HOW TO GET THERE
Typical pathway
A typical pathway is to complete a university education in the subject you want to teach, often followed by advanced study. Requirements vary by institution and field. Some postsecondary instructors have graduate-level education, while others may teach in applied or specialized programs with different combinations of education and experience. Strong knowledge in one subject area is important, along with some teaching or presentation experience if possible. Many people build experience through tutoring, research, labs, assistantships, or work in their field before moving into postsecondary teaching. In many cases, hiring is competitive, so flexibility and ongoing learning can help.
THE WORK
What you may do
Postsecondary educational instructors prepare and deliver lessons, lectures, seminars, and lab or studio activities in a specific subject area. They create course outlines, choose learning materials, and set assignments, tests, and grading standards. They explain ideas clearly, answer questions, and guide class discussions. They may also meet with students outside class to offer feedback or academic support. Many instructors mark papers, keep records, and update course content so it stays current. Depending on the school, they may also take part in program planning, committee work, curriculum review, or research-related duties. The exact mix of tasks can vary by institution and subject.
A DAY IN THE LIFE
What a day can include
A day in this job can start with preparing for class, checking emails, and reviewing notes or slides. During the day, an instructor may teach a lecture, lead a seminar, supervise a lab, or meet with students for questions and feedback. There is often time spent marking assignments, updating course material, and planning the next class. Some instructors also attend meetings with colleagues, discuss program changes, or work on research. The schedule can be busy, and parts of the job may happen outside regular class hours, especially near deadlines or exam periods.
SKILLS TO BUILD