Becoming an Adