Postsecondary Psychology Teacher in North Carolina Career Overview

As a postsecondary psychology teacher, you play a significant role in shaping the next generation of psychologists and mental health professionals. Your responsibilities typically include:

  • Designing and delivering course content that covers various aspects of psychology, such as cognitive, developmental, clinical, and social psychology.
  • Engaging students through lectures, discussions, and experiential learning activities that foster critical thinking and a deeper understanding of psychological concepts.
  • Evaluating student performance through assignments, exams, and research projects, providing feedback to enhance learning outcomes.
  • Staying current with the latest research and developments in psychology to ensure that your teaching reflects contemporary findings and theories.

Your position is vital in academic settings, as you help to prepare students for advanced studies and professional roles in psychology and related fields. In addition to classroom teaching, you may also mentor students and guide them in their academic and professional pursuits, contributing to their overall development and career readiness. The influence you have on students can extend beyond their educational experience, as you equip them with the knowledge and skills necessary to address various psychological issues within society. Through your work, you contribute to the broader understanding of human behavior, mental health, and well-being, making an essential impact in both educational and community contexts.

Postsecondary Psychology Teacher Salary in North Carolina

Annual Median: $70,740
Hourly Median: N/A

Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.

Required Education To Become a Postsecondary Psychology Teacher in North Carolina

To become a Postsecondary Psychology Teacher in North Carolina, you will need to complete specific educational qualifications and training. Here are the necessary degree programs:

  • Doctorate in Psychology (Ph.D. or Psy.D.)

    • The most common requirement for postsecondary teaching positions in psychology is a doctorate degree. You can pursue various specializations, including:
      • Clinical Psychology: This program focuses on diagnosing and treating mental illnesses. Emphasis is placed on research and clinical practice.
      • Cognitive Psychology and Psycholinguistics: This area studies mental processes and their relation to language. Your training would involve research methodology and theoretical frameworks.
      • Counseling Psychology: Training in this program combines theory and practice, equipping you to teach topics related to counseling techniques and psychology practices.
      • Educational Psychology: This degree emphasizes the psychological aspects of education and learning processes, preparing you to teach about instructional methodologies and cognitive development.
      • Psychology: A general doctorate in psychology can also qualify you for a teaching position. This broad program covers various psychology domains, including experimental, social, and developmental psychology.

  • Master's Degree in Psychology (optional but beneficial)

    • While a doctorate is typically required for postsecondary teaching, obtaining a Master's degree can be helpful, particularly in leveraging teaching assistant positions or gaining relevant experience. Specializations can include any of the aforementioned areas or more general psychology.

  • Postdoctoral Training (if applicable)

    • Depending on your field of specialization, engaging in postdoctoral research can enhance your qualifications and provide additional expertise in a specific area of psychology. This experience can also improve your teaching credentials.

In summary, the educational pathway to becoming a Postsecondary Psychology Teacher in North Carolina generally involves obtaining a doctorate degree in one of the specified psychology disciplines, with a potential foundational Master's degree and additional postdoctoral training as beneficial to your career trajectory.

Best Schools to become a Postsecondary Psychology Teacher in North Carolina 2024

#1Merrimack County

Southern New Hampshire University

Manchester, NH

In-State Tuition:$15,000
Out-of-State Tuition:$15,000
Admission Rate:96%
Graduation Rate:41%
Total Enrollment:164,091
#2Miami-Dade County

Florida International University

Miami, FL

In-State Tuition:$4,721
Out-of-State Tuition:$16,529
Admission Rate:64%
Graduation Rate:69%
Total Enrollment:55,609
#3Orange County

University of Central Florida

Orlando, FL

In-State Tuition:$4,478
Out-of-State Tuition:$19,810
Admission Rate:41%
Graduation Rate:76%
Total Enrollment:68,346
#4Lynchburg City

Liberty University

Lynchburg, VA

In-State Tuition:$15,467
Out-of-State Tuition:$15,467
Admission Rate:99%
Graduation Rate:66%
Total Enrollment:96,709
#5Maricopa County

Arizona State University Digital Immersion

Scottsdale, AZ

In-State Tuition:$10,978
Out-of-State Tuition:$13,248
Admission Rate:64%
Graduation Rate:52%
Total Enrollment:62,551
#6Los Angeles County

California State University-Northridge

Northridge, CA

In-State Tuition:$5,742
Out-of-State Tuition:$17,622
Admission Rate:91%
Graduation Rate:56%
Total Enrollment:37,579
Postsecondary Psychology Teacher Job Description:
  • Teach courses in psychology, such as child, clinical, and developmental psychology, and psychological counseling.
  • Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.

