Career Development Grid

Atmospheric, Earth, Marine, and Space Sciences Teachers are postsecondary educators who teach courses in atmospheric science, earth science, marine science, and space science. They are responsible for developing lesson plans, delivering lectures, leading discussions and labs, and grading assignments and exams.
To become a postsecondary teacher in this field, you will typically need a Ph.D. in atmospheric science, earth science, marine science, or a related field. However, some community colleges and vocational schools may hire instructors with a master’s degree or relevant work experience.
The typical job duties and responsibilities of a postsecondary teacher in this field include developing and delivering course materials, conducting research and publishing papers, advising and mentoring students, and participating in departmental and university committees.
The earning potential for postsecondary teachers in this field varies depending on the level of education, experience, and institution. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for postsecondary teachers in atmospheric, earth, marine, and space sciences was $97,340 in May 2020.
Opportunities for career advancement in this field include becoming a department chair, a dean, or a provost. Additionally, postsecondary teachers may advance their careers by conducting research and publishing papers in prestigious journals, which can lead to tenure and promotion.
The biggest challenges facing people in this career include increasing competition for tenure-track positions, securing research funding, and balancing teaching and research responsibilities. To overcome these challenges, it is important to network with colleagues, publish research papers, and continuously improve teaching skills.
The best ways to gain experience and build a network in this field include attending conferences, participating in research projects, and collaborating with colleagues. Additionally, seeking out mentorship from experienced faculty members can be helpful in navigating the academic landscape.
The current job prospects for postsecondary teachers in atmospheric, earth, marine, and space sciences are good, with a projected job growth of 9% from 2019 to 2029. However, competition for tenure-track positions is expected to remain high.
The most important skills or qualities someone needs to succeed in this career include strong communication skills, a passion for teaching and research, and the ability to work independently and collaboratively.
This career is in demand in sectors such as academia, government agencies, and research institutions.
A common misconception about this career is that it is only for people who want to become researchers. However, many postsecondary teachers in this field also

To become an Atmospheric, Earth, Marine, and Space Sciences Teacher at the postsecondary level, the following education and training are typically required:
1. Bachelor’s Degree: A minimum of a bachelor’s degree in atmospheric science, earth science, marine science, or a related field is required.
2. Master’s Degree: A master’s degree in atmospheric science, earth science, marine science, or a related field is preferred for teaching at the postsecondary level.
3. Teaching Certification: A teaching certification or licensure is required to teach at the postsecondary level.
4. Work Experience: Prior work experience in the field of atmospheric science, earth science, marine science, or a related field is preferred.
5. Continuing Education: Postsecondary teachers are expected to engage in continuing education to stay current with developments in their field and improve their teaching skills.
6. Research Experience: Many postsecondary teachers are also expected to conduct research in their field and publish their findings in academic journals.
Overall, becoming a postsecondary teacher in atmospheric science, earth science, marine science, or a related field requires a strong educational background, work experience, and a commitment to ongoing learning and professional development.

Atmospheric, Earth, Marine, and Space Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary are responsible for teaching courses in their respective fields to college or university students. Some typical job duties and responsibilities of someone in this career may include:
1. Preparing and delivering lectures, demonstrations, and presentations to students on topics related to atmospheric, earth, marine, and space sciences.
2. Developing course materials such as syllabi, assignments, and exams.
3. Evaluating and grading students’ work, including assignments, exams, and projects.
4. Conducting research and publishing papers in their respective fields.
5. Advising and mentoring students on academic and career-related issues.
6. Collaborating with other faculty members and researchers on interdisciplinary projects.
7. Participating in departmental and university committees and activities.
8. Keeping up-to-date with developments in their fields by attending conferences, workshops, and other professional development opportunities.
9. Engaging in outreach activities to promote the sciences and encourage student interest and engagement.
Overall, the role of an Atmospheric, Earth, Marine, and Space Sciences Teacher, Postsecondary is to educate and inspire the next generation of scientists in their respective fields.

