How to be a university lecturer?

Becoming a university lecturer is a career decision that gives people the opportunity to develop their academic research further without sacrificing their income. Lecturers also benefit from providing the structured learning and development of the next generation entering their field. For those contemplating a career as a lecturer, here are the main pros and cons.

 

Advantages

Research time

Becoming a university lecturer offers the freedom for research. Such intellectual freedom is rare; there are few roles that allow workers time to pursue passions like this. 

Job satisfaction

Another major benefit is the lecture model. University lecturers have a more fluid approach to their work, and can discuss ideas and theories with students rather than teaching them per se. Lecturers can spend less time explaining and more time debating.

Mentoring students

Mentoring students is a key element of a career as a university lecturer. Mentoring helps students develop and get the most out of their further education by providing support and building trust. 

Flexibility

A career as a university lecturer is flexible. The structure of a typical working week allows lecturers time to juggle work and home life. That’s not to say that they won’t also need to work hard, and many lecturers make up their time by working late or starting early, but for work-life balance, this career can be a good one. Lecturers can even take a sabbatical, taking a few months off from their normal teaching duties to carry out additional research.

Travel

Lecturers are often asked to visit other universities in various parts of the country or even overseas. Another opportunity is the chance to attend talks and conventions around the globe.

 

Disadvantages

Intense competition

One of the problems many hopefuls come across is that there are far more qualified lecturers than they are places for them to work. Competition is fierce, and even if they are highly talented with plenty of experience, finding a permanent university job can be difficult. Lecturers might have to take on temporary contracts, reducing long-term job security and increasing the likelihood of frequent relocation.

Pay

Money is another factor that can deter potential university lecturers. Although they're not considered low-paid workers, and their compensation is usually going to be enough to have a comfortable life, their pay doesn’t always reflect the hours they put in.

Working hours

Long hours can be a problem if you're a university lecturer. Although one of the benefits is flexibility of the work, that work still needs to be done. Working at evenings and over weekends is typical and even expected.

The benefits of being a university lecturer will, for the right person, far outweigh the negatives. The idea of being able to shape young minds, work on subjects you love and have the opportunity for real research is exciting. It's no wonder academia is something that those with the gift for teaching and learning want to work