What Are The Responsibilities of a Professor?

Some of the day-to-day responsibilities for professors include: Teaching courses — Even within their chosen field, professors may teach a variety of subjects. For example, a math professor might teach courses in algebra, calculus, statistics, geometry, and differential equations. Helping students increase their knowledge — Professors help their students improve their career skills and achieve their degree, certificate, or certification. They also grade papers and tests, assess each student’s progress, and advise students about which classes they should take based on their educational goals. Developing curriculum — Professors create and implement different instructional plans (also frequently referred to as course outlines or syllabi) for students’ areas of study, which must meet the department and college’s standards. Part of this also involves planning different lessons and assignments. Researching — This means conducting experiments to stay on top of innovations and advancing knowledge in their field. This also involves publishing original research in books and academic journals. Supervising graduate students — If a graduate student is pursuing a doctoral degree, professors help make sure they’re on track. Serving on committees — These committees review and recommend policies (including budgetary items) and help make recommendations for hiring and promotion decisions within their department. Compared to professors, teachers can work outside university settings, including elementary, junior high, and high school settings. Teachers are also only required to have a bachelor’s or master’s degree and focus on providing students with the foundational knowledge they’ll need to pursue a postsecondary degree, depending on where they teach. Comparatively, most professors need a Ph.D. in their field.

What Are The Differences Between a Professor and a Lecturer?

Although lecturers and professors work in similar settings teaching postsecondary students, they typically have several different responsibilities and daily tasks. Typical lecturer duties include: Teaching a single course via classes, seminars, and lectures, versus a wide variety of courses taught by tenured professors. Using their (often significant) career experience to help students learn. Creating course syllabi. Outlining class structure. Contributing to the development of the department to which they belong. Advising students about not only their education but also on a professional level. Lecturers also generally have primary careers outside the classroom and teach on a part-time basis. However, some lecturers may work full-time at different learning institutions. If you’re a lecturer who wants to eventually have a career as a full-time, tenured professor who teaches many different subjects, you’ll likely need a Ph.D. in your field while working part-time for several years.

What Is an Adjunct Professor?

For the most part, adjunct professors — also known as contract, contingent, and non-tenured professors — are hired by colleges and universities on a part-time, contractual basis. Compared to tenured professors, who cannot be fired without just cause, such as incompetence, insubordination, fraud, or the abuse of other school guidelines and rules, adjunct professors can be let go at any time and for just about any reason. On the other hand, while adjunct professors teach many of the same courses as full-time professors, they’re often not required to perform as much academic research. Adjunct professors are also often paid less than full-time professors. Still, some benefits may outweigh their lower pay, such as not having to: Publish their research findings in academic journals and books. Serve on committees. Oversee doctoral students. Today in the U.S., adjunct professors outnumber tenured professors in higher education. With these details in mind, this guide focuses on the pathway to becoming a full-time, tenured professor.

What Education Does a Professor Need?

Educational requirements for professors can vary by state and institution. With this said, if you want to teach part-time as an adjunct professor at a community college, you might only need to obtain your master’s degree, along with significant career experience. On the other hand, if you’d like to teach at a four-year university or college and follow a tenure track, you’ll likely need a Ph.D. to work as a professor. These requirements are in addition to relevant certifications and licensing, many of which involve additional instruction and testing. These education options can help give you the skills you’ll need to become a successful professor. They can: Establish yourself as an expert and a leader in your field. Help you match your education with your real-world experiences. Provide you with the skill set you need to design a curriculum and instruct a class. Allow you to grow as an effective, innovative teacher. Allow you to create engaging, meaningful, and memorable courses. With these details in mind, let’s dive in and take a closer look at the skills you’ll need to become a successful professor.

What Skills Does a Professor Need?

