How to Become a Postsecondary Teacher (Driving Dreams, Igniting Ideas!)
If you’ve ever been inspired by the idea of shaping minds and influencing future generations, or if you’re curious about what it takes to become a postsecondary teacher, you’ve come to the right place.
In this guide, we will detail the EXACT steps you need to follow to kickstart your career as a postsecondary teacher. We’ll discuss:
- The necessary skills and qualifications.
- The education path that will lead you to success.
- Strategies for securing a position as a postsecondary teacher.
So, whether you’re a teaching novice or an educational enthusiast looking to level up, stay tuned.
We’re about to decipher the roadmap to becoming a postsecondary teacher.
Let’s get started!
Steps to Become a Postsecondary Teacher
Step 1: Obtain a Bachelor’s Degree in Your Area of Expertise
If you wish to become a Postsecondary Teacher, the first step is to obtain a bachelor’s degree in your desired field of expertise.
This could be anything from English, History, Physics, Mathematics, or any other subject that you are passionate about and wish to teach at a college or university level.
During your undergraduate years, you should focus on maintaining a strong academic record and gaining a deep understanding of your chosen field.
It’s also important to take courses that develop your communication and critical thinking skills, as these will be crucial for effective teaching.
In addition to your core course work, it would be beneficial to gain some teaching experience.
Many undergraduate programs offer opportunities to tutor or assist in teaching lower-level courses.
This type of hands-on experience can help you determine whether a career in postsecondary education is right for you.
Remember, the bachelor’s degree is just the first step.
Most institutions require postsecondary teachers to have a master’s or doctorate degree in their field of expertise.
However, earning a bachelor’s degree in your chosen field is the necessary foundational step to start your journey.
Step 2: Pursue a Graduate Degree (Master’s or Doctorate)
If you’re looking to become a Postsecondary Teacher, furthering your education beyond a bachelor’s degree is essential.
A master’s degree in your chosen subject area may qualify you for community college teaching positions.
However, most 4-year colleges and universities require their faculty to hold a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) or a similar terminal degree in their field.
Your graduate studies will typically focus on your chosen subject matter, but you will also need to take courses in pedagogy and education theory.
Some graduate programs also offer courses in higher education administration and academic writing, which can be beneficial for prospective postsecondary teachers.
During your doctoral studies, you’ll be required to write a dissertation, which involves conducting independent research in your field of expertise.
This work not only enhances your knowledge and credentials, but also prepares you for the research and publishing expectations of a postsecondary teaching career.
While in graduate school, consider teaching assistantships or similar opportunities.
This experience can be beneficial for your future career as it allows you to gain practical classroom experience under the supervision of an experienced professor.
Remember, the path to becoming a postsecondary teacher can be long and challenging, requiring many years of study.
However, the reward of educating the next generation in your area of expertise can be fulfilling and worthwhile.
Step 3: Focus on Academic Research and Publications
As a postsecondary teacher, a significant part of your role involves conducting research and publishing your findings in academic journals.
Building a strong research profile will not only boost your credibility but also increase your chances of securing permanent or tenured positions in academia.
Start by identifying your areas of interest within your field of study and make it the primary focus of your research.
You can work on these subjects during your postgraduate and doctoral studies, gradually building your expertise.
Participate in academic conferences, workshops, and seminars to present your research findings, exchange ideas with other scholars, and keep yourself updated with the latest developments in your field.
All these activities will also provide excellent networking opportunities.
Work on getting your research published in reputable journals and publications.
Remember, the quality of your research is more important than quantity.
It’s better to have a few well-regarded papers in high-ranking journals than many papers in less prestigious ones.
Besides research, postsecondary teachers are also expected to contribute to their academic communities.
This can be done by reviewing other scholars’ research, serving on editorial boards, or getting involved in departmental or university committees.
Finally, while focusing on your research, don’t forget about teaching.
The ability to impart knowledge effectively is a critical skill for a postsecondary teacher.
You might consider taking courses in pedagogy or related areas to improve your teaching skills.
After all, a successful postsecondary teacher is one who excels both in research and teaching.
