Earning a Ph.D. can be a long and difficult process requiring a lot of discipline. As such, careers that demand the most education and specialized experience tend to command better salaries and benefits. Careers requiring Ph.D.'s fall into this category. Many Ph.D. careers are reporting average median wages well over $100,000 a year.
Physicists and Astronomers
Physicists and astronomers spend their time studying all things related to the universe. This includes everything from the vast emptiness of space down to the smallest subatomic particles. Most positions require physicists and astronomers to have a Ph.D., which takes an average of five to seven years to complete. As of May 2010, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported the median annual wages for physicists and astronomers at $106,370. However, the top 10 percent of earners made upward of $166,400.
Biochemists and Biophysicists
Biochemists and biophysicists focus on studying both the chemical and physical properties of living things. While some entry-level positions within this profession will accept candidates with bachelor's or master's degrees, the majority of positions require a Ph.D. Doctorate degrees are particularly important for positions in research and development. As of May 2010, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the annual median wage for both biochemists and biophysicists at $79,390. The top 10 percent in this profession earn upwards of $142,420. )
Postsecondary teachers are responsible for teaching students beyond the high school level. While some community colleges may hire postsecondary teachers with only a master's degree, most four-year colleges and universities require teachers to have a Ph.D. As of May 2010, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the annual median wage of postsecondary teachers at $62,050. While this median wage is lower than many other Ph.D. occupations, the top 10 percent working in this profession make upwards of $130,510.
Mathematicians fall into two categories. Applied mathematicians use their knowledge to solve real-world problems. In contrast, theoretical mathematicians use abstract theories to advance mathematical knowledge. Entry-level positions in mathematics require a minimum of a bachelor's degree. However, more advanced positions require a minimum of a master's degree. A Ph.D. is required for mathematicians working in private industry or teaching at the college level. As of May 2010, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the median annual wage for mathematicians at $99,380, with the top 10 percent earning upward of $153,620.
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- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Physicists and Astronomers Summary
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Physicists and Astronomers Pay
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: How to Become a Biochemist or Biophysicist
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Biochemists and Biophysicists Pay
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: How to Become a Postsecondary Teacher
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Postsecondary Teachers Pay
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: How to Become a Mathematician
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Mathematicians Pay
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