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College Professors

Education and Training Requirements

High School

Your high school's college preparatory program likely includes courses in English, science, foreign language, history, math, government, and computer science. In addition, you should take courses in speech to get a sense of what it will be like to lecture to a group of students. Your school's debate team can also help you develop public speaking skills, along with research skills.

Postsecondary Training

At least one advanced degree in your field of study is required to be a professor in a college or university. The master's degree is considered the minimum standard, and graduate work beyond the master's is usually desirable. If you hope to advance in academic rank above instructor, most institutions require a doctorate.

In the last year of your undergraduate program, you'll apply to graduate programs in your area of study. Standards for admission to a graduate program can be high and the competition heavy, depending on the school. Once accepted into a program, your responsibilities will be similar to those of your professors—in addition to attending seminars, you'll research, prepare articles for publication, and teach some undergraduate courses.

You may find employment in a junior college with only a master's degree. Advancement in responsibility and in salary, however, is more likely to come if you have earned a doctorate.

Certification

Many colleges and universities offer certificate programs in learning design and technology, educational leadership, and related areas. Programs typically last six months to a year and are available in online, in-person, and hybrid formats.

Other Education or Training

Continuing education seminars, webinars, and other learning opportunities are provided by the professional associations, online learning platforms, and other providers. Contact these organizations for more information.