Postsecondary Teachers

Postsecondary Teachers instruct and educate students at colleges, universities, and professional schools. They develop and deliver course content, conduct research, and mentor students to support learning and academic growth. Their work is critical in higher education, professional training, and knowledge development.

This career is well suited for individuals who enjoy teaching, research, and working with students.

What Do Postsecondary Teachers Do?

These professionals design curriculum, teach courses, and evaluate student performance while contributing to research and academic development.

Common responsibilities include:

• Preparing and delivering lectures, seminars, and course materials
• Developing curriculum and instructional content
• Evaluating and grading student work
• Conducting research in their field and publishing findings
• Advising and mentoring students on academic and career matters
• Participating in departmental and university committees
• Staying current with developments in their discipline

Key Areas of Postsecondary Teaching

Postsecondary teachers may specialize in specific subjects or academic functions:

• Subject Instruction: Teaching courses within a specialized academic discipline
• Research and Scholarship: Conducting studies and publishing results in journals
• Student Advising and Mentoring: Supporting academic and career development of students
• Curriculum Development: Designing programs, courses, and instructional materials
• Professional Service: Participating in committees, conferences, and academic organizations

Skills and Abilities Needed

Postsecondary teachers combine subject-matter expertise with teaching and research skills.

Core Professional Skills

- Expertise in a specific academic discipline - Teaching, presentation, and instructional skills - Curriculum design and assessment - Research, analysis, and scholarly writing - Student advising and mentoring - Collaboration with faculty and academic staff

Personal Qualities That Matter

- Strong communication and interpersonal skills - Analytical and critical thinking ability - Patience, creativity, and adaptability - Organization and time-management skills - Commitment to lifelong learning and scholarship - Mentoring and leadership ability

Education and Career Pathway

This role typically requires advanced education and academic training:

• Master’s or Doctoral Degree: Advanced degree in the teaching discipline (Doctorate often required for tenure-track positions)
• Teaching Experience: Graduate assistantships, adjunct teaching, or tutoring experience
• Research Experience: Conducting studies, publishing, and presenting at conferences
• Professional Development: Workshops, continuing education, or discipline-specific training
• Tenure or Certification (varies by institution): Meeting institutional requirements for permanent academic positions

Where Do Postsecondary Teachers Work?

They are employed in higher education and professional training institutions:

• Colleges and Universities
• Community and Technical Colleges
• Professional Schools and Trade Programs
• Research Institutions
• Online and Distance Education Platforms

Work environments include classrooms, laboratories, offices, and research facilities.

Is This Career Difficult?

This career requires mastery of a subject area, teaching ability, and research competency. Teachers must balance instruction, research, and administrative duties while engaging students effectively.

Who Should Consider This Career?

This career may be a strong fit if you:

• Enjoy teaching and mentoring students
• Are committed to research and academic growth
• Have strong communication and organizational skills
• Can manage multiple responsibilities and deadlines
• Want a career advancing knowledge and learning in higher education

How to Prepare Early

• Take courses in your academic discipline and education methods
• Gain experience through tutoring, teaching assistantships, or adjunct roles
• Participate in research projects or academic studies
• Develop communication, presentation, and instructional skills
• Explore graduate programs or advanced degrees relevant to your field

Postsecondary teachers educate and mentor students, conduct research, and contribute to academic development, shaping knowledge and preparing learners for professional and personal success.