A part-time professor who teaches at a college or university is known as an adjunct professor. Adjunct professors are typically hired to teach courses in their area of expertise on a semester-by-semester basis. They are frequently professionals with extensive experience in their field who want to share their knowledge and expertise with others by teaching.
Adjunct professors are typically not full-time college or university employees and are paid on a per-course basis. Each semester, they may teach one or more courses and are in charge of developing syllabi, preparing lectures, grading assignments, and providing feedback to students.
Adjunct professors may or may not have a Ph.D. or other terminal degree in their field. Some colleges and universities have requirements.
An adjunct professor’s role is important in higher education because they provide students with a diverse range of perspectives and expertise. They frequently bring real-world experience and practical knowledge to the classroom, which can be beneficial for students preparing for careers.
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Adjunct Professor Job Description Template
An adjunct professor is a part-time faculty member who teaches one or more courses at a college or university. Here is a general job description for an adjunct professor:
Job Title: Adjunct Professor
Job Type: Part-time
Job Summary: The adjunct professor is responsible for teaching courses in their area of expertise and providing students with a high-quality educational experience.
Principal Responsibilities:
- Create course syllabi and objectives that are in line with the curriculum standards of your college or university.
- Prepare and deliver lectures, facilitate class discussions, and provide students with guidance and feedback.
- Create and grade assignments, quizzes, and exams, and provide students with timely feedback.
- As needed, provide academic advising and support to students.
- Participate in faculty meetings and opportunities for professional development.
- Keep detailed records of student grades and attendance.
- Work with other faculty and administrators to improve the overall student experience.
- Follow the policies and procedures of your college or university.
Qualifications:
- A master’s degree or higher in the subject matter or a related field is required.
- Experience teaching in higher education is preferred.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills
- Expertise in the subject area must be demonstrated.
- Capability to work both independently and as part of a team; dedication to student success and academic excellence
- Work in the evenings and on weekends as needed
The Salary of Adjunct Professor
An adjunct professor’s salary can vary greatly depending on the institution, subject area, and geographic location. Adjunct professors are typically compensated on a per-course basis, which means that their pay is determined by the number of courses they teach.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median hourly wage for part-time college faculty in May 2020 was $29.47. However, this can vary greatly depending on factors such as the subject area, the professor’s level of education and experience, and the geographic location.
Adjunct professors typically earn less than full-time faculty members and may not be eligible for benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, or paid time off. However, adjunct positions can provide valuable teaching experience and may be a good option for professionals who want to teach part-time while pursuing other careers.
Benefits of Adjunct Professor
An adjunct professor may not receive traditional benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, or paid time off as a part-time employee. However, there may be some advantages to working as an adjunct professor:
Adjunct professors frequently have more flexible schedules than full-time faculty members. This can be advantageous for those who have other obligations, such as a full-time job, family responsibilities, or other interests.
Professional development: Adjunct professors can improve their teaching abilities and gain valuable experience in higher education. They may also be able to attend professional development events such as workshops and conferences.
Working as an adjunct professor allows you to network with other faculty members, administrators, and professionals in your field. This could pave the way for future career opportunities or collaborations.
Personal fulfillment: Working as an adjunct professor can be personally fulfilling for those who enjoy teaching and have a passion for their subject area. It enables them to share their knowledge and expertise with others while also making a positive difference in the lives of students.
Supplemental income: While adjunct professors’ salaries are lower than those of full-time faculty members, they can still provide supplemental income for those interested in teaching part-time. This is especially useful for professionals who want to keep their jobs while also pursuing their passion for teaching.
Adjunct Professor Qualifications
Colleges and universities typically require or prefer a number of qualifications to become an adjunct professor. These could include:
- Most institutions require adjunct professors to have a master’s degree in the subject matter they will be teaching. Some positions may also require a doctorate or professional experience in the field.
- Teaching experience: While it is not always required, having prior teaching experience can help you land an adjunct professor position. Experience as a graduate teaching assistant or instructor, as well as teaching in a related setting such as K-12 education or corporate training, may be considered
- Subject matter expertise: Adjunct professors should have a thorough understanding and knowledge of the subject matter they will be teaching. They must be able to effectively communicate this knowledge to students and design engaging learning experiences for them.
- Communication abilities: Adjunct professors should be proficient in both verbal and written communication. They must be able to communicate effectively with students, other faculty members, and administrators.
- Adjunct professors should be committed to assisting students in succeeding and providing a high-quality educational experience. This may entail providing additional assistance to struggling students, adapting teaching methods to meet the needs of diverse learners, and providing timely feedback and assessment.
- Professionalism: Adjunct professors should adhere to the policies and procedures of the institution, maintain a professional demeanor, and respect the diversity of students and colleagues.
Difference Between Adjunct Professor and Professor
The primary distinction between an adjunct professor and a professor is that adjunct professors work part-time or on a temporary basis, whereas professors are usually full-time, tenured, or tenure-track faculty members.
Adjunct professors are frequently hired to teach a specific course or courses, and they are compensated per course. They may not be able to take advantage of the same benefits as full-time professors, such as health insurance, retirement plans, or paid time off. Adjunct professors are also unlikely to be involved in research, service, or administrative responsibilities at the institution.
Professors, on the other hand, are typically full-time faculty members who are employed by the institution on a permanent or tenure-track basis. They are in charge of teaching courses, conducting research, participating in service activities, and contributing to the institution’s overall mission. Health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off are common benefits for professors. They may also be eligible for advancement, tenure, or sabbaticals.
In summary, the primary distinctions between adjunct professors and professors are their employment status, job responsibilities, and benefits.
Conclusion
A part-time faculty member who is responsible for teaching courses in their area of expertise and providing students with a high-quality educational experience is known as an adjunct professor. A master’s degree or higher in the subject area or a related field, teaching experience in higher education, strong communication skills, demonstrated expertise in the subject area, commitment to student success, and professionalism are typically required to become an adjunct professor.
While adjunct professor salaries vary greatly depending on the institution and subject area, benefits may include flexibility, professional development, networking opportunities, personal fulfillment, and supplemental income.
FAQs
A: What exactly is an adjunct professor?
A part-time faculty member who teaches courses in their area of expertise is known as an adjunct professor.
Q: What are the requirements for becoming an adjunct professor?
A: A master’s degree or higher in the subject area or a related field, teaching experience in higher education, strong communication skills, demonstrated expertise in the subject area, commitment to student success, and professionalism are typically required to become an adjunct professor.
Q: How much does an adjunct professor make?
A: An adjunct professor’s salary can vary greatly depending on the institution, subject area, and geographic location. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median hourly wage for part-time college faculty in May 2020 was $29.47.
Q: What are the advantages of working as an adjunct professor?
A: Some advantages may include greater flexibility, professional development, networking opportunities, personal fulfillment, and supplemental income.
Q: What is the difference between an adjunct professor and a full-time professor?
A: The main difference is that adjunct professors work part-time and are paid on a per-course basis, while full-time professors work full-time and are typically on a tenure track. Full-time professors may also receive benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, or paid time off.
