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Melissa
Student
Santa Clarita, California
2
Questions
Updated
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What is the best way to become a professor, if there is one?
I've heard from different people that you ought to become a high school teacher first, at least in English. I've also heard that you should just go get your master's and apply to jobs after that, but that doesn't align with the Internet research I have done. For some context, I would like to become a creative writing professor.
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3 answers
Michelle M.
Actress
2522
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Melissa !
It's not all that complicated, really. All you need to do is obtain a Masters Degree or PhD and once you are credentialed, then apply to colleges and universities to teach the subject(s) you'd like to teach. That's the only way to become a College Professor.
Most likely, after you start this path, you are going to absolutely know if you are ready to apply directly to colleges after you complete your education. It's not so important going by what others say. What is important are the choices you make for yourself and doing it your way. I advise not getting caught up about after-college, rather concentrate on the things you can do now that will help you to become a College Professor. This career doesn't warrant over-analysis or projecting into the future. Take each step one at a time toward your goal and do it the way that's best for you.
What is also important for now is to think about what you will major in (I suggest Education for the Bachelors Degree) and what colleges to apply to. This should be your focus. Explore the opportunities and Program courses at the colleges and choose the one that you like the best. Many students do not yet understand that eventually, not today, students will know just how to take their career after a few years in college. That's the whole purpose - to teach students their career.
Depending on the college or university you attend, you can ask the staff if they offer Teaching Assistant opportunities for their students (who normally major in Education). This experience will be you teaching the professor's class once in a while. Ask about information for this opportunity to whatever college you choose because this would put you right there in a college class setting. Ask at what year level you need to be in in order to have this opportunity. I think many do it while in a Masters Program, but consult with the college's Education Department.
You could Minor in English, Literature or Creative Writing but if your schedule is a bit heavy Majoring in Education, you can take Creative Writing courses online.
See if you can volunteer doing a creative writing group at your local Public Library or in any of the High Schools for now. This will give you leadership skills. Look for any opportunities in your town city or county for Literacy Programs or writing programs offered as Adult Education (night school), or courses for the general public and if you're eligible to teach them.
I hope this helps and I wish you all the best. Stay in the moment and enjoy every step of the way!
It's not all that complicated, really. All you need to do is obtain a Masters Degree or PhD and once you are credentialed, then apply to colleges and universities to teach the subject(s) you'd like to teach. That's the only way to become a College Professor.
Most likely, after you start this path, you are going to absolutely know if you are ready to apply directly to colleges after you complete your education. It's not so important going by what others say. What is important are the choices you make for yourself and doing it your way. I advise not getting caught up about after-college, rather concentrate on the things you can do now that will help you to become a College Professor. This career doesn't warrant over-analysis or projecting into the future. Take each step one at a time toward your goal and do it the way that's best for you.
What is also important for now is to think about what you will major in (I suggest Education for the Bachelors Degree) and what colleges to apply to. This should be your focus. Explore the opportunities and Program courses at the colleges and choose the one that you like the best. Many students do not yet understand that eventually, not today, students will know just how to take their career after a few years in college. That's the whole purpose - to teach students their career.
Depending on the college or university you attend, you can ask the staff if they offer Teaching Assistant opportunities for their students (who normally major in Education). This experience will be you teaching the professor's class once in a while. Ask about information for this opportunity to whatever college you choose because this would put you right there in a college class setting. Ask at what year level you need to be in in order to have this opportunity. I think many do it while in a Masters Program, but consult with the college's Education Department.
You could Minor in English, Literature or Creative Writing but if your schedule is a bit heavy Majoring in Education, you can take Creative Writing courses online.
See if you can volunteer doing a creative writing group at your local Public Library or in any of the High Schools for now. This will give you leadership skills. Look for any opportunities in your town city or county for Literacy Programs or writing programs offered as Adult Education (night school), or courses for the general public and if you're eligible to teach them.
I hope this helps and I wish you all the best. Stay in the moment and enjoy every step of the way!
Thank you so much! That clears up a lot of questions for me!
Melissa
You're welcome. I am happy that it helped !
Michelle M.
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
977
Answers
Port Harcourt, Rivers, Nigeria
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Melissa, that's a wonderful question. It's wise to consider going into creative writing early on because it's not usually an easy path.
As the most advanced degree required in the industry, obtaining a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing is the most popular path. Many institutions employ MFA-holding instructors, particularly if they have a strong writing background that includes publications, literary honors, and a strong portfolio. Although it's not required, teaching high school is an option if you desire the experience.
This is a broad road map:
- Obtain a bachelor's degree, ideally in creative writing, English, or a similar field.
- Build your writing portfolio by publishing short stories, poems, essays, or novels.
-Pursue an MFA in Creative Writing, which helps refine your craft and often includes teaching assistantships, giving you experience teaching at the college level.
-Establish a publication record by getting your work into respected literary journals or publishing a book, making you more competitive for academic positions.
- Apply for teaching jobs at universities, colleges, or community colleges. Most professors start with adjunct or lecturer positions before securing full-time or tenure-track roles.
Despite the competitive nature of the creative writing job market, many professors manage to combine teaching with freelance work, writing, or editing to create rewarding careers. Although there isn't a one ideal path, the most effective ones are getting an MFA, publishing frequently, and having teaching experience.
Best wishes!
As the most advanced degree required in the industry, obtaining a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing is the most popular path. Many institutions employ MFA-holding instructors, particularly if they have a strong writing background that includes publications, literary honors, and a strong portfolio. Although it's not required, teaching high school is an option if you desire the experience.
This is a broad road map:
- Obtain a bachelor's degree, ideally in creative writing, English, or a similar field.
- Build your writing portfolio by publishing short stories, poems, essays, or novels.
-Pursue an MFA in Creative Writing, which helps refine your craft and often includes teaching assistantships, giving you experience teaching at the college level.
-Establish a publication record by getting your work into respected literary journals or publishing a book, making you more competitive for academic positions.
- Apply for teaching jobs at universities, colleges, or community colleges. Most professors start with adjunct or lecturer positions before securing full-time or tenure-track roles.
Despite the competitive nature of the creative writing job market, many professors manage to combine teaching with freelance work, writing, or editing to create rewarding careers. Although there isn't a one ideal path, the most effective ones are getting an MFA, publishing frequently, and having teaching experience.
Best wishes!
Thank you so much, that gives me a lot more clarity about the possibilities out there!
Melissa
You're welcome!
Chinyere Okafor
Faith Brack
Writer
3
Answers
Vidor, Texas
Updated
Faith’s Answer
Hello, I hope you are having a good day. To become a professor, just make sure your writing is top-notch, especially if you want to pursue your master's. The classes take a lot of time and effort than a bachelor's does, but if you are passionate enough about it and have the funds, go for it. I have seen some happy English professors who are fulfilled in their position. I hope this helps!
Hi! Thank you, Faith! That's encouraging!
Melissa