How to Become an Academic Professor (A Journey Beyond Journals)
If you’ve ever envisioned yourself leading a classroom, shaping the minds of the next generation, or pondered the steps to becoming an academic professor, you’ve landed in the right spot.
In this guide, we’ll delve into the PRECISE steps you need to embark on your journey to becoming an academic professor. We’ll discuss:
- The essential skills required.
- The education and qualifications you need to attain.
- How to secure your first position as an academic professor.
So, whether you’re a student with a thirst for knowledge or a professional seeking a career change into academia, stick around.
We’re about to lay out the roadmap to becoming an academic professor.
Let’s dive in!
Steps to Become an Academic Professor
Step 1: Earn an Undergraduate Degree
The first step to becoming an academic professor is to earn an undergraduate degree.
This degree should be in a subject you are passionate about and interested in teaching in the future.
For example, if you want to become a professor of English literature, you should earn your bachelor’s degree in English or a related field.
The undergraduate program will help you build your knowledge base in your chosen subject.
You should use this time to gain a deep understanding of the subject, develop critical thinking skills, and learn how to conduct basic research.
Participating in seminars, workshops, and internships can provide valuable experience and opportunities to engage with the material in a more profound way.
Remember, your undergraduate degree serves as a foundation for your future studies, so it is essential to take it seriously and work hard to excel in your chosen field.
After earning your undergraduate degree, you can move on to obtaining a master’s degree and later a doctoral degree in your chosen field.
Step 2: Specialize with a Graduate Degree
After earning a bachelor’s degree, the next step towards becoming an academic professor is to specialize in your chosen field of study with a graduate degree.
This often begins with a master’s degree, where you will explore your chosen discipline in greater depth and have the opportunity to conduct original research.
Many aspiring professors choose to earn a doctoral degree (Ph.D.), which is typically necessary for tenure-track professor positions at universities.
During a Ph.D. program, you will become an expert in your field, conducting original research and contributing new knowledge to your discipline.
Choosing the right graduate program is crucial.
Look for programs that not only have a strong reputation in your field of interest but also offer opportunities for teaching, research, and publication, as these will be important for your future career as a professor.
In some disciplines, such as the humanities or social sciences, a master’s degree might be integrated into the Ph.D. program.
In others, like the sciences or engineering, you might go directly into a Ph.D. program after completing your bachelor’s degree.
Keep in mind that graduate school is a significant commitment, often taking several years to complete, but it is an essential step in the journey to becoming a professor.
Your time in graduate school will help shape your scholarly identity and prepare you for the responsibilities of an academic career.
Step 3: Pursue a Doctorate
To become an Academic Professor, one must obtain a Doctorate degree.
This is the highest level of academic degree and will provide you with the qualifications necessary to teach at a university level.
The doctorate program usually takes 3-5 years and includes extensive research and writing in your field of interest.
Your doctoral program will also require a dissertation, which is a comprehensive research project in your area of study.
This project will entail original research and is typically required for completion of the program.
Your dissertation will allow you to delve deep into a specific topic within your field and may lead to breakthroughs or significant contributions to the existing knowledge.
Remember, getting a doctorate is a significant commitment in terms of time and resources.
You will need to be passionate about your field of study and dedicated to rigorous academic research.
Your doctorate should align with your career goals and the subject you wish to teach as an Academic Professor.
During your doctoral studies, consider taking on teaching assistant roles or part-time lecturing positions.
This will provide you with practical teaching experience and allow you to build connections within the academic community.
These experiences can be crucial when it comes to securing a permanent position as an Academic Professor.
Step 4: Conduct Original Research
As an aspiring academic professor, conducting original research is a crucial step in your journey.
This usually begins in your doctoral program where you are expected to contribute to your field of study by creating new knowledge.
This is done through a dissertation, which is a long and detailed research project on a subject of your choosing.
In addition to your dissertation, you should also strive to publish your work in academic journals.
This not only helps to establish your credibility as a scholar, but it also exposes your work to other academics who might have similar interests.
Remember that the purpose of research is not merely to gain knowledge, but also to contribute to the wider academic community.
After attaining your doctorate, continue conducting research in your field of specialization.
This could be as part of a post-doctoral position or while working as a lecturer or assistant professor.
