As of May 01, 2026, the average salary for a Theatre Professor, Associate in the United States is $80,800 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $39.
However, a Theatre Professor, Associate's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Theatre Professor, Associate's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location, education and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Theatre Professor, Associate's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| College Instructor - Drama | 0-0 years | $64,484 |
| College Assistant Professor - Drama | 0-0 years | $71,342 |
| Theatre Professor, Associate | 0-0 years | $80,795 |
| College Professor - Drama | 0-0 years | $96,697 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Theatre Professor, Associates. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Leadership | 12.5% |
| Academic Advising | 2.08% |
| Computer Science | 2.08% |
Your level of education can impact your salary potential. While many Theatre Professor, Associates enter the field with a Bachelor's Degree degree, higher education can lead to more specialized and higher-paying roles.
According to our 100% employer-reported salary data, the median salary for a Theatre Professor, Associate with a Bachelor's Degree is between $74,364 and $83,737).
Theatre Professor, Associate Salaries by Degree Level
| Degree Level | % of user with this level of education |
|---|---|
| No Diploma | 15.4% |
| High School | 69.2% |
| Associates | 15.4% |
| Bachelors | 15.4% |
| Masters | 69.2% |
| Doctorate | 15.4% |
Understanding how a Theatre Professor, Associate's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on May 01, 2026Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Theatre Professor, Associate, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.
| Next Step Role | Estimate Salary | Projected Raise |
|---|---|---|
| College Professor - Architecture | $116,100 | 44% |
| College Professor - Biology | $101,600 | 26% |
| College Professor - Chemical Engineering | $140,800 | 74% |
| College Professor - Civil Engineering | $140,500 | 74% |
Salaries for a Theatre Professor, Associate can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $55,867 in 2023 to around $53,962 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Theatre Professor, Associate salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
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| 2023 | $55,867 |
| 2024 | $55,153 |
| 2025 | $53,962 |
| 2026 |
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| 2027 |
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Professors, including Theatre Professors at the associate level, may receive bonuses, though this varies by institution. Salaries typically range from $67,390 to $108,800, with a median of $80,340. Bonuses, if offered, can enhance overall compensation, but specific details depend on the university's policies and funding.
To become a college theater professor, you typically need at least a master's degree in theater. For teaching at a four-year university, pursuing a doctoral degree or a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) is often required. Salaries for theater professors range from $67,390 to $108,800, with a median salary of $80,340, reflecting the level of education and experience.
The level of Associate Professor corresponds to Academic Level 13A. To be eligible, an Assistant Professor must have completed three years of service at Academic Level 12 and hold a Ph.D. The salary range for an Associate Professor typically falls between $67,390 and $108,800, with a mid-salary of $80,340.
The highest paid employee at Duke University is former men's basketball head coach Mike Krzyzewski, earning nearly $9 million. In comparison, the salary range for a Theatre Professor, Associate is between $67,390 and $108,800, with a mid-salary of $80,340.
As of January 24, 2025, the salary for a Theatre Professor, Associate in the United States ranges from $67,390 to $108,800 annually, with a median salary of $80,340. This reflects the typical earnings for this academic position across various institutions.
Not all professors have PhDs. In fields like fine arts, social work, and law, many hold an MFA, MSW, or JD instead. While some may have doctoral degrees, the title Professor signifies a higher rank. In terms of compensation, Theatre Professors earn between $67,390 and $108,800, with a median salary of $80,340, reflecting their expertise and experience.
Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.
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