Associate Professor, Postsecondary / Higher Education

An associate professor educates at a higher-education institution such as a community college, college,, or university. The main job of an associate professor typically is to teach students and conduct research, and they typically have the same job responsibilities as a full professor; the major difference is that associate professors have not yet attained tenure.They are responsible for developing an extensive curriculum, assessment modules, and lesson plans. They then must implement their curriculum to a class of students ranging from small classes to large lecture halls. Occasionally, they may be assigned a specific unit plan to teach, and they must implement the unit they’re given and assess students’ work. Some associate professors act as academic advisers to part of the student body, assisting students in developing a plan for their education. They may also employ graduate students as teaching assistants or researchers.Associate professors typically teach in the area in which they have formal education. Most associate professors are required to have a Ph.D. or master's degree in their field. Associate professors are expected to attend professional development opportunities and staff meetings. They must stay knowledgeable about the field they teach, and stay up to date on new technology and research that should be incorporated into their curriculum. They often print articles in academic journals and attend or speak at professional conferences.

As an Associate Professor, Postsecondary / Higher Education with 9+ years of experience in Australia, your main responsibilities include:

• Conducting advanced research in your field of expertise, contributing to the knowledge base of the academic community. Engage in rigorous research activities, publish papers, and present findings at conferences to advance knowledge in your field.
• Teaching and mentoring undergraduate and graduate students, delivering lectures, and facilitating discussions. Guide and inspire students through effective teaching methods, provide mentorship, and foster a positive learning environment.
• Supervising student research projects, including theses and dissertations, and providing guidance throughout the process. Oversee and support students in their research endeavors, offering advice, feedback, and assistance in conducting high-quality studies.
• Serving on committees, participating in academic governance, and contributing to the overall development of the institution.

For an Associate Professor, Postsecondary/Higher Education, the following qualifications are required:

• A doctoral degree in the related field, preferably with a specialization in the subject area of expertise to ensure in-depth knowledge and understanding.
• Extensive teaching experience at the university level, including a proven track record of delivering engaging lectures, facilitating discussions, and assessing student performance.
• Strong research background with a significant portfolio of scholarly publications and grants to contribute to the institution's research goals and academic reputation.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively interact with students, colleagues, and other stakeholders, fostering a positive learning environment and collaborative relationships.

The role of Associate Professor in Postsecondary/Higher Education is a significant position that requires a minimum of 9+ years of work experience in Australia. However, professionals with such experience can also explore alternative roles in the education sector. Here are four options to consider:

• Dean of Academic Affairs: A leadership role responsible for overseeing the academic programs, faculty development, and curriculum development within an educational institution.
• Research Scientist: A position focused on conducting research, publishing academic papers, and contributing to the advancement of knowledge in a specific field.
• Instructional Designer: A role that involves designing and developing instructional materials, online courses, and curriculum resources to enhance the learning experience for students.
• Education Consultant: A position that provides expert advice and guidance to educational institutions, policymakers, and organizations on matters related to curriculum development, pedagogy, and educational reforms.

The job role of Associate Professor in the postsecondary/higher education sector in Australia is expected to witness significant growth in the coming years. According to a 10-year analysis, employment opportunities for this position are projected to increase steadily. With the growing demand for quality education and research, more academic institutions are likely to hire Associate Professors. It is worth noting that Google may provide the latest data points on this topic, allowing for a more comprehensive analysis.