies employ Computer science teachers, postsecondary?
Computer science teachers, postsecondary roles exist across many industries and employers. Workforce composition is estimated from BLS industry-occupation employment distributions matched to SEC-registered public companies.
AI Exposure Rating
Medium automation risk based on 10 analyzed tasks. Most tasks require human judgment and are resistant to automation.
Related Occupations
Career Guides
Explore More on PlainWorkforce
Data sources: Bureau of Labor Statistics Employment Projections 2024–2034 and O*NET Database 30.0. Employment figures are rounded. Wage data from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics (OES).