Associate Professor Job Description
Overview
An associate professor teaches undergraduate and graduate students at a university, conducts original research, and mentors students. They hold an intermediate academic rank between assistant professor and a professor, and this role usually marks the first promotion obtained after gaining a faculty position which often marks obtaining tenure.
Steps to take to start your career as an Associate Professor and other jobs like it
- Start by earning a bachelor's degree in a field related to the area you wish to teach. Gain research experience and start considering in what specific area you want to get an advanced degree. Then obtain a master's degree or likely a Ph.D. in your chosen discipline.
- During your graduate studies, focus on producing high-quality research, publishing papers, presenting at conferences, and networking with professionals in your field. Also seek opportunities to teach as a teaching assistant (TA) or adjunct instructor. TA responsibilities likely will be a requirement of your studies.
- Conduct significant research, publish in reputable academic journals, and collaborate with other scholars. Securing research grants and funding can also strengthen your CV.
- Prepare a strong application package, including a CV, cover letter, teaching philosophy statement, and research statement. Apply for assistant professor or similar positions at universities and colleges, and be prepared for the interview process, which may include presenting your research and teaching a class.
Assistant Professor Requirements
I am a teaching and research assistant professor. I've always loved teaching, and becoming an assistant professor was my dream job. When you graduate from high school, you go to college and university to earn your degree but you need a higher degree. A PhD is the minimum requirement for securing an academic job. If you decide just to teach, obtaining a PhD should be enough. However, if you plan to have your own lab, manage PhD students, or pursue postdoctoral research, you need to complete postdoctoral positions as well.
Degree Tip
It is advisable to get your PhD from one university and pursue postdoctoral opportunities at other universities to expand your network and enhance your knowledge.
Salary
Salaries for assistant professors in the US vary between $100,000 to $200,000 based on the location and depending on experience and funding.
Things to Know
This is not a 9 to 5 job like a typical industry job. There are times when you need to respond to emails, prepare presentations for classes or meetings, or work on weekends or nights. It is important to be aware of these requirements.
Pros and Cons
This job is not easy; you need to be passionate about your work and love what you do. If you don't, academia might not be the right fit for you. However, one of the great benefits of academia is being in constant touch with the younger generation. I work with five to ten undergraduates each year, and I learn a lot from my students. At the same time, I have the opportunity to witness the growth of others, which makes this job wonderful for me.
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Education you need to become an Associate Professor
These are the most common degrees or certificates earned by Jobtrees users prior to becoming an Associate Professor
There may be other required degrees or certifications needed for this job. The below info shows you the most commonly desired education level from employers when hiring for this job.
- Doctor of Philosophy (PH.D.) in Physics
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- Doctor of Philosophy (PH.D.) in Economics
- Bachelor of Science (b.sc.) in Psychology
Annual Pay Estimate for Associate Professor and Other Important Info
See how many years Associate Professor's are in their job, how much they make, how long it took to get there and how available this job is in terms of open positions.
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Career Paths for Associate Professor
Find data driven insights on the path to get to this role and where it can lead
Jobs to start your career in becoming an Associate Professor
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