Salary of a Professor in India

Salary of a Professor in India

published on
Jul 2, 2024
4 Min REad
Table of Content

Choosing a career path that offers both growth potential and financial stability is crucial for young professionals like you. If you have an affinity for academia and are considering a career as a professor, it's essential to understand the salary landscape in India.

 

Exploring the Role of a Professor

As a professor in India, you play a crucial role in shaping the minds of future generations. You are responsible for imparting knowledge, conducting research, and guiding students on their academic journey. Whether you teach at a government institution or a private university, your primary goal is to provide quality education and mentorship.

 

Skills Required For a Professor

  1. Strong Communication Skills
  2. Subject Matter Expertise
  3. Research Skills
  4. Problem-Solving Abilities
  5. Adaptability
  6. Organisation and Time Management Skills
  7. Leadership Abilities
  8. Interpersonal Skills
  9. Critical Thinking Skills
  10. Continuous Learning

Salary of a Professor in India

When it comes to salaries, professors in India can expect varying ranges depending on their experience and qualifications. In government institutions, the salary structure is determined by the University Grants Commission (UGC).

  1. In entry-level positions such as assistant professors, salaries can range from ₹57,700 to ₹1,82,400 per month.
  2. As professors gain experience and move up the ladder, they can earn up to ₹2,18,200 per month as an assistant professor with additional responsibilities under the UGC pay scale.

In private institutions, salaries can differ significantly from those in government institutes. While some private universities offer competitive salaries that are comparable to those of government institutions, others may not provide similar compensation packages. It's essential to research and assess salary structures before considering employment opportunities.

Here's an overview of average monthly salary ranges for professors in both government and private institutions:

Job Role

Government Institutions

Private Institutions

Assistant Professor

₹57,700-₹1.8 lakhs pa

₹6-₹11 lakhs pa

Associate Professor

₹1.3-₹2.14 lakhs pa

₹12-₹24 lakhs pa

Professor

₹1.4-₹2.18 lakhs pa

₹25 lakhs and above pa

Salary of an Assistant Professor

As an assistant professor in India, your salary can differ based on the type of institution you work for. In government institutions, the UGC pay scale determines your salary. On the other hand, salaries in private institutions may vary significantly.

In government colleges or universities, assistant professors can expect a monthly salary ranging from ₹57,700 to ₹1,82,400 under the UGC pay scale. However, in private institutions, the salary range for assistant professors can be more varied and dependent on factors such as the reputation and funding of the institution.

Factors Affecting Salaries

Several factors influence the salaries of professors in India. These include:

  1. Experience: The number of years you have spent in academia can impact your earning potential. With more experience, professors often qualify for higher positions and receive better remuneration.
  2. Qualifications: Higher educational qualifications, such as a Ph.D., publications, research papers, or awards, can contribute to higher salaries.
  3. Institution Type: Government institutions typically have defined pay scales set by bodies like the UGC. Private institutions may have varying salary structures based on their financial capabilities.
  4. Location: Salaries may vary depending on the location of the institution. Metropolitan cities generally offer higher salaries compared to smaller towns or rural areas.

How to Become a Professor in India

  1. Earn a bachelor's degree.
  2. Obtain a master's degree in the relevant discipline.
  3. Pursue a Ph.D., which is often considered essential for faculty positions in most institutions.
  4. Engage in research activities and publish papers to establish your expertise.
  5. Seek opportunities to gain teaching experience as a teaching assistant or lecturer.
  6. Qualify for the National Eligibility Tests (NET) conducted by UGC or other recognised bodies for eligibility as an assistant professor.
  7. Start applying for assistant professor positions in colleges or universities.

Also read - How to Become a University Professor in India: The Ultimate Guide

Upskilling Opportunities for Professors

Continuous learning plays a crucial role in academic careers, allowing professors to enhance their teaching skills and command better salaries. Here are some relevant certification courses that can help you upskill as a professor:

  1. Certificate Course in Teaching Methodologies
  2. Certification in Online Teaching
  3. Research Methodology Courses
  4. Subject-specific Certification
  5. Leadership and Administration in Higher Education

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Pursuing a Teaching Career

In conclusion, the salary of a professor in India can vary based on factors like experience, qualifications, institution type, and location. By upskilling and enhancing your profile through relevant certification courses, you can increase your chances of becoming a successful professor. Reach out to the experts at WiZR today for further guidance.

 

FAQs

1. How much do IIT professors earn?

IIT professors are among the highest-paid in India, with salaries ranging from ₹15 lakhs to ₹30 lakhs per annum.

2. Are there any specific skills needed to become a professor?

While subject expertise is important, other essential skills for becoming a successful professor include effective communication, research abilities, critical thinking, and mentoring skills.

3. How many years do assistant professors have to wait for a promotion?

The waiting period for assistant professors seeking promotion in government institutions usually ranges from 4 to 6 years based on performance and eligibility criteria.

4. Which institutes pay the highest salaries to professors?

Top-tier government institutions like IITs and IIMs generally offer higher salaries compared to private institutions.

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