Step 4: Gain Teaching Experience
Having theoretical knowledge is important as a postsecondary teacher, but practical teaching experience is equally crucial.
This can be gained through teaching assistantships during your doctoral program, where you’ll assist a professor in their course, or even lead a course yourself under supervision.
Try to gain as much experience as you can across different aspects of teaching.
This can involve creating lesson plans, grading assignments, communicating with students, and maintaining classroom discipline.
Furthermore, getting involved in curriculum development or educational research can also provide valuable experience.
These opportunities will allow you to understand the academic environment better and gain confidence in managing a classroom.
Moreover, many institutions prefer hiring candidates with demonstrated teaching experience.
Therefore, this step is essential for becoming a competitive candidate in the job market.
Remember that teaching experiences should be well-documented and highlighted in your CV, as this could significantly influence a prospective employer’s decision.
Step 5: Develop a Professional Network
Building a strong professional network is an essential step for a postsecondary teacher.
Start by connecting with professors, mentors, and colleagues in your graduate school, as they can provide valuable insights, support, and opportunities in your field of study.
You can also join academic societies or organizations related to your discipline.
These groups often hold conferences and events that provide opportunities for networking and presenting your research.
It is also important to create an online presence.
Use social media platforms and academic networking sites to connect with other professionals in your field.
Create a LinkedIn profile and join relevant groups.
Publish your research online and engage in discussions.
Remember, networking is a two-way street.
It’s not just about what others can do for you, but also how you can contribute to them.
Share your insights, help others when they need it, and maintain your relationships.
In the postsecondary education field, your professional network can help you find teaching or research opportunities, collaborate on research projects, and gain insights into teaching practices and trends.
Networking is crucial for career advancement and staying updated in your field.
Step 6: Present at Conferences and Seminars
As a postsecondary teacher, it’s important to stay updated with the latest advancements and research in your field of study.
One of the ways to do this is by attending and presenting at academic conferences and seminars.
These platforms offer an opportunity to share your research findings, interact with other scholars in your field, and gain exposure to different perspectives and ideas.
You should begin by identifying relevant conferences in your subject area.
Submit your research paper or presentation proposal according to the guidelines provided by the event organizers.
If your submission gets accepted, you will be invited to present your work at the event.
Presenting at conferences not only enhances your communication and public speaking skills but also helps in building your professional network.
It can lead to collaborations with other scholars, which can be beneficial for your future research work.
Additionally, it raises your profile within the academic community and can make you more attractive to potential employers or for promotions within your current institution.
Remember, active participation in academic conferences and seminars is a significant part of being a successful postsecondary teacher.
It not only enhances your teaching by integrating current research into your curriculum but also contributes to your professional development as an educator and researcher.
Step 7: Build a Strong Curriculum Vitae (CV)
As you prepare for a career as a postsecondary teacher, you must build a strong Curriculum Vitae (CV) that reflects your academic achievements, research work, teaching experience, publications, and other relevant professional experiences.
Your CV is often the first impression potential employers get of you, so it’s crucial to ensure it accurately represents your qualifications for teaching in higher education.
Unlike a resume, which is often one to two pages long, a CV for an academic position can be much longer and more detailed.
Highlight your academic background by providing details of your bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees, including the institutions, years of graduation, and your thesis or dissertation titles.
Make sure to list any honors or awards you received during your academic career.
Exhibit your research experience and published work, as this is often a significant factor in hiring decisions.
List the title of your research, the name of the supervisor, the duration of the project, and a brief description.
Include your publications in chronological order, starting with the most recent.
Teaching experience is another crucial component of your CV.
List all the courses you have taught, the institutions, and the duration.
You may also include any pedagogical training you’ve had.
Lastly, include any professional memberships or associations you belong to, any conferences or seminars you’ve attended or presented at, and any other relevant information that may set you apart from other candidates.
Remember, a well-crafted CV can open the door to interviews and, ultimately, a successful career as a postsecondary teacher.
Step 8: Apply for Postsecondary Teaching Positions
Once you have completed your doctoral degree and have some teaching or research experience under your belt, it’s time to start applying for postsecondary teaching positions.