Some of the core skills you’ll need to successfully work as a professor include: High knowledge level — To ensure students receive the education they need to pursue their fields of study, professors need to have intimate knowledge of their subject matter. Verbal and communication skills — Professors are responsible for imparting crucial knowledge and skills to their students, which requires excellent verbal skills and the ability to communicate effectively. Organization — Between instructing students, coming up with course materials, researching, and staying abreast of recent changes in their field, professors must have solid organization skills to remain on track. Positive personality traits — To become a successful professor, you’ll need to be self-confident, enthusiastic about your field of study, and have a willingness to help students succeed. Interactive skills — Professors interact with a wide variety of individuals daily, including other students and faculty. Flexibility — As a professor, you’ll need to effectively communicate with students who have a wide range of learning styles and be open to different approaches. Commitment — Professors need commitment to their students, including a sincere desire to teach, doing what needs to be done to help them obtain their degree, and the ability to accept criticism and implement changes accordingly.

How Much Does a Professor Make?

The U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS) reports that the 2020 median pay for professors is $80,790 per year. Some of the factors that can influence how much a professor earns include: -Your level of education (master’s versus Ph.D.) -Which subjects you instruct -Whether you’re adjunct or tenured -If you work at a community college or a four-year university -If you work at a public or private university -Years of relevant job experience

What Is the Projected Job Growth?

According to the BLS, the job outlook for professors and postsecondary teachers is positive. Between 2019 and 2029, the field is expected to grow by 9%, which is much faster than average and translates into an additional 121,500 jobs. Factors driving this change include: -An increase in students pursuing higher education -State and local government budgets -An increased number of open positions for part-time, rather than full-time, professors

Where Do Professors Work?

Professors can work in public or private universities to teach students at the college level. They may work for community colleges, online colleges, or other trade schools as well. Being a professor doesn’t mean you are only able to teach in traditional classrooms—there may be opportunities for you to take your teaching passion and instruct students in unique ways

EDUCATION CAREER GUIDES

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OVERVIEW

What is a College Professor?

A college professor, also known as a postsecondary teacher, is an expert in a specific academic field who instructs students at the college or university level. Their role extends far beyond the classroom. Professors are scholars, researchers, and mentors who contribute to the body of knowledge in their discipline. They are responsible for creating curricula, evaluating student performance, and guiding students through their academic journeys. The job of a professor combines teaching, mentorship, research, and service to the academic community, making it a dynamic and intellectually stimulating career.

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RESPONSIBILITIES

What Does a College Professor Do?

The daily life of a college professor is a blend of various responsibilities that support their institution's educational mission. While teaching is a central component, their work involves much more.

Instruction and curriculum development. Professors design and teach courses in their area of expertise. This includes creating detailed syllabi, preparing lectures and presentations, developing assignments, and curating reading materials to ensure students receive a comprehensive education.
Student assessment. A key duty is evaluating student progress. Professors grade papers, projects, and exams, providing constructive feedback to help students improve their understanding and skills.
Holding office hours. Professors set aside specific times to meet with students one-on-one. During office hours, they answer questions about course material, offer academic advice, discuss career paths, and provide mentorship.
Conducting research. Many professors are active researchers who work to expand knowledge in their respective fields. This can involve designing experiments, analyzing data, writing scholarly articles for publication in academic journals, and authoring books.
Presenting at conferences. To share their research findings and stay current with developments in their discipline, professors often attend and present at national and international academic conferences. This is a vital part of scholarly engagement.
Serving on committees. Professors contribute to the governance and administration of their university. They serve on various committees that may oversee admissions, curriculum standards, faculty hiring, or strategic planning.
Advising student groups. Many professors act as faculty advisors for student clubs and organizations related to their department, offering guidance and support for extracurricular academic activities.

Where Does a College Professor Work?

College professors work in a variety of postsecondary educational settings. The environment can shape the focus of their work, whether it's more teaching-intensive or research-oriented.

Four-year colleges and universities: These institutions offer bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. Professors at large research universities often have heavier research responsibilities, while those at smaller liberal arts colleges may have a greater focus on teaching and mentorship.
Community colleges: Also known as junior or two-year colleges, these institutions primarily offer associate degrees and certificate programs. Professors here focus almost exclusively on teaching and student success.
Professional schools: This category includes medical schools, law schools, and business schools, where professors are experts in their professional fields and train students for specific careers.
Online universities: With the rise of distance learning, many professors now teach courses entirely online, interacting with students through digital platforms.

