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 a Canadian higher education institution with 6-9 years of experience, your main responsibilities include:

  • Conducting advanced research in your field of expertise, publishing scholarly articles, and presenting research findings at conferences.
  • Teaching undergraduate and graduate courses, preparing course materials, delivering lectures, and assessing student performance.
  • Mentoring and advising students, providing guidance on academic and career development, supervising graduate student research, and serving on thesis committees.
  • Engaging in service activities, such as serving on departmental committees, participating in curriculum development, and contributing to the academic community through professional organizations.

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 for academic institutions in Canada. However, professionals with 6-9 years of experience in this field may consider exploring alternative roles. Here are four options to consider:

  • Research Scientist: A position that involves conducting independent research, publishing findings, and securing grants to further contribute to the field of study.
  • Curriculum Developer: A role focused on designing and updating educational programs, creating learning materials, and aligning curriculum with industry trends and standards.
  • Academic Advisor: A position that involves guiding and supporting students in their academic journey, providing guidance on course selection, career paths, and personal development.
  • Program Coordinator: A role that entails overseeing the implementation and management of academic programs, ensuring smooth operations, and coordinating with faculty and staff.

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.