Begin your job search by identifying colleges and universities that have strong programs in your area of expertise.
Academic jobs are often advertised on university websites and academic job boards.
Carefully review the job postings and tailor your application materials to highlight your strengths and experiences that match the job requirements.
This typically includes preparing a cover letter, a curriculum vitae (CV), a statement of teaching philosophy, and samples of scholarly work.
Your cover letter should be specific to the position and institution to which you’re applying.
In the letter, express your interest in the position, highlight your qualifications, and explain how you would contribute to the department and the institution.
Your CV should provide a comprehensive overview of your academic achievements, including your educational background, research projects, publications, presentations, teaching experience, and any awards or honors you have received.
The statement of teaching philosophy is a document that outlines your beliefs about teaching and learning, your teaching methods, and how you assess student learning.
It should provide evidence of your teaching effectiveness.
The samples of scholarly work could include articles published in academic journals, book chapters, conference presentations, or other research outputs.
In some cases, you may also be asked to provide letters of recommendation, so be prepared to ask your professors, mentors, or colleagues who know your work well and can speak positively about your qualifications for the position.
Lastly, prepare for potential job interviews.
Interviews for academic positions often include a teaching demonstration, a research presentation, and meetings with faculty members and students.
It’s essential to be well-prepared and to effectively communicate your passion for teaching and your expertise in your field.
Remember that the job search process can take several months, so it’s important to start early and to be patient.
Persistence and resilience are key in this competitive field.
Step 9: Prepare for Interviews and Teaching Demonstrations
After having spent considerable years in academia, you should now be well-versed in your subject and comfortable with teaching.
However, getting a job as a postsecondary teacher is not only about having the right qualifications, but also about demonstrating your teaching skills and knowledge during interviews and teaching demonstrations.
Before your interview, thoroughly research the institution you’re applying to.
Understand their values, their mission, their student population, and their teaching methods.
This will help you tailor your responses to their specific needs and culture.
In the interview, be prepared to discuss your teaching philosophy, your research interests, and how they align with the department’s goals.
You might also be asked about your approach to classroom management, how you handle diversity in the classroom, and how you integrate technology into your teaching.
Practice answering these questions and have specific examples ready to illustrate your points.
In addition to the interview, most institutions require a teaching demonstration.
This is your chance to showcase your teaching skills in a simulated classroom environment.
You’ll be asked to prepare a lesson on a specific topic and teach it to a panel.
The panel will be evaluating you on your ability to engage students, communicate complex ideas clearly, use effective teaching strategies, and manage your time.
Approach the teaching demonstration as you would a real class.
Plan your lesson well, interact with your ‘students’, and be open to questions.
Keep your teaching style natural and authentic, and remember to show your passion for the subject.
Preparing for interviews and teaching demonstrations can be stressful, but with adequate practice and preparation, you can show potential employers that you have what it takes to be an effective postsecondary teacher.
Step 10: Engage in Continuing Education and Professional Development
Even after securing a position as a Postsecondary Teacher, the learning process doesn’t stop.
The field of education is dynamic, with new teaching methodologies, research findings, and technological advancements consistently emerging.
Thus, it is essential to engage in continuing education and professional development to stay relevant in the field and provide the best education to your students.
Many universities and colleges often require their faculty members to participate in professional development activities.
This could include attending workshops, conferences, or seminars related to your field of study.
These events not only help you to stay updated with the latest industry trends but also provide excellent networking opportunities.
In addition to attending events, you can also choose to publish research papers in academic journals.
This not only enhances your expertise but also increases your credibility and visibility in your field.
Remember, becoming a Postsecondary Teacher is not just about teaching; it’s about ongoing learning and growth.
Regularly updating your knowledge and skills will not only make you a more effective educator but could also open up further career advancement opportunities.
Postsecondary Teacher Roles and Responsibilities
Postsecondary Teachers, also known as professors or faculty, provide higher education to students in colleges, universities, and vocational or technical schools.
They instruct students in a wide variety of academic and technical subjects beyond the high school level.
They have the following roles and responsibilities:
Teaching
- Prepare and deliver lectures to undergraduate or graduate students on topics such as classical literature, history, science, and philosophy.
