Description

An associate professor educates at a higher-education institution such as a community college, college,, or university. The main job of an associate professor typically is to teach students and conduct research, and they typically have the same job responsibilities as a full professor; the major difference is that associate professors have not yet attained tenure.They are responsible for developing an extensive curriculum, assessment modules, and lesson plans. They then must implement their curriculum to a class of students ranging from small classes to large lecture halls. Occasionally, they may be assigned a specific unit plan to teach, and they must implement the unit they’re given and assess students’ work. Some associate professors act as academic advisers to part of the student body, assisting students in developing a plan for their education. They may also employ graduate students as teaching assistants or researchers.Associate professors typically teach in the area in which they have formal education. Most associate professors are required to have a Ph.D. or master's degree in their field. Associate professors are expected to attend professional development opportunities and staff meetings. They must stay knowledgeable about the field they teach, and stay up to date on new technology and research that should be incorporated into their curriculum. They often print articles in academic journals and attend/speak at professional conferences.

Roles & Responsibilities

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

  • Teach undergraduate and graduate courses, delivering lectures, facilitating discussions, and assessing student performance. Engage students through effective teaching methods, encourage critical thinking, and provide timely feedback on assignments.
  • Conduct research in your field of expertise, publish scholarly articles, and present research findings at conferences. Collaborate with colleagues and students on research projects, secure research funding, and contribute to the academic community.
  • Advise and mentor students, providing guidance on academic and career goals, and supervising undergraduate and graduate research projects. Support students in their personal and professional development, offer academic and career advice, and foster a positive learning environment.
  • Serve on departmental and university committees, contribute to curriculum development, and participate in academic events.

Qualifications & Work Experience

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

  • A doctoral degree in the related field, preferably with a specialization in the subject area of expertise to ensure in-depth knowledge and understanding.
  • Extensive teaching experience at the university level, including a proven track record of delivering engaging lectures, facilitating discussions, and assessing student performance.
  • Strong research background with a significant portfolio of scholarly publications and grants to contribute to the institution's research goals and academic reputation.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively interact with students, colleagues, and other stakeholders, fostering a positive learning environment and collaborative relationships.

Essential Skills For Associate Professor, Postsecondary / Higher Education

1

Research

2

Teaching

3

Word

Career Prospects

The role of an Associate Professor in Postsecondary/Higher Education is crucial to shaping the academic landscape in Canada. With 3-6 years of experience, professionals in this field have various alternative roles to consider. Here are four options:

  • Research Coordinator: This role involves overseeing research projects, managing budgets, and coordinating collaborations between faculty members and external partners.
  • Academic Advisor: As an advisor, you would guide students in their academic journey, assisting them with course selection, career planning, and providing support and mentorship.
  • Curriculum Developer: In this role, you would be responsible for designing and updating academic programs, ensuring they meet industry standards and align with the institution's goals.
  • Instructional Designer: As an instructional designer, you would develop innovative teaching materials, incorporate technology into the learning process, and ensure effective instructional design principles are applied.

How to Learn

According to Google's latest data, the projected growth of the Associate Professor position in the Postsecondary/Higher Education sector in Canada is expected to be positive. Over the next 10 years, the job role is expected to experience steady growth in the market, with increasing employment opportunities. However, the exact number of future employment opportunities is not provided in the given data. It is recommended to refer to official government sources and industry reports for more detailed information on specific job projections and openings in the field.