How to Become a University Teacher

Teaching at a university is something that many people aspire to, but few will get to do. The bar is set high, but it is a goal that is reachable if you are dedicated enough. Here is how you can make your teaching dream come true.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• perseverance
• a Ph.D.
• writing ability
• connections
• speaking ability

1. Decide what you would like to teach as a college professor. It should be a subject that you absolutely love, as you will basically be studying this subject for the rest of your life!

2. Devote yourself to obtaining a Ph.D. in your chosen subject. A Ph.D. is the typical requirement for entry into this profession, although occasionally people with Master's degrees can become adjunct faculty if they have sufficient work experience or are very well-known.

3. Cultivate many contacts in your field and join professional organizations. You have the best chance of landing a choice teaching position if you have very good references and contacts in the area in which you wish to teach.

4. Publish, publish, publish! You should publish scholarly articles in as many peer-reviewed academic journals as possible. This increases your credibility as a potential professor.

5. Give speeches at conferences. This increases your visibility and you will make even more contacts.

6. Create a stunning resume with your degrees, publications, organizations featured prominently. Begin to network with people in your field to find out where the plum teaching positions are. Schedule interviews.

7. Be prepared to move to another state in order to teach at the most reputable school that you get an offer at. Put your best foot forward in interviews. Project confidence and highlight your accomplishments!

Tips & Warnings

• You are more likely to find a better position through networking than through headhunters.
• If you have published many academic articles and are a prominent speaker in your field, you may be able to gain a position without a Ph.D.
• You should be prepared to continue to publish and speak on your subject for the rest of your career.

[sgsasaki]

on 11/20/2008 Very sound advice. I've looked into a PhD but not sure I want to put in the years. It's a lot. Great article. 5 stars

[meacham01]

on 11/19/2008 I often considered doing this. You are right on as far as requirements. Great article.
Robert:)