EDUCATION & BEST DEGREES

How Do I Become a College Professor?

Becoming a college professor involves several key steps. Here’s a clear path to help guide your journey:

1. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree

Start by pursuing a four-year bachelor’s degree in the academic field you wish to specialize in. Select a major closely related to the subject you want to teach.

2. Pursue a Graduate Degree

After completing your undergraduate studies, continue with graduate education. Most community colleges require a master’s degree, while four-year colleges and universities typically require a doctoral degree (Ph.D.) in your chosen field

3. Complete Doctoral Studies

Enroll in a Ph.D. program, which usually takes four to eight years. This stage involves advanced coursework, passing comprehensive exams, conducting original research, and writing a dissertation. Many doctoral students also gain teaching experience during this time by working as teaching assistants or teaching introductory courses.

4. Gain Postdoctoral Experience (Optional but Common)

After earning your Ph.D., consider a postdoctoral fellowship. This temporary research position helps you build a publication record, deepen your expertise, and prepare for faculty roles.

5. Seek Academic Positions

Apply for faculty positions at colleges or universities. Tenure-track positions are highly competitive and may require a strong record of research, publications, and teaching.

6. Continue Professional Development

Once employed, continue developing your skills and knowledge. Engage in ongoing research, attend academic conferences, publish your work, and participate in departmental service to progress in your career and work toward tenure.

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Educational Leadership – M.S.

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Courses: 13 total courses in this program.

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Curriculum and Instruction – M.S.

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An online master's degree for those who have educational experience and are looking to further their careers with a graduate program focused on curriculum development and design.

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Help schools create engaging, meaningful, and memorable learning experiences to improve learning outcomes for all students with this M.S. degree.

How Much Does a College Professor Make?

$83,980

Salaries for college professors can vary significantly based on factors such as the type of institution (public vs. private, two-year vs. four-year), the professor's rank (assistant, associate, or full professor), the academic field, and geographic location.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for postsecondary teachers was $83,980 in May 2024. Salaries often differ by discipline. For example, professors in fields like law, engineering, and health specialties typically earn more than their counterparts in the humanities and fine arts. Furthermore, professors at large research universities generally have higher earning potential than those at smaller liberal arts colleges or community colleges.

What Is the Job Outlook for a College Professor?

The job outlook for college professors reflects a competitive but growing field. The BLS projects that postsecondary teaching positions will grow by 7% from 2024 to 2034, which is much faster than the average for all occupations.

This demand is driven by rising student enrollment in colleges and universities. As more people pursue higher education to gain the skills needed for the modern workforce, more professors will be needed to teach them. However, the academic career market is highly competitive, especially for full-time, tenure-track positions. Many universities rely on part-time adjunct instructors, and the number of Ph.D. graduates often exceeds the number of available tenure-track openings. Aspiring professors should be prepared for a challenging job search and may need to be flexible regarding location and type of institution.

SKILLS

What Skills Does a College Professor Need?

Success in academia requires a unique combination of intellectual, interpersonal, and practical skills. Beyond deep subject matter expertise, a great professor needs:

Expert knowledge: A comprehensive and current understanding of their academic discipline is foundational.
Strong communication skills: The ability to explain complex topics clearly and engagingly, both in writing and in oral presentations, is critical.
Critical thinking: Professors must be able to analyze information, evaluate arguments, and conduct rigorous research.
Patience and empathy: Understanding and responding to the diverse needs and learning styles of students is essential for effective teaching and mentorship.
Writing skills: A significant portion of the job involves writing research articles, grant proposals, and feedback for students.
Research skills: Proficiency in designing studies, collecting and analyzing data, and interpreting results is necessary for scholarly work.
Time management and organization: Balancing teaching, research, and service commitments requires excellent organizational skills.

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