Teaching for Physicians: Compensation & Getting Started
Based on data from 5 physicians on OffCall
What Physicians Earn from Teaching
Typical Compensation: $35,000–$78,000/year
- Top earners: $78,000+
- Time Commitment: 2–15 hours per week typically Data reflects 2025 responses from OffCall physicians
What Is Teaching?
Teaching as a physician side gig typically involves lecturing, precepting, curriculum development, or mentorship in medical schools, residency programs, nursing programs, or online education platforms. The work may be in-person or virtual and includes a mix of formal instruction, clinical supervision, and small-group discussions.
Physicians bring immense value as educators, translating complex concepts into real-world clinical understanding. Clinical experience, communication skills, and a collaborative mindset are all assets in teaching. Many doctors find it professionally rewarding to shape future clinicians and reconnect with the fundamentals of medicine.
A common misconception is that teaching is low-paid or volunteer work. While some roles are stipend-based, many teaching gigs offer steady income and predictable schedules—especially when done consistently or through academic partnerships.
Who This Side Gig Works Best For
Ideal Candidates:
- Physicians with prior academic or teaching experience
- Strong communication and mentorship skills
- Comfortable giving feedback and speaking to groups
- Flexible availability during academic hours or evenings
Less Ideal For:
- Physicians who prefer fast-paced clinical environments
- Those uncomfortable with public speaking or documentation-heavy roles
- Physicians needing high-compensation gigs for limited hours
How to Get Started
To start teaching, explore roles at local medical schools, physician assistant programs, residency clinics, or online platforms like Osmosis, AMBOSS, or Lecturio. Many programs welcome part-time faculty, preceptors, or lecturers for specific courses or rotations.
Highlight past teaching, leadership, or mentorship experience on your CV. Consider joining teaching hospitals as volunteer faculty initially, then transition into paid roles. Virtual teaching roles are expanding, particularly for board prep and continuing medical education.
What to Charge
Rates vary widely depending on institution type and teaching format. Based on OffCall data, teaching 2–15 hours per week can generate $5,700–$78,000/year. Lecturing or course design typically pays more than small-group facilitation or precepting.
Clarify whether payment is per hour, per session, or per semester. Watch for roles that expect significant prep or grading time without compensation.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Underestimating prep time: Teaching requires preparation, especially for new topics or online delivery—factor this into your schedule.
- Accepting vague pay terms: Understand how and when you're paid, especially in semester-based roles that may not align with calendar months.
- Not valuing your time: Avoid volunteer roles that ask for high engagement under the guise of prestige—your time and expertise are valuable.
Compare Your Side Gig Income
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