Postsecondary Psychology Teacher Required Skills and Competencies in North Carolina

  • Strong Communication Skills: You need to articulate complex psychological concepts clearly and effectively to diverse groups of students, using both verbal and written formats.

  • Teaching and Instructional Skills: Mastery of pedagogical techniques is essential for creating engaging lesson plans and delivering content that facilitates student understanding.

  • Critical Thinking: You should possess the ability to analyze psychological theories and research critically and encourage students to develop their own analytical skills.

  • Interpersonal Skills: Building rapport with students is important for fostering a supportive learning environment and addressing students' diverse needs.

  • Organizational Skills: You must manage multiple courses, assignments, and schedules efficiently while keeping track of student progress and assessments.

  • Knowledge of Psychology: A deep understanding of various psychological theories, research methods, and contemporary issues in psychology is necessary to provide accurate and relevant information.

  • Adaptability: Being open to changing teaching methods and materials based on student feedback and advancements in the field of psychology can enhance educational outcomes.

  • Research Skills: You should be adept at conducting research, analyzing findings, and applying evidence-based practices in both your teaching and your scholarly activities.

  • Technological Proficiency: Familiarity with learning management systems, online teaching tools, and other educational technologies is vital for effective teaching, especially in hybrid or online formats.

  • Assessment and Evaluation Skills: You need to develop, implement, and interpret various assessment methods to evaluate student performance and provide constructive feedback.

  • Cultural Competence: Understanding and appreciating diverse cultural backgrounds will enhance your effectiveness in teaching and engaging students from various demographics.

Job Duties for Postsecondary Psychology Teachers

  • Evaluate and grade students' class work, laboratory work, assignments, and papers.

  • Initiate, facilitate, and moderate classroom discussions.

  • Prepare and deliver lectures to undergraduate or graduate students on topics such as abnormal psychology, cognitive processes, and work motivation.

Technologies and Skills Used by Postsecondary Psychology Teachers

Analytical or scientific software

  • IBM SPSS Statistics
  • The MathWorks MATLAB

Computer based training software

  • Learning management system LMS
  • Moodle

Word processing software

  • Google Docs
  • Microsoft Word

Basic Skills

  • Reading work related information
  • Using the best training or teaching strategies for learning new things

People and Technology Systems

  • Figuring out how a system should work and how changes in the future will affect it
  • Thinking about the pros and cons of different options and picking the best one

Problem Solving

  • Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Job Market and Opportunities for Postsecondary Psychology Teacher in North Carolina

The job market for Postsecondary Psychology Teachers in North Carolina is shaped by various factors, including demand for higher education, workforce needs, and regional trends.

  • Current Demand: There is a steady demand for psychology instructors at both community colleges and four-year institutions. As universities expand their psychology programs to meet growing student interest, they need qualified educators. Additionally, the mental health field's prominence has led to increased enrollment in psychology courses, driving demand for faculty.

  • Growth Potential: The job outlook for Postsecondary Psychology Teachers is encouraging. Nationally, employment for postsecondary educators is projected to grow, and North Carolina aligns with this trend due to increasing numbers of college students. Growth in online education also influences job opportunities, as more institutions seek instructors who can teach remotely.

  • Geographical Hotspots: In North Carolina, certain regions exhibit higher concentrations of job opportunities:

    • Research Triangle: Encompassing Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill, this area is home to several major universities and community colleges, providing numerous teaching opportunities.
    • Charlotte: As one of the largest metropolitan areas in the state, Charlotte has a growing educational sector and offers various teaching roles in both public and private institutions.
    • Winston-Salem and Greensboro: These cities feature established higher education institutions that contribute to the demand for psychology faculty.

  • Emerging Trends: The expansion of programs addressing mental health issues and the intersection of psychology with fields like business, health sciences, and education continues to create new teaching positions. Moreover, as online learning becomes more prevalent, opportunities for remote teaching positions are likely to increase.

With the growth of psychology programs and demand for qualified instructors, you are entering a dynamic job market with numerous opportunities across North Carolina.