Lastly, remember that research is a continuous process.
Trends, theories, and ideas in academia are always evolving, so continuous research allows you to stay updated and relevant in your field.
It also provides opportunities for collaboration with other scholars, which can greatly enrich your own work.
Step 5: Publish Research Findings
As part of your academic journey towards becoming a professor, you’ll need to publish your research findings in peer-reviewed academic journals.
This is a critical step that not only demonstrates your expertise in your field but also shows your commitment to contributing to the body of knowledge within your discipline.
Typically, this process starts with identifying a unique research question or problem in your field.
You will then conduct rigorous research, often including data collection and analysis.
Next, you’ll write a research paper detailing your findings and submit it to an academic journal.
This process can be quite lengthy, as it involves peer review where other experts in your field scrutinize your work for its validity, methodology, and contribution to the field.
Getting published increases your visibility in the academic community, and is a crucial component for career advancement.
It’s also an opportunity to collaborate with other scholars and build a network within your field.
As a professor, you’ll be expected to continue publishing research throughout your career, hence this step is a key foundation for your role.
Step 6: Gain Teaching Experience
To become a successful academic professor, gaining teaching experience is a crucial step.
This can be achieved through various ways.
For example, as a graduate student, you may have the opportunity to assist a professor by teaching a course or a part of it under their supervision.
This allows you to understand the teaching dynamics of a classroom and helps you develop your teaching style.
Another way to gain experience is to work as a teaching assistant or instructor at a university.
This gives you hands-on experience in preparing lesson plans, delivering lectures, and grading student work.
It also provides a platform to interact with students and respond to their academic needs, which is an essential skill for an academic professor.
You can also seek opportunities to guest lecture or give presentations at academic conferences.
These opportunities enhance your public speaking skills, which are important for delivering lectures as a professor.
Remember, teaching experience not only makes you a better educator but also enhances your employability.
Colleges and universities prefer to hire candidates with teaching experience because it indicates that they can manage a classroom, create engaging lesson plans and effectively communicate complex information to students.
So, make sure to seek out these opportunities early in your career and continuously work on improving your teaching skills.
Step 7: Build Academic and Professional Networks
Building a strong network in academia and your professional field is essential in becoming an Academic Professor.
This network can expose you to different research opportunities, collaborations, or job openings that you might not otherwise know about.
Start by connecting with professors in your department and in related fields.
Attend academic conferences, seminars, or workshops where you can meet researchers and professionals who share your academic interests.
These events are not only excellent venues to present your work and receive valuable feedback but also opportunities to meet potential collaborators and mentors.
Moreover, consider joining professional organizations related to your field of study.
These organizations often have resources for members, including job postings, research funding, and networking opportunities.
It’s also important to establish an online presence.
Join academic social networking sites, engage in discussions in relevant forums, and maintain a professional profile on platforms like LinkedIn.
Another way to build your network is by publishing your research in reputable academic journals.
This will allow your work to be recognized by others in your field and may lead to invitations for speaking engagements or collaborations.
Remember, networking is not only about taking, but also about giving.
Be ready to share your knowledge, help others, and contribute to the community.
This will help you build strong and lasting relationships in your network.
Step 8: Stay Abreast of Developments in Your Field
As an academic professor, it’s imperative to stay up-to-date with the latest research and trends in your field.
This is necessary not only to provide your students with the most current information and teaching methods but also to maintain your credibility as a professor.
You can achieve this by attending academic conferences, subscribing to relevant academic journals, and actively participating in scholarly communities.
Research and development in any field is a constant process, and as a professor, you should be a part of this process.
This will also help in your own research work.
You can also consider publishing your research in peer-reviewed academic journals.
This will not only enhance your CV but also keep you updated on your field’s latest developments.
Staying abreast of developments in your field also involves regularly updating your course materials to reflect new theories, methodologies, or discoveries.
Continually learning and adapting is a crucial part of being an academic professor.
You should also encourage your students to be aware of the latest trends, creating a learning environment where everyone is growing and evolving.
Remember, as a professor, you’re not only a teacher, but a lifelong learner.
Your role is not just to disseminate knowledge, but also to create it and inspire a similar passion in your students.
