Description

An Assistant Professor in a postsecondary or higher education institution holds an important role in academic settings. They are responsible for teaching undergraduate and/or graduate courses in their area of expertise. Assistant Professors are typically expected to deliver lectures, facilitate discussions and debates, and engage students in challenging and thought-provoking coursework. Additionally, they are required to develop and implement curriculum, design syllabi, assess student performance, and provide feedback and guidance on assignments and exams. They are also actively involved in student advising and mentorship, helping individuals navigate their academic and career paths. Assistant Professors often contribute to the research and scholarly activities of their department, conducting research, publishing scholarly articles, and presenting at conferences. Collaboration with other faculty members and engaging in interdisciplinary collaboration is encouraged. Assistant Professors may also participate in administrative duties, such as serving on committees, participating in departmental and faculty meetings, and assisting in the recruitment and retention of students. They are expected to stay up-to-date with advancements in their field of study and maintain a high level of professionalism and ethical conduct. Overall, as an Assistant Professor in higher education, excellence in teaching, commitment to research, and dedication to student success are paramount.

Roles & Responsibilities

As an Assistant Professor in Canada with 3-6 years of experience in higher education, your main responsibilities include:

  • Conducting research in your field of expertise, publishing scholarly articles, and presenting findings at conferences.
  • Designing and delivering engaging lectures, developing course materials, and assessing student performance.
  • Mentoring and advising undergraduate and graduate students, guiding them in their academic and career pursuits.
  • Collaborating with colleagues on departmental initiatives, participating in faculty meetings, and contributing to the institutional service.

Qualifications & Work Experience

For an Assistant Professor, Postsecondary/Higher Education, the following qualifications are required:

  • A minimum of a master's degree is required, and a Ph.D. is preferred in the relevant field of study. The candidate should have a strong academic background and expertise in their field.
  • Previous experience in teaching at the college or university level is essential. The candidate should have a proven track record of effectively delivering lectures, conducting discussions, and engaging students in the learning process.
  • A strong research background is necessary, including publications in reputable academic journals. The candidate should demonstrate a commitment to scholarly research, staying updated with the latest advancements in the field.
  • Excellent communication skills are crucial for effectively conveying complex ideas to students.

Essential Skills For Assistant Professor, Postsecondary / Higher Education

1

Clinical Study Protocols

2

Training

3

Public Speaking

4

Counseling

5

Writing Skills

6

Design

Skills That Affect Assistant Professor, Postsecondary / Higher Education Salaries

Different skills can affect your salary. Below are the most popular skills and their effect on salary.

Writing Skills

14%

Teaching

13%

Research Analysis

4%

Career Prospects

The role of an Assistant Professor in Postsecondary/Higher Education is crucial in Canada's academic landscape. With 3-6 years of work experience, professionals in this field can consider several alternative roles to further their career. Here are four options worth exploring:

  • Research Scientist: A position that involves conducting research, publishing scholarly papers, and collaborating with other academics to advance knowledge in a specific field.
  • Curriculum Developer: A role focused on designing and enhancing educational programs, creating engaging learning materials, and aligning curriculum with industry trends and standards.
  • Academic Advisor: A position where professionals provide guidance and support to students, helping them navigate their educational journey, choose the right courses, and plan their career paths.
  • Instructional Designer: A role that involves developing effective instructional strategies, designing online and blended learning experiences, and incorporating technology to enhance teaching and learning.

How to Learn

The role of Assistant Professor in postsecondary education in Canada is projected to experience steady growth in the coming years. Over the next 10 years, employment opportunities in this field are expected to increase due to expanding student populations and faculty retirements. According to Google, the demand for assistant professors is expected to remain strong, with an average annual growth rate of around 2-3% in the higher education sector. This growth is driven by the need for qualified educators to meet the rising demand for higher education in Canada. Overall, the future looks promising for individuals pursuing a career as an Assistant Professor in Canada.