The earning potential for Atmospheric, Earth, Marine, and Space Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary can vary depending on factors such as education level, experience, location, and type of institution.
In the short term, postsecondary teachers in this field can expect to earn an average salary of around $70,000 to $90,000 per year, according to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, this can vary widely depending on the institution and the level of experience and education.
In the long term, postsecondary teachers in this field can earn significantly more, especially if they advance to more senior positions or take on additional responsibilities such as research or administrative roles. According to the BLS, the top 10% of postsecondary teachers in this field earn more than $170,000 per year.
It’s worth noting that earning potential can also vary depending on the specific area of atmospheric, earth, marine, or space sciences that a teacher specializes in, as well as the demand for that area of expertise. Overall, however, postsecondary teaching in this field can offer a solid earning potential both in the short and long term.

The opportunities for career advancement in the field of Atmospheric, Earth, Marine, and Space Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary include:
1. Advancement to administrative positions: Postsecondary teachers can move up to administrative positions such as department chairs, deans, or provosts, which involve managing academic programs, budgets, and personnel.
2. Research opportunities: Postsecondary teachers can conduct research in their field and publish their findings in academic journals, which can lead to recognition and advancement within the academic community.
3. Consulting and industry positions: Postsecondary teachers can also use their expertise to consult for government agencies, private companies, or nonprofit organizations, or work in industry positions that require knowledge of atmospheric, earth, marine, or space sciences.
4. Tenure and promotion: Postsecondary teachers who meet certain criteria for teaching, research, and service may be eligible for tenure, which provides job security and the opportunity for promotion to higher ranks, such as associate or full professor.
5. Continuing education and professional development: Postsecondary teachers can continue their education and professional development by attending conferences, workshops, and seminars, or by pursuing advanced degrees in their field, which can lead to increased job opportunities and higher salaries.

The biggest challenges facing people in the career of Atmospheric, Earth, Marine, and Space Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary include:
1. Keeping up with advancements in technology and research: Since the field of atmospheric, earth, marine, and space sciences is constantly evolving, it is important for teachers to stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in technology and research. This can be challenging, but can be overcome by attending conferences, workshops, and seminars, reading scientific journals, and collaborating with other professionals in the field.
2. Maintaining student engagement: Students in this field may find the subject matter challenging and may struggle to stay engaged in the classroom. Teachers can overcome this challenge by using innovative teaching methods, incorporating real-world examples, and providing hands-on learning experiences.
3. Balancing research and teaching responsibilities: Many postsecondary teachers are also involved in research, which can make it challenging to balance teaching responsibilities with research obligations. Teachers can overcome this challenge by prioritizing their time, setting clear boundaries, and delegating tasks when necessary.
4. Dealing with diverse student populations: Postsecondary teachers may encounter students with diverse cultural, linguistic, and educational backgrounds. Teachers can overcome this challenge by being sensitive to cultural differences, providing support for students who may need extra help, and creating an inclusive classroom environment.
In summary, the biggest challenges facing people in the career of Atmospheric, Earth, Marine, and Space Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary are keeping up with advancements in technology and research, maintaining student engagement, balancing research and teaching responsibilities, and dealing with diverse student populations. These challenges can be overcome by staying informed, using innovative teaching methods, prioritizing time, being sensitive to cultural differences, and creating an inclusive classroom environment.

