How to Start a New Career as an Adjunct Professor: A Step-by-Step Guide - Blog

by Angela June 10, 2023
How to Start a New Career as an Adjunct Professor: A Step-by-Step Guide

You’re passionate about teaching and eager to pursue a career in academia. Becoming an adjunct professor could be the perfect opportunity for you to share your knowledge and expertise with students. But, it takes some preparation to transition from working as an expert in your field to the classroom. Professor Services has covered everything from crafting a professionally written CV to gaining teaching experience and navigating the application process.

A Professionally Written CV

To stand out in the competitive academic job market, creating a Curriculum Vitae (CV) instead of a resume showcasing your qualifications, teaching experience, and research accomplishments is crucial. Start by highlighting your academic degrees, relevant certifications, and any specialized training you’ve received. Use action verbs to describe your teaching responsibilities and accomplishments.

Hiring managers often use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to screen CVs. ATS look for keywords such as “instructor,” “curriculum development,” and “research.” Incorporate keywords strategically to improve your chances of being noticed.

Gain Teaching Experience

Teaching experience is crucial for aspiring adjunct professors. Consider the following options to gain valuable experience:
1. Teaching Assistantships: If you’re pursuing or have recently completed a graduate degree, seek teaching assistantships within your department. This will provide you with hands-on experience under the guidance of experienced faculty members.
2. Professional Development: Look for groups where you can facilitate professional development workshops or classes. These opportunities will allow you to develop your teaching skills, establish a network within academia, and demonstrate your commitment to teaching.
3. Volunteer or Mentorship Programs: Consider volunteering at educational institutions, community centers, or non-profit organizations that offer educational programs. Mentoring students or leading workshops can help you gain teaching experience while making a positive impact.
Research Academic Job Opportunities

Once you build a solid foundation of teaching experience, it’s time to explore academic job opportunities. Start with your network. Let people know you’re looking to start teaching. Someone may know just the person to provide an opportunity. You can also look at university career websites, social media groups focused on academic jobs, and professional organizations.

Get job leads for academic positions tailored to your search!

Be sure to tailor your application materials, including your CV and cover letter, to each institution’s specific requirements and preferences. Highlight your teaching experience, any innovative teaching methods you have employed, and your ability to adapt to online teaching environments if you are interested in teaching online courses.

Prepare for Interviews and Presentations

When you’re invited for an interview, preparation is crucial. Prepare answers to commonly asked interview questions and think about how you can contribute to the institution’s academic community. Research the institution, its mission, and the courses you may be asked to teach.

Some institutions may require a teaching demonstration or presentation during the interview process. Practice your presentation, incorporating interactive elements, and engage with your audience effectively. Practice interviewing and presenting with trusted colleagues or a mentor.

Embarking on a new career as an adjunct professor requires careful preparation, perseverance, and dedication to teaching. By following the steps outlined above, including crafting a professionally written CV, gaining teaching experience, and navigating the application process, you’ll be well on your way to achieving your goal.

Need help? Not sure where to get started? Chat with Professor Services. Try the online chat or talk with a mentor to see which service fits your time, budget, and career goals. Good luck in your journey to becoming an adjunct professor! We’re cheering for you!
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Angela

Angela Britcher is a writer, communications professor, and instructional designer. She works with The Babb Group and Edusity.
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