Step 9: Present at Academic Conferences
Presenting at academic conferences can be an integral part of your journey to becoming an Academic Professor.
It not only helps you gain visibility in your chosen academic field but also provides an opportunity for networking and collaboration with fellow researchers.
Begin by identifying suitable academic conferences in your field of study.
These can be found through academic journals, professional associations, or networking with other academics.
Once you’ve identified the conferences you wish to attend, you’ll need to submit a proposal or abstract for your presentation.
This will typically involve writing a brief summary of your research and its significance.
If your proposal gets accepted, prepare a presentation that clearly communicates your research findings to a broad academic audience.
This could be a poster presentation, a panel discussion, or a formal talk.
Be sure to practice beforehand to ensure you can effectively communicate your research and answer any potential questions.
Remember, academic conferences are not just about presenting your work, but also about learning from others.
Attend other presentations, participate in workshops, and engage in discussions.
This will not only broaden your academic perspective but also provide opportunities to meet potential collaborators, mentors, and employers.
Finally, use academic conferences as a platform for feedback and criticism.
Constructive critique from peers can help refine your research and presentation skills, improving your prospects for future academic roles.
Step 10: Apply for Academic Positions
When you have earned your doctorate, have some teaching and research experience under your belt, you are now ready to apply for academic positions.
Start by identifying colleges and universities that are a good fit for your area of expertise, research interests, and teaching philosophy.
Each institution will have its own application process, which generally involves submitting a curriculum vitae or resume, a cover letter, teaching philosophy, and sample syllabi.
You may also need to provide a research plan outlining your research proposals, potential funding sources, and how your research will contribute to the institution’s goals.
Academic positions are highly competitive, so it’s essential to tailor your application to each job you apply for.
Highlight your teaching experiences, research achievements, and how your work fits with the department’s mission and goals.
Also, be ready to provide references that can attest to your abilities as a teacher and researcher.
Stay persistent in your job search.
It may take some time to land your first academic position, but with the right qualifications and preparation, you can build a successful career as an academic professor.
Remember to continue publishing your research and attending academic conferences to stay current in your field and increase your visibility in the academic community.
This will not only bolster your CV but also provide networking opportunities that could lead to job offers.
Step 11: Engage in Continuous Professional Development
Becoming an Academic Professor is not the end of the road, in fact, it is just the beginning.
As an academic, you are expected to continually engage in professional development.
This could mean staying updated with research trends and breakthroughs in your chosen field, attending or speaking at industry conferences, or even continuing your formal education with advanced courses or additional degrees.
In addition to staying current on knowledge within your field, you should also seek out opportunities for improving your teaching skills.
This could involve attending pedagogical training sessions, integrating new teaching technologies into your courses, or adopting innovative educational methodologies.
Furthermore, seeking out opportunities for research and publication can also be a part of your continuous professional development.
This not only contributes to your knowledge base but also raises your profile and credibility within the academic community.
Engaging in continuous professional development is crucial for your career growth as an academic professor.
It helps you stay relevant in your field, enhance your teaching capabilities, and opens up opportunities for collaborations, promotions, and recognition.
Remember, learning is a lifelong journey, and as an academic professor, you are a torchbearer of this ethos.
Step 12: Pursue Tenure Track Opportunities
Once you have secured a position as an assistant or associate professor, the next logical step in your academic career is to pursue tenure track opportunities.
Tenure signifies a permanent job contract in academia, and is a mark of prestige that provides job security and academic freedom.
During this step, you will need to produce high-quality research that contributes to your field, teach effectively, and engage in service to your academic institution.
The tenure process varies from institution to institution, but typically involves a review of your teaching, research, and service activities by a committee of tenured faculty members.
This review is usually conducted after a probationary period, often six years.
Remember, securing a tenure track position is competitive and requires significant dedication to your field of research.
You will likely need to showcase a portfolio of published research, demonstrate your teaching competencies, and express a commitment to university service.
Additionally, it’s important to maintain strong relationships with colleagues and administrators throughout your career, as their support can be instrumental in earning tenure.
Networking, collaboration, and mentorship are all key to success on the tenure track.
While the pursuit of tenure can be challenging, achieving this goal can provide the stability and freedom to pursue your academic interests and make lasting contributions to your field.
