What type of degree is required to become a professor?

I'm really interested in potentially becoming a college professor someday. Can anyone tell me what level of education is necessary to achieve this? For example, would I need a master's degree, or is a PhD generally required? Any insights would be super helpful!

To become a college professor, you typically need to earn a doctorate degree, which is a Ph.D. in your field of interest. In most cases, a master's degree alone is not sufficient for getting a tenure-track faculty position at a college or university. However, a master's degree may be enough for some teaching positions, especially at community colleges or for part-time, adjunct, or non-tenure track positions at four-year institutions.

It's important to note that the specific requirements for becoming a college professor can vary depending on the institution, the department, and the field of study. For instance, professors in certain professional fields, such as law, business, or art, may not always require a Ph.D. but rather other professional degrees or experiences like a J.D., M.F.A., or extensive industry experience. In these cases, it's essential to research the specific faculty requirements for your field and the type of institution you're targeting.

In addition to the educational requirements, you'll need to gain teaching and research experience during your graduate studies. Many Ph.D. programs include opportunities to teach and conduct research, such as serving as a teaching or research assistant. These experiences not only improve your teaching and research skills but also enhance your CV, demonstrate your commitment to academia, and make you a more competitive candidate for faculty positions.

Finally, after earning your Ph.D. and building up relevant experience, you'll need to apply and interview for academic positions. The job market can be quite competitive, especially for tenure-track positions, so networking, publications, and conference presentations can all help demonstrate your expertise and increase your chances of being hired.