What Does a Professor Do?
Professors teach courses at colleges and universities, conduct original research, and contribute to their academic discipline through publications and professional service. They mentor students, develop curriculum, and participate in institutional governance. Professors hold positions at the assistant, associate, and full professor levels within tenure-track or non-tenure-track appointments.
Professor Duties and Responsibilities
The primary responsibilities of a professor include:
- Prepare and deliver lectures, seminars, and laboratory sessions for undergraduate and graduate courses.
- Develop course syllabi, select textbooks, and design assessments aligned with learning objectives.
- Conduct original research, publish findings in peer-reviewed journals, and present at academic conferences.
- Advise and mentor undergraduate and graduate students on academic and career matters.
- Serve on department, college, and university committees addressing curriculum, hiring, and governance.
- Write grant proposals to secure funding for research projects, equipment, and graduate assistantships.
- Supervise graduate student theses, dissertations, and independent research projects.
- Hold regular office hours to provide students with academic support and guidance.
- Stay current in the field by reviewing literature, attending conferences, and collaborating with colleagues.
- Participate in accreditation processes and program reviews as required by the institution.
Required Skills and Qualifications
To succeed as a professor, you will need the following skills and qualifications:
- Subject matter expertise and scholarship
- Research methodology and publication
- Curriculum development and instruction
- Student mentoring and advising
- Grant writing and funding acquisition
- Public speaking and presentation
- Critical thinking and analysis
- Academic service and governance
Education and Training
Professors must hold a doctoral degree (Ph.D., Ed.D., or equivalent terminal degree) in their academic discipline. The path to becoming a professor typically involves four to seven years of doctoral study including coursework, comprehensive examinations, and a dissertation based on original research. Many new professors complete one or more postdoctoral research positions before securing a faculty appointment. Tenure-track positions require a sustained record of research productivity, teaching effectiveness, and professional service. Some fields accept a master degree for adjunct or community college positions.
Salary and Job Outlook
Average Salary: $65,000 - $150,000 per year
The academic job market varies significantly by field and institution type. Positions at research universities are highly competitive, with many more doctoral graduates than available tenure-track positions. Community colleges and teaching-focused institutions often have more openings. Fields experiencing strong enrollment growth such as computer science, healthcare, and business tend to have better prospects. The increasing reliance on adjunct and part-time faculty is a significant trend affecting full-time employment opportunities.