Step 13: Contribute to University Service and Leadership Roles
As an academic professor, your responsibilities extend beyond teaching and conducting research.
You are also expected to contribute to the overall functioning and governance of the university.
This could involve taking up various service and leadership roles within the academic community.
You may be invited or elected to serve on different committees such as departmental committees, faculty senate, or university-wide committees.
These committees play a key role in decision making on issues like curriculum development, student affairs, faculty hiring, and academic policies.
Your participation in these committees not only helps in the efficient functioning of the institution but also demonstrates your commitment to the university and your profession.
In addition to committee work, you might also consider taking up administrative or leadership roles such as department chair, dean, or provost.
These roles involve managing faculty, setting departmental or university goals, and making crucial decisions.
Such roles can be demanding but they offer a unique opportunity to shape the direction of your department or university.
Remember that service and leadership are key aspects of your role as a professor.
They can enhance your reputation, open doors for collaboration, and may influence your promotion and tenure decisions.
Therefore, take these responsibilities seriously, and strive to make meaningful contributions.
In sum, university service and leadership roles not only enhance your professional profile but also contribute significantly to your personal growth, offering you a broader perspective of the academia, honing your leadership skills, and providing a sense of fulfilment by contributing to the larger academic community.
Academic Professor Roles and Responsibilities
Academic Professors hold a crucial role in higher education institutions, where they deliver lectures, conduct research, mentor students, and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in their specific field.
They have the following roles and responsibilities:
Teaching
- Prepare and deliver lectures on specific subjects in line with curriculum standards.
- Create an engaging learning environment that promotes critical thinking and creativity.
- Design and implement innovative teaching methods.
Research
- Conduct research in their field of expertise and publish findings in scholarly journals.
- Stay current with the latest developments in their field and integrate these into their teaching and research.
- Seek funding for research projects through grants and other sources.
Mentorship
- Supervise student research projects and theses at undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels.
- Provide academic and career advice to students.
Curriculum Development
- Participate in the development and revision of curriculum in line with recent developments in the field.
- Develop course materials such as syllabi, homework assignments, and handouts.
Assessment
- Evaluate and grade students’ class work, assignments, papers, and examinations.
- Provide constructive feedback to students and guide them in improving their performance.
Academic Service
- Participate in departmental and university meetings, committees, and task forces.
- Contribute to the overall governance and strategic direction of the institution.
Professional Development
- Engage in continuous professional development to stay current with developments in teaching methods and research findings in their field.
- Present research findings at conferences and professional gatherings.
Public Engagement
- Represent the university at academic and professional associations, conferences, and other public venues.
- Share expertise with the broader community through public lectures, workshops, or media contributions.
Consultation
- Provide expert advice to government, industry, non-profit organizations, or the general public in their area of expertise.
What Does an Academic Professor Do?
An Academic Professor typically works at universities or colleges, where they educate students in a specific field of study.
They deliver lectures, lead seminars, guide student discussions, and provide one-on-one instruction during office hours.
Their lessons are often based on their own research, published papers, and textbooks within their area of expertise.
In addition to teaching, professors are expected to conduct research, publish their findings in academic journals, and present their work at conferences.
Some professors may also write books in their field of study.
Academic Professors also play a role in the academic community.
They may sit on academic committees, contribute to the development of academic policies, review prospective student applications, and mentor junior faculty members.
They are also expected to keep up with new developments in their field and may be asked to consult with government, business, non-profit organizations, or the community on issues related to their area of expertise.
Professors are often evaluated based on their teaching, research, and service to the academic community.
This evaluation can impact their career progression and prospects for tenure.
Essential Academic Professor Skills
- Expertise in Subject Matter: Professors need to have comprehensive knowledge and understanding of their subject matter. They must continuously update their knowledge to stay abreast of new developments and research in their field.
- Teaching Skills: Professors must know how to present complex information in a way that is easy to understand. This involves creating compelling presentations, facilitating productive classroom discussions, and designing engaging coursework.
- Research Skills: Many academic professors are also researchers. They need to know how to design research studies, collect data, analyze results, and draw conclusions. Proficiency in research methods and statistical analysis tools is also necessary.
