What is a Visiting Assistant Professor Job?
A visiting assistant professor job is a temporary academic position that offers opportunities for scholars to teach and conduct research at colleges and universities. These positions are usually non-tenure track appointments that last for a year or two and are designed to provide faculty members with valuable teaching experience, research opportunities, and the chance to establish a professional network.
What Usually Do in This Position?
As a visiting assistant professor, you will be responsible for teaching undergraduate and graduate courses in your area of expertise. You will also be expected to conduct research and publish scholarly articles and books. In addition, you may be asked to participate in departmental and university service activities, such as serving on committees or advising students. Your duties may vary depending on the institution you are working at and the specific needs of the department you are working with.
Top 5 Skills for This Position
- Strong teaching skills
- Excellent communication skills
- Research experience
- Ability to work independently
- Flexibility and adaptability
How to Become This Type of Specialist
To become a visiting assistant professor, you will need to have a Ph.D. in a relevant field. You should also have a strong publication record and teaching experience. Many institutions also require applicants to have experience with online or hybrid teaching and to be familiar with instructional technology.
You can find visiting assistant professor jobs by checking job boards and academic job websites. You can also network with colleagues in your field and attend academic conferences to learn about job openings and make connections with potential employers.
Average Salary
The average salary for visiting assistant professors varies depending on the institution and location. According to Glassdoor, the average salary for visiting assistant professors in the United States is around $57,000 per year.
Roles and Types
There are many different types of visiting assistant professor jobs available in different fields and disciplines. Some positions are focused on teaching, while others are more research-oriented. Some may require you to teach a variety of courses, while others may be more specialized.
Visiting assistant professor positions can be found at colleges and universities all over the world. These positions may be in different departments, such as English, history, biology, or engineering.
Locations with the Most Popular Jobs in the USA
The most popular locations for visiting assistant professor jobs in the United States are typically in large cities or college towns with a high concentration of colleges and universities. Some of the top locations for these jobs include Boston, New York City, Philadelphia, Chicago, Los Angeles, and San Francisco.
What Are the Typical Tools
As a visiting assistant professor, you will need to be familiar with a variety of tools and technologies to effectively teach and conduct research. Some of the typical tools and technologies include:
- Learning management systems (LMS) such as Blackboard or Canvas
- Online course development tools such as Articulate or Captivate
- Research databases such as JSTOR or ProQuest
- Statistical analysis software such as SPSS or SAS
- Citation management tools such as EndNote or Zotero
In Conclusion
Visiting assistant professor jobs offer an exciting opportunity for scholars to gain valuable teaching and research experience, establish a professional network, and make meaningful contributions to their field. With the right skills and qualifications, you can find a position that is a good fit for your career goals and interests. Keep in mind that these positions are typically temporary, so it's important to continue building your skills and experience to advance your career in academia.