Top Related Careers to Postsecondary Psychology Teacher 2024

Child Psychology Lecturer
Clinical Psychology Educator
Developmental Psychology Professor
Psychological Counseling Instructor

Additional Resources To Help You Become a Postsecondary Psychology Teacher in North Carolina

  • American Psychological Association (APA)

    • Website: www.apa.org
    • The APA provides a wealth of resources about psychological research, ethical guidelines, and educational standards beneficial for educators in psychology.

  • National Communication Association (NCA)

    • Website: www.natcom.org
    • This organization offers resources related to communication studies, which are essential for teaching psychology effectively and connecting with students.

  • Society for the Teaching of Psychology (STP)

    • Website: teachpsych.org
    • STP is dedicated to teaching and learning in psychology. They provide teaching resources, best practices, and community engagement opportunities.

  • Council on Undergraduate Research (CUR)

    • Website: www.cur.org
    • CUR promotes undergraduate research, offering resources and grants that can enhance your pedagogical practices and engage students in research.

  • American Association of University Professors (AAUP)

    • Website: www.aaup.org
    • The AAUP focuses on higher education issues, including academic freedom and quality of education, which are key components for postsecondary educators.

  • North Carolina Community College System (NCCCS)

    • Website: www.nccommunitycolleges.edu
    • The NCCCS provides information on community colleges in North Carolina, which may offer opportunities for teaching and resources related to the state’s educational landscape.

  • North Carolina Psychological Association (NCPA)

    • Website: www.ncpsychology.org
    • NCPA supports psychology education and practice in North Carolina. They offer networking opportunities and professional development resources.

  • Khan Academy Psychology & Sociology

  • Thomson Reuters - Westlaw

    • Website: legal.thomsonreuters.com
    • Access to legal resources can be beneficial, especially related to ethics, laws, and regulations concerning education and psychology.

  • PsycINFO Database

    • Access via most academic libraries.
    • A rich database for psychological literature, PsycINFO is essential for researching current trends and findings in psychology, which can inform your teaching.

Utilizing these resources will enhance your knowledge and skills in the field of psychology education, and keep you updated on best practices and trends in teaching.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Postsecondary Psychology Teacher in North Carolina

  • What are the educational requirements to become a Postsecondary Psychology Teacher in North Carolina?
    To teach at the postsecondary level, you typically need at least a master’s degree in psychology or a related field. However, many colleges and universities prefer or require a doctoral degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) for full-time faculty positions.

  • Is it necessary to have teaching experience before becoming a Postsecondary Psychology Teacher?
    While not always required, having prior teaching experience can be beneficial. Many institutions look for candidates who have experience as teaching assistants or who have held adjunct positions.

  • What skills are important for a Postsecondary Psychology Teacher?
    Key skills include strong communication abilities, critical thinking, and the capability to engage and motivate students. A solid understanding of psychological principles and research methods, along with a passion for the subject matter, are also essential.

  • How can I find job openings for Postsecondary Psychology Teachers in North Carolina?
    You can search for job openings on university websites, academic job boards, and platforms like HigherEdJobs, Indeed, or LinkedIn. Networking through professional organizations, attending conferences, and joining relevant forums can also lead to job opportunities.

  • What are the typical job responsibilities of a Postsecondary Psychology Teacher?
    Responsibilities usually include preparing and delivering lectures, developing course materials, evaluating student performance, conducting research, mentoring students, and serving on academic committees.

  • Are there opportunities for advancement in this career?
    Yes, there are opportunities for advancement, especially if you pursue a doctoral degree. Positions such as department chair, program director, or higher administrative roles may become available as you gain experience and contribute to your institution.

  • How can I stay current with developments in the field of psychology?
    You can stay updated by reading academic journals, attending professional conferences, participating in workshops, and joining psychology associations such as the American Psychological Association (APA) or the North Carolina Psychological Association.

  • What is the job outlook for Postsecondary Psychology Teachers in North Carolina?
    The job outlook varies by institution and specific discipline, but as the demand for higher education continues to grow, positions for qualified educators in psychology remain generally positive.

  • What type of institutions hire Postsecondary Psychology Teachers?
    Postsecondary psychology teachers are employed by a range of institutions including community colleges, universities, technical colleges, and online education providers.

  • Can I teach online courses as a Postsecondary Psychology Teacher?
    Yes, many institutions offer online coursework, and those with experience or training in online education technologies may find opportunities to teach remotely, which has become increasingly common in recent years.