Job Description for College Professors

In the United States, the term "college professor" refers to any of a group of expert instruction and research positions in a postsecondary educational institution.

Types

The terminology used to describe postsecondary instructors varies from country to country, and in the United States, the term "college professor" can refer to both an instructor or researcher at a college as well as at a university. Generally included under this umbrella term are: tenured professors, adjunct professors, associate professors, assistant professors, visiting professors and emeritus professors.

Responsibilities

Responsibilities of college professors vary widely based on discipline, title and institution. Generally, all college professors are required at some stage of their careers to conduct research, seek grant funding, publish literature and instruct students. Occasionally, however, a university may create a specialized position that does not include one or more of these duties.

Requirements

Requirements vary based on the professor's title and university or department standards. Generally, professors hold a PhD or other doctoral degree.

Job Prospects

Postsecondary teachers, of which college professors make up the majority, are expected to experience 15 percent employment growth between 2008 and 2018. This is faster than the average for all industries during the same time period.

Compensation

Compensation for college professors depends on location, institution, discipline and title. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average 2008 annual wage for postsecondary teachers was $58,830.

References

• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Teachers - Postsecondary