Qualifications for Becoming a Professor

The role of a professor is highly specialized and requires rigorous qualifications and experience. Let's explore the necessary steps to enter this fulfilling and demanding profession.

Core Requirements: PhD and Research Experience

For most full-time professor positions, a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) is the minimum requirement. This doctoral degree should be in the specific field of interest or a closely related area. Universities usually prefer candidates from reputable institutions. For instance, a PhD from Southeast Iowa State may not be sufficient for a position at UCLA due to the disparity in reputation and academic standing.

In addition to a PhD, candidates need to exhibit strong research skills and a track record of scholarly contributions. This typically includes publications in peer-reviewed journals, presenting at academic conferences, and disseminating knowledge through other means such as books, online articles, or research collaborations. The level and number of publications required often align with the prestige of the institution and the anticipated level of the position.

Adjunct and Entry-Level Positions

For those looking to gain experience and work towards a full professorship, there are other positions available such as adjunct professors and teaching assistants (TAs). Adjunct professors typically require a master’s degree and may not always have a PhD. However, experience in relevant fields is highly valued. Many adjunct positions require a minimum of one to two years of work experience, indicating a proven track record in the subject matter.

Teaching assistants and tutors are another entry-level role, often filled by graduate students or advanced undergraduates. These positions involve supporting faculty in teaching and grading while gaining firsthand teaching experience. Depending on the university, TAs and tutors might have more structured guidelines or fewer responsibilities compared to adjunct professors.

Unconventional Paths to Professing

While the traditional route involves completing a PhD and securing a full-time position, there are alternative pathways that offer different opportunities. Universities often have a needs-based approach, which allows for the appointment of individuals with relevant professional experience, also known as 'professors for the practice'. These roles focus on applying practical knowledge and experience in their teaching and research, bypassing the traditional academic background.

These roles can include a variety of positions such as teaching support roles, administrative positions, or even departmental support roles. Examples might include someone overseeing work-study programs, teaching basic skills courses, or participating in teaching design initiatives. While these positions can provide valuable experience, they often do not come with clear career advancement paths and can be considered 'dead-end' roles without additional academic qualifications.

Conclusion

While the path to becoming a professor can be challenging, especially in fields like humanities and social sciences, it is quite feasible in more practical fields such as business, engineering, and applied sciences. It requires a combination of academic rigor, practical experience, and a clear understanding of the academic and professional landscape.