- Communication: Professors must be adept at communicating with a diverse group of students, faculty, and administrators. They need to be able to clearly explain concepts, provide feedback, and engage in academic discourse.
- Problem-solving: Professors often encounter challenges in their research or teaching. They must be able to think critically, troubleshoot issues, and find effective solutions.
- Mentorship: Professors often mentor students in their academic and professional development. This requires empathy, guidance, and the ability to inspire and motivate.
- Leadership: Professors need to lead classes, manage research teams, and contribute to departmental decision-making. Leadership skills include decision making, delegating, and conflict resolution.
- Time Management: With responsibilities including teaching, research, grading, and administration, professors must effectively manage their time and prioritize tasks.
- Technical Skills: Depending on their field of study, professors may need to be proficient in certain technologies or software. This could include lab equipment, statistical software, or academic databases.
- Creativity: Professors need to be creative in their teaching methods to engage students and enhance learning. They also need creativity in their research to explore new ideas and solutions.
- Writing Skills: Professors often write research papers, grant proposals, and course materials. Excellent writing skills are required for clear, concise, and effective communication.
- Public Speaking: Public speaking skills are important for delivering lectures, presenting research findings, and participating in academic conferences.
- Networking: Building and maintaining professional relationships is crucial in academia. Professors need to connect with other scholars in their field, collaborate on research, and create opportunities for their students.
- Adaptability: The academic world is constantly changing, and professors must adapt to new teaching methods, research tools, and academic standards.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Professors interact with students and colleagues from diverse backgrounds. It’s important to respect and appreciate cultural differences, and promote an inclusive learning environment.
Academic Professor Career Path Progression
The Foundation: Graduate Teaching Assistant
The journey to becoming an Academic Professor often starts as a Graduate Teaching Assistant during your postgraduate studies.
Your responsibilities will involve assisting professors in instructing undergraduate courses and conducting research.
Here are some tips to excel in this role:
- Master Subject Matter: Dedicate time to broaden your understanding of your specific field.
- Develop Teaching Skills: Learn effective teaching techniques and how to manage a classroom.
- Research Regularly: Contribute to research projects to gain valuable experience.
The Ascent: Assistant Professor
Upon completion of your doctoral degree, you may begin as an Assistant Professor.
You will take on more responsibility, leading classes and conducting your own research.
Here’s how you can thrive:
- Publish Consistently: Regularly contribute to scholarly journals and other academic publications.
- Effective Teaching: Continually improve your teaching methods to better educate your students.
- Professional Networking: Build relationships with other academics in your field.
Reaching New Heights: Associate Professor
Once you’ve proven your abilities in research and teaching, you may be promoted to Associate Professor.
At this stage, you’ll be expected to take on more advanced classes, supervise graduate students, and contribute significantly to your field.
To excel in this role:
- Leadership: Assume leadership roles in academic committees or research teams.
- Grant Writing: Secure funding for your research through grants and other sources.
- Mentorship: Act as a mentor to junior faculty members and students.
Beyond the Horizon: Full Professor
As a Full Professor, you will be recognized as a leader in your field.
You’ll have the opportunity to shape the curriculum, mentor junior faculty members, and lead significant research projects.
Here’s how to continue to excel:
- Continuous Learning: Stay updated with the latest developments in your field.
- Increased Visibility: Speak at conferences and other professional gatherings.
- Community Service: Contribute to your institution and community through service commitments.
Pinnacle of Success: Endowed Chair or Dean
At the peak of the academic career path, you could be appointed to an Endowed Chair or become a Dean.
Here, you’ll be responsible for shaping the academic direction of your department or institution, making impactful decisions, and influencing the future of education in your field.
Academic Professor Salary
Assistant Professor
- Median Salary: $50,000 – $80,000 per year
- Assistant Professors typically have a PhD in their field of study, and this is often their first full-time academic job. They have responsibilities of teaching, research, and service to their institution.
Associate Professor
- Median Salary: $60,000 – $100,000 per year
- Associate Professors usually have several years of experience as an Assistant Professor. They have demonstrated a record of consistent contributions in research, teaching, and service to their institution.
Full Professor
- Median Salary: $80,000 – $140,000+ per year
- Full Professors have demonstrated significant and sustained contributions to their field of research, teaching, and service to their institution. They often take on leadership roles within their institution.
