Education Requirements to Become a Professor

I've been thinking a lot about my career aspirations lately, and I'm starting to become interested in becoming a college professor. What are the educational requirements for this career path? Do I need to obtain a PhD? Also, what should I major in during undergrad if I want to set myself up well for this career choice?

Becoming a college professor indeed requires a significant level of education and specialized expertise in a particular field. Here's an overview of the educational requirements to pursue this career path:

1. Bachelor's Degree: The first step is earning a bachelor's degree in a subject relevant to your desired field of expertise. Since college professors are experts in a specific discipline, your undergraduate major should reflect the subject you want to teach. If you're unsure which field you want to specialize in, consider focusing on a major that you're passionate about and excel in.

2. Master's Degree: In some cases, a master's degree may be sufficient for teaching positions at community colleges and some smaller universities. However, it's important to note that having a master's degree alone may limit your job opportunities, as larger universities and more prestigious institutions often require a PhD for full-time faculty positions. Even with a master's degree, it's a good idea to continue pursuing a PhD to improve your prospects.

3. PhD or Terminal Degree: For most college professors, obtaining a PhD or terminal degree (e.g., MFA for Fine Arts) is a must, especially if you aim to teach at larger universities or research institutions. A PhD not only signifies expertise in your field but also allows you to contribute to the academic community through research and scholarly articles. Keep in mind that earning a PhD can take several years and involve intensive research as well as the completion and defense of a dissertation.

While progressing through your academic career, it's also important to gain teaching experience. Many graduate students work as teaching assistants or adjunct faculty to build their teaching skills and develop a professional network. Additionally, you may want to attend conferences, conduct research, and publish articles in your field to establish a strong academic reputation.

In summary, you should major in a subject related to your desired field during undergrad, then pursue a master's degree and a PhD or terminal degree in that field. Along the way, ensure you gain teaching experience and engage in research and scholarly activities to prepare yourself for a successful career as a college professor.