Watch CBS News

L.A.'s Mathematical Science Teaching Jobs Equate To Profitable Careers

More mathematical science teachers work in California than any other place in the nation, reports the Bureau of Labor Statistics. They are employed by institutions of higher learning, where they equip students with what is needed to launch careers in varied industries, including business, computer science and the natural sciences. In Los Angeles, top scholars bring home annual paychecks nearing $150,000.

LA-Edu
(Photo Courtesy of Dr. Debasree Raychaudhuri)

"Full-time work as a post-secondary teacher earns one a very good salary, starting at $65,000," said Dr. Debasree Raychaudhuri, a professor of mathematics at California State University, Los Angeles (CSULA). "Additionally, post-secondary institutions in L.A. are always in great need of part-time teachers, which means one can obtain work and experience in teaching until they find something more permanent."

Raychardhuri said CSULA is industrious in its mission to prepare the next wave of post-secondary mathematical science instructors.

"We offer our graduate students rigorous academic and professional training that includes job-search techniques and tips," said Raychardhuri, who earned her Ph.D. in cognition theories in advanced mathematics from Simon Fraser University. "We've also recently launched a yearlong college instruction course sequence that familiarized students with administrative, teaching and learning strategies, while providing them with a support network, once they are employed as teaching assistants."

How has a teacher's role changed since 2010?

"Most post-secondary teachers now need to teach their students basic skills, such as good study habits, perseverance and time-management, in addition to remedying the mathematics skills they lack."

How will an instructor's position transition by 2022?

"I expect to see more technological tools, cross-disciplinary approaches and project-based learning methods being used."

What is the best way to prepare for a sustainable career?

"I advise aspiring post-secondary instructors to start by getting the requisite degree and experience in teaching and professional development, and be open to adapting to the demands of changing times, such as technological advances and the influx of students with specific needs."

What is your message to endeavoring teachers?

"This is a very competitive field, which means they will need to prove why they are the best fit for the position."

Sharon Raiford Bush is an award-winning journalist who covers topics of social interest in greater Los Angeles. Some news articles she has authored have been archived by the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, DC. Sharon also contributes to Examiner.com.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.