1. Gain Teaching Experience: To become a postsecondary teacher in atmospheric, earth, marine, and space sciences, you need to have teaching experience. You can gain this experience by working as a teaching assistant or tutor while pursuing your undergraduate or graduate degree. This will help you develop your teaching skills and understand the dynamics of a classroom.
2. Networking: Attend conferences, workshops, and seminars to network with other professionals in the field. This will help you build relationships with other teachers, researchers, and industry professionals. You can also join professional organizations such as the American Geophysical Union or the National Science Teachers Association to connect with other professionals in your field.
3. Research Experience: To become a postsecondary teacher, you need to have research experience in atmospheric, earth, marine, and space sciences. You can gain this experience by working on research projects with your professors, participating in internships, or conducting your own research.
4. Publish Research Papers: Publishing research papers in peer-reviewed journals is an excellent way to build your reputation as an expert in your field. This will also help you gain recognition and credibility among your peers.
5. Attend Workshops and Conferences: Attend workshops and conferences to stay updated on the latest research and teaching methods. This will help you improve your teaching skills and stay up-to-date with the latest trends in atmospheric, earth, marine, and space sciences.
6. Collaborate with other Professionals: Collaborating with other professionals in your field is an excellent way to gain new insights and ideas. You can collaborate with other teachers, researchers, and industry professionals to develop new teaching methods or research projects.
7. Seek Feedback: Seek feedback from your students, colleagues, and mentors to improve your teaching skills. This will help you identify areas where you need to improve and develop strategies to address these areas.

The current job prospects for Atmospheric, Earth, Marine, and Space Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary are generally good. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of postsecondary teachers is projected to grow 9% from 2019 to 2029, which is faster than the average for all occupations. However, specific job prospects for this particular field may vary depending on the location and the demand for these subjects in the academic institutions.
In the future, the demand for Atmospheric, Earth, Marine, and Space Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary is expected to continue growing as more students pursue degrees in these fields, and as research and development in these areas continue to expand. Additionally, the increasing importance of environmental issues and climate change may also drive demand for experts in these fields. However, the availability of funding for academic institutions and research may also impact the job prospects for this field.

To succeed as an Atmospheric, Earth, Marine, and Space Sciences Teacher at the postsecondary level, the following skills and qualities are important:
1. Strong Communication Skills: The ability to communicate complex scientific concepts in a clear and concise manner is essential for postsecondary teachers. They must be able to effectively communicate with students, colleagues, and other professionals in the field.
2. Expertise in the Field: Postsecondary teachers must have a deep understanding of the atmospheric, earth, marine, and space sciences and be able to stay up-to-date with the latest research and developments in the field.
3. Teaching Skills: The ability to design and deliver effective lesson plans, manage a classroom, and provide constructive feedback to students is critical for success as a postsecondary teacher.
4. Research Skills: Many postsecondary teachers are also involved in research and must be able to design and conduct experiments, analyze data, and publish their findings.
5. Patience and Persistence: Teaching can be a challenging and demanding profession, and postsecondary teachers must be patient and persistent in their efforts to help students learn and succeed.
6. Flexibility: Postsecondary teachers must be able to adapt to the needs of their students and the changing demands of the field.
7. Critical Thinking: Postsecondary teachers must be able to think critically and creatively, and be able to encourage their students to do the same.

The different sectors or industries where Atmospheric, Earth, Marine, and Space Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary are in demand are:
1. Colleges and Universities
2. Research Institutions
3. Government Agencies
4. Private Consulting Firms
5. Aerospace and Defense Companies
6. Environmental Consulting Firms
7. Energy and Utility Companies
8. Non-Profit Organizations
9. Museums and Science Centers
10. Weather Forecasting and Analysis Companies.

Misconception: Atmospheric, Earth, Marine, and Space Sciences Teachers only teach about weather.
Reality: While weather is a part of the curriculum, these teachers also cover a wide range of topics related to the Earth and its atmosphere. This includes geology, oceanography, climate change, and space science. They may also conduct research in their field and work with students on research projects.
Misconception: This career has limited job opportunities.
Reality: While the number of job openings may not be as high as some other professions, there is a steady demand for atmospheric, earth, marine, and space sciences teachers at the postsecondary level. In addition to teaching positions at colleges and universities, there are also opportunities to work in research institutions, government agencies, and private companies.
Misconception: Only people with a PhD can become postsecondary teachers in this field.
Reality: While having a PhD is certainly an advantage, it is not always a requirement for teaching positions at the postsecondary level. Many colleges and universities also hire instructors with a master’s degree or extensive professional experience in the field. However, having a PhD can lead to more opportunities for research and higher-paying positions.