The function of a professor at the college or university level is to present in-depth analysis of or training in a particular subject. Depending on the subject matter and grade level of the students, a professor may conduct large lecture classes for basic courses, lead advanced seminars for only a few students, or work with students in laboratories. Many professors at this level carry on research projects and act as consultants to business, industry, and government agencies. They are active in professional societies and write for publications in their field. Those who are department heads also have supervisory and administrative duties.
There are four academic ranks on college and university faculties: instructor, assistant professor, associate professor, and full professor. Beginners usually start as instructors. Education and experience govern advancement to higher rank. Many professors are assisted by part-time assistant instructors, teaching fellows, teaching assistants, and laboratory assistants. These posts are often filled by graduate students working toward advanced degrees.
Over seventy percent of all professors at this level teach in public colleges and universities. About thirty percent work part-time.
Places of Employment and Working Conditions
One of the advantages that college and university professors have is their flexible schedule. They usually spend 12 to 16 hours a week in classes and set aside 3 to 6 office hours a week to assist students on an individual basis. They may also be required to attend faculty meetings. Otherwise, they are free to schedule study, class preparation, and research as they see fit. During the summer and school holidays, they may teach, do research, travel, write, and participate in other activities.
One of the current problems confronting college and university professors is that budget cutbacks are causing many institutions to replace full-time and permanent positions with part-time and temporary ones. Also, in order to advance, college and university professors are under a great deal of pressure to publish their research as books and articles, often leaving them less time to teach.
Qualifications, Education, and Training
A master's degree, which qualifies the professor for instructor rank, is the minimum requirement for college and university teaching positions.
A year of study beyond the master's degree and a year or two of experience as an instructor are usually necessary for assistant professors. Associate professors frequently need a Ph.D. as well as three years or more of college teaching experience.
For a full professorship, a Ph.D. degree, extensive teaching experience at the college and university level, and published articles and books are usually required. Full professors may achieve tenure after a certain number of years, thus being assured of a teaching position for as long as they choose to remain at the school.
Potential and Advancement
The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that the demand for college and university professors will grow by 13% between 2014 and 2024.
Advancement usually depends on advanced study and college teaching experience. Outstanding academic, administrative, or professional work as well as research and publication in a subject can hasten advancement.
Income
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for professors in 2015 was $72,470. Salaries for college and university professors vary by faculty rank, type of institution, and field. In general, faculty in four-year colleges earns more than those teaching in two-year schools.
Many college and university professors supplement their income by consulting, writing, researching, teaching additional courses, or other employment.
Additional Sources of Information
Professional societies in the various subject fields will generally provide information on teaching requirements and employment opportunities in their particular field. Other sources of information are:
- American Council on Education
- American Federation of Professors
- American Association of University Professors
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Related jobs include high school teacher, elementary school teacher, career and technical education teacher, and postsecondary education administrator.