- Lead class discussions and encourage student participation.
- Use various teaching methods to facilitate student learning, including classroom discussions, demonstrations, field trips, or laboratory experiments.
Research
- Conduct research in a particular field of knowledge and publish findings in professional journals, books, or electronic media.
- Stay updated with developments in their field by reading current literature, attending conferences, and talking with colleagues.
Assessment
- Initiate, facilitate, and moderate classroom discussions.
- Evaluate and grade students’ class work, assignments, and papers.
- Prepare and deliver examinations to assess student learning and comprehension.
Advising and Mentoring
- Provide advice and guidance to students on academic and vocational curricula, and on career issues.
- Mentor students and provide them with career advice and guidance.
Curriculum Development
- Develop an instructional plan known as a syllabus for the courses they teach and ensure that it meets college and department standards.
- Update and revise curriculum to keep it current.
Professional Development
- Participate in campus and community events.
- Collaborate with colleagues to address teaching and research issues.
- Attend professional development workshops and conferences to enhance teaching skills and subject matter expertise.
Administration
- Serve on academic or administrative committees that deal with institutional policies, departmental matters, and academic issues.
- Perform administrative duties such as serving as department head.
Collaboration
- Collaborate with colleagues to address teaching and research issues.
- Work with colleagues to develop or modify the curriculum.
Communication
- Maintain regular office hours to advise and assist students.
- Meet with parents or guardians to discuss their children’s progress and to determine their priorities for their children and their resource needs.
What Does a Postsecondary Teacher Do?
Postsecondary Teachers, also known as Professors or Lecturers, primarily work in colleges, universities, and other higher education institutions.
They may also be employed in community colleges, professional schools, and vocational schools.
Some are self-employed or work online as private tutors.
Their primary role is to educate students beyond the high school level in a wide variety of academic and vocational subjects, which may range from humanities and social sciences to science and technology.
Postsecondary Teachers design and deliver lectures, create and grade examinations, guide class discussions, and evaluate student’s performance.
They also advise students on academic and vocational curricular and career issues.
In addition to teaching, they often engage in advanced research in their field of expertise.
This research may result in the publication of articles, books, or scholarly papers.
These publications are a significant aspect of a Postsecondary Teacher’s career, particularly in universities where ‘publish or perish’ is a common saying.
Moreover, Postsecondary Teachers also take on administrative tasks such as serving on academic or administrative committees that deal with institutional policies, departmental matters, and academic issues.
They may also participate in student recruitment, registration, and placement activities.
Essential Postsecondary Teacher Skills
- Subject Knowledge: A deep understanding of the subject they are teaching is crucial. This knowledge forms the basis of their lectures, discussions, and student assessments.
- Communication: Postsecondary teachers need to be excellent communicators, able to convey complex information in a way that students can understand and absorb. This applies to both oral and written communication.
- Instructional Skills: Being able to design and implement effective lesson plans is essential. This includes understanding different learning styles and adapting teaching methods accordingly.
- Student Engagement: Teachers should have the ability to engage students and inspire an interest in the subject matter. This might involve creative teaching strategies, interactive discussions, or relating academic concepts to real-world scenarios.
- Assessment and Feedback: Postsecondary teachers must be able to assess student performance effectively and provide constructive feedback. This skill is important for helping students improve and reach their academic goals.
- Research Skills: Many postsecondary teachers are expected to conduct research in their field of expertise. This involves the ability to design research projects, gather and analyze data, and draw conclusions.
- Critical Thinking: Teachers should have strong critical thinking skills, which allow them to interpret and analyze information, develop reasoned arguments, and make sound decisions.
- Technology Proficiency: With the rise of digital learning environments, teachers need to be proficient in relevant technology, such as learning management systems (LMS), online grading systems, and educational software.
- Adaptability: The ability to adapt to changing situations, such as updates in curriculum standards, new educational technology, or varying student needs, is essential for postsecondary teachers.
- Mentoring: Postsecondary teachers often act as mentors to their students, providing guidance on academic issues, career paths, and personal development. Good interpersonal skills are required for this role.