Distinguished Professor / Endowed Chair
- Median Salary: $100,000 – $200,000+ per year
- Distinguished Professors or Endowed Chair positions are often awarded to Full Professors who have exceptional contributions to their field of research. They usually have a high level of recognition and influence in their academic field.
Dean / Provost / University President
- Median Salary: $150,000 – $400,000+ per year
- These high-level positions usually require extensive experience in academia. They are responsible for setting academic strategies, policies, and ensuring the overall quality of education and research at the institution.
Academic Professor Work Environment
Academic Professors often work in universities, colleges, and community colleges.
They may also find employment in professional schools such as law or medical schools.
Their workplace is usually split between the classroom, where they deliver lectures and facilitate discussions, and their office, where they prepare for classes, meet with students, grade assignments and conduct their own research.
Professors often have the flexibility to determine their schedule within the constraints of their teaching and office hours.
However, their work is not confined to the typical workweek schedule, as they often have to prepare lectures, grade papers, and perform research tasks during evenings and weekends.
During the academic off-season, professors typically focus on their research, write scholarly articles and books, attend conferences, and may teach intensive courses.
After gaining experience and achieving tenure, some professors may take up administrative roles within their university or college, such as department head, dean, or even president.
FAQs About Becoming an Academic Professor
What is needed to become an academic professor?
Becoming an academic professor generally requires a strong foundation in a specific field of study, along with a PhD in that field.
It also requires experience in conducting research and publishing in academic journals.
Important skills include excellent communication abilities, critical thinking, and a passion for teaching and mentoring students.
Having some teaching experience, either as a teaching assistant during your graduate studies or through postdoctoral work, can also be advantageous.
How long does it take to become an academic professor?
The length of time to become an academic professor can vary greatly, but it is often a long-term commitment.
After obtaining a bachelor’s degree, which typically takes four years, you must pursue a PhD, which can take anywhere from four to seven years, or even longer.
After that, many academics spend several years in postdoctoral positions or as adjunct professors before securing a permanent professorship.
So, it could take anywhere from 10 to 15 years or more.
Can I become an academic professor without a PhD?
While it’s possible to teach at a community college or certain professional programs with a master’s degree, a PhD is typically required to become a professor at a four-year university.
This is because the role of a professor often involves conducting research and publishing in addition to teaching, and a PhD provides the necessary training in research methods.
Some universities may also consider candidates with significant professional experience in lieu of a PhD for certain applied fields.
Is being an academic professor a stressful job?
Being an academic professor can be stressful due to the pressures of publishing, securing funding for research, preparing lectures, grading assignments, and providing academic support to students.
The tenure process can also be highly competitive and stressful.
However, many professors find the job rewarding because of the ability to explore their intellectual passions, shape the minds of students, and contribute to their field of study.
What are the prospects for academic professors in the next decade?
The prospects for academic professors can depend on the field of study.
While the demand for professors is expected to grow in fields such as health, business, and certain STEM fields, competition for tenured positions is likely to remain high.
There is also a trend towards hiring more adjunct or part-time faculty.
However, the intellectual fulfillment and the opportunity to make a difference in a chosen field of study make the role of an academic professor a compelling career choice for many.
Conclusion
There you have it.
The journey to becoming an academic professor may be grueling, but its rewards are undeniably fulfilling.
With the right combination of knowledge, qualifications, and sheer willpower, you’re on the cusp of making a significant impact in the realm of academia.
Remember, the road might be arduous, but the prospects are infinite. Your scholarly contributions could lead to groundbreaking discoveries that change how we understand the world around us.
So, take that first step. Immerse yourself in scholarly pursuits. Establish connections with fellow academics. And most importantly, never stop learning.
Because the world is eager for your contributions.
If you’re seeking personalized guidance on beginning or advancing your career in academia, explore our AI Career Path Advisor.
This complimentary tool is designed to provide tailored advice and resources to aid you in effectively navigating your academic career path.
The Unfavored Frontier: The Most Hated Jobs in the Trade
Job Nirvana: The Most Satisfying Careers You Can Find
Secure Your Future: The Most Recession-Proof Careers
