Higher Education Instructor
Overview:
A career as a higher education faculty member involves teaching college or university courses, conducting research in a specific academic field, and contributing to the academic community through service and mentorship. Faculty members design course materials, deliver lectures, assess student work, and stay current with developments in their discipline. Many also engage in scholarly research, publishing their findings in academic journals, and may supervise student research or advise on academic progress. This role requires strong expertise in a subject area, excellent communication skills, and a commitment to education and lifelong learning.
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A higher education faculty member's day-to-day work typically includes preparing and delivering lectures, leading classroom discussions, grading assignments and exams, and holding office hours to support students. They may also spend time conducting research, writing scholarly articles, applying for grants, and attending academic conferences. Faculty often participate in department meetings, serve on committees, and contribute to curriculum development or university governance. Depending on the institution and their role, they might also advise students, mentor graduate researchers, or engage in community outreach related to their field of expertise.
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Salary Expectations and Employment and Outlook:
In Oklahoma, the average annual income for a(n) “Higher Education Instructor “ is “ $58,770 “ (from OKCS). Obviously, the income range for Higher Education Instructors is based on several factors. For more specific information about this in Oklahoma, please visit OKcollegestart
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Watch an Interview with a local Higher Ed Faculty Member:
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Watch a Video (link from OKCS) about a career in “Higher Education Instructor”
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Is a Career as a Higher Education Instructor Right for YOU? What are the:
Working Conditions and Physical Demands:
Higher education faculty members typically work in classrooms, offices, and occasionally laboratories or field settings, depending on their discipline. The job is generally not physically demanding but can be mentally intensive, involving long hours of reading, writing, planning, and research. Faculty often work beyond regular hours to prepare lectures, grade assignments, conduct research, and meet with students. While the environment is usually professional and intellectually stimulating, it can be demanding due to balancing teaching, research, and service responsibilities, along with the pressure to publish and secure funding in some academic roles.
Specific Skills Needed: Higher education faculty members need strong expertise in their academic discipline, along with excellent communication and presentation skills to effectively teach and engage students. Critical thinking and research skills are essential for conducting and publishing scholarly work. They must also have strong organizational and time management abilities to balance teaching, research, and administrative duties. Interpersonal skills are important for mentoring students, collaborating with colleagues, and participating in university committees. Adaptability and a commitment to lifelong learning help faculty stay current in their field and respond to changing educational technologies and methods.
Education Requirements:
While in HS: To prepare for a career as a higher education instructor while in high school, students should focus on excelling in academic subjects, especially in areas related to their intended field of study. Taking advanced courses like AP or honors classes can help build strong critical thinking and writing skills. Participating in extracurricular activities such as debate clubs, academic competitions, or student government can develop communication and leadership abilities. Cultivating good study habits, time management, and a curiosity for learning will also be beneficial. Additionally, seeking out volunteer or mentorship opportunities that involve teaching or tutoring can provide early experience in education. You might also consider taking college courses (concurrent enrollment) while in high school to save time and money. Ask your High School Counselor or a Vista Member for more information.
College or Tech Training: To prepare for a career as a higher education instructor, students typically need to earn a bachelor’s degree followed by a master’s degree or doctorate (Ph.D.) in their chosen field, especially for tenure-track positions at colleges and universities. Graduate programs provide advanced knowledge, research experience, and teaching opportunities that are essential for this career. In some fields or at community colleges, a master’s degree may be sufficient to teach. Gaining experience through teaching assistantships, internships, or research projects during graduate studies is highly valuable for building the skills and credentials needed to become a faculty member.
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Connors State College as well as Carl Albert State College offer excellent associate level programs.Both of these programs dovetail nicely into a bachelor's degree program.
A Note About Transferring
Oklahoma provides for many seamless pathways from local community colleges to regional and state universities which allows you to take advantage of a more cost effective way for you to earn credits at a reduced rate with guaranteed transferability. You can possibly stay closer to home and save money and still reach your academic and career goals. Ask your High School Counselor or a Vista Member for more information.
Other Requirements or Recommendations:
In addition to advanced degrees, aspiring higher education instructors should focus on building a strong record of research and publications, as scholarly work is often a key factor in hiring and promotion decisions. Developing effective teaching skills through workshops, seminars, or teaching assistant roles is also important. Networking with professionals in their field and joining academic associations can provide valuable connections and career opportunities. Patience and perseverance are essential, as academic positions can be competitive and may require several years of postdoctoral research or adjunct teaching before securing a full-time faculty role. Staying current with emerging technologies and teaching methods can also enhance effectiveness and employability in the evolving landscape of higher education.
There are also many “Higher Education Instructor “ Career opportunities in the military. Click Military for more information.
Check out OKcollegestart for more resources related to What To Learn
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