- Organization: Teachers must be able to manage their time effectively, keep track of student progress, prepare for classes, and meet academic deadlines.
- Professional Development: A commitment to ongoing professional development is crucial. This might involve participating in conferences, workshops, or further education to stay updated in their subject area and teaching methodologies.
- Cultural Competence: Postsecondary teachers should be prepared to work with diverse student populations. This requires an understanding of cultural differences and the ability to create an inclusive learning environment.
- Leadership: Teachers often take on leadership roles, whether in the classroom, department, or broader academic community. Leadership skills involve decision-making, problem-solving, and influencing others positively.
- Patience: Teaching can be a demanding job, requiring patience to handle academic challenges, student issues, administrative tasks, and more.
Postsecondary Teacher Career Path Progression
The Foundation: Adjunct Professor
The journey begins with an adjunct or assistant professor role.
At this stage, you focus on gaining practical teaching experience and developing your scholarly expertise.
You’ll typically be responsible for teaching classes, grading assignments, and conducting office hours.
Here are some tips for success:
- Engage Actively: Show enthusiasm in the classroom and aim to make each lecture engaging and informative for your students.
- Seek Mentorship: Learn from experienced faculty members and don’t hesitate to seek advice.
- Research: Continue to conduct research in your field of study to enhance your academic credentials.
The Ascent: Associate Professor
As you gain experience and build a scholarly reputation, you’ll transition into the role of an Associate Professor.
You may have the opportunity to guide student research, design courses, and have a greater impact on curriculum decisions.
Here’s how to thrive in this role:
- Teaching Excellence: Strive for excellence in your teaching and constantly refine your teaching methods.
- Collaboration: Collaborate with colleagues on research projects and contribute to the academic community.
- Service: Contribute to your institution by participating in committees and administrative tasks.
Reaching New Heights: Full Professor
The next stage is the Full Professor position.
At this level, you’re recognized for your expertise and leadership within the department.
You may lead major research projects, mentor junior faculty, and shape the academic direction of the department.
To excel as a Full Professor:
- Mentorship: Share your knowledge and experiences to help junior faculty and students grow.
- Leadership: Lead academic initiatives and contribute to strategic planning at the department or college level.
- Research Excellence: Continue to produce high-quality research and strive for recognition in your academic field.
Beyond the Horizon: Department Chair and Beyond
As your career progresses, you may step into administrative roles such as Department Chair, Dean, or Provost.
These positions involve greater responsibilities including budgeting, hiring, strategic planning, and shaping the academic policies of the institution.
Here’s what to focus on:
- Leadership: Develop strong leadership skills to guide your department or school effectively.
- Strategic Thinking: Understand the larger academic landscape and make strategic decisions that align with the institution’s goals.
- Communication: Maintain open lines of communication with faculty, staff, and students to ensure a positive and productive academic environment.
Pinnacle of Success: University President
At the highest level, you may become a University President or Chancellor.
In this role, you’ll be responsible for the overall management of the university, making critical decisions that shape the direction of the institution, and serving as the public face of the university.
Postsecondary Teacher Salary
Entry-Level Postsecondary Teacher
- Median Salary: $39,000 – $55,000 per year
- Entry-level postsecondary teachers typically have 0-2 years of experience and hold a Ph.D. in the subject they wish to teach, though some institutions may accept a master’s degree.
Mid-Level Postsecondary Teacher
- Median Salary: $58,000 – $73,000 per year
- Mid-level teachers usually have 2-5 years of experience and are expected to engage in research, publication, and committee responsibilities, in addition to teaching.
Senior Postsecondary Teacher
- Median Salary: $74,000 – $96,000 per year
- Senior postsecondary teachers have 5+ years of experience, often holding tenured positions. They typically have a high level of responsibility, including departmental leadership, curriculum development, and mentoring junior faculty.
Postsecondary Department Chair / Program Director
- Median Salary: $80,000 – $120,000+ per year
- These roles come with significant experience and often involve administrative responsibilities, strategic planning, faculty evaluation, and budget management for their departments or programs.
Dean / Provost / University President
- Median Salary: $100,000 – $400,000+ per year
- These high-level positions require extensive experience in academia, deep subject matter expertise, and significant leadership skills. They are responsible for setting the academic and strategic direction of the institution.
Postsecondary Teacher Work Environment
Postsecondary teachers, also known as professors, often work in colleges, universities, community colleges, vocational schools, and professional schools.
They spend a lot of their time in classrooms, faculty offices, and laboratories where they teach and conduct research.
The work schedule for postsecondary teachers can vary.
Some have flexible schedules, being able to choose which times they teach, leaving other times open for research, meetings, office hours, and other administrative tasks.
They may even have the option to teach classes online, providing more flexibility.
During semesters, they may experience a heavier workload and longer hours to prepare lessons, grade papers, and conduct research.
However, they may have more flexibility during the summer and breaks between semesters.
Postsecondary teachers may also have the opportunity to travel for academic conferences, research, or academic exchange programs.
Some postsecondary teachers might also have administrative responsibilities, such as serving on committees, developing programs, and participating in faculty training.
FAQs About Becoming a Postsecondary Teacher
What is needed to become a postsecondary teacher?
To become a postsecondary teacher, you typically need to have a Ph.D. in the subject area you wish to teach, although a master’s degree may be sufficient for some community colleges or certain disciplines.
This usually involves years of specialized study and research in your field.
Prior teaching experience, such as serving as a teaching assistant during graduate school, can also be beneficial.
Key skills include a deep understanding of your subject, the ability to communicate complex ideas clearly, critical thinking, and the ability to inspire and motivate students.
How long does it take to become a postsecondary teacher?
The time it takes to become a postsecondary teacher can vary widely depending on your field of study and the level of degree you pursue.
For example, obtaining a Ph.D., which is often required for postsecondary teaching positions, typically takes 5-7 years after completing a bachelor’s degree.
In addition to coursework, this includes the time it takes to complete original research and write a dissertation.
However, the time frame may be shorter if you’re only pursuing a master’s degree or if you’re entering a field where a Ph.D. isn’t required.
Can I be a postsecondary teacher without a Ph.D.?
While it is common for postsecondary teachers to hold a Ph.D., it isn’t always necessary.
In certain disciplines or at some institutions, such as community colleges, a master’s degree in the relevant field may be sufficient.
Alternatively, some schools may hire industry professionals without a Ph.D. to teach certain courses, particularly in vocational or technical fields.
However, having a Ph.D. can significantly increase your job prospects and earning potential as a postsecondary teacher.
Is being a postsecondary teacher a stressful job?
Being a postsecondary teacher can be stressful at times, as it often involves managing multiple responsibilities such as teaching, grading, conducting research, publishing academic papers, and serving on committees.
Workloads can be heavy, particularly during grading periods or when research deadlines approach.
However, many postsecondary teachers find the job to be rewarding and enjoy the intellectual challenge and the opportunity to make a difference in students’ lives.
What are the prospects for postsecondary teachers in the next decade?
Job prospects for postsecondary teachers are expected to grow in the next decade, although the rate of growth may vary depending on the discipline.
Fields with a high demand for graduates, such as healthcare and certain STEM disciplines, are likely to see greater growth.
However, the increasing use of part-time and non-tenure-track positions in academia may impact job security and benefits.
Conclusion
And there you have it.
Setting out on a journey to become a postsecondary teacher is no easy task, but the rewards are unquestionable.
Equipped with the right abilities, training, and tenacity, you are well on your way to making a substantial difference in the world of education.
Remember, the journey may be demanding, but the potential to ignite the spark of learning in future generations is boundless. Your teaching could inspire the next breakthrough idea that changes how we understand, explore, and engage with the world.
So, take that initial step. Immerse yourself in knowledge. Connect with fellow educators. And most importantly, never stop learning.
Because the world is eagerly awaiting the minds you will shape.
And if you’re seeking personalized guidance on beginning or advancing your career as a postsecondary teacher, don’t hesitate to explore our AI Career Path Advisor.
This complimentary tool is designed to provide tailored advice and resources to effectively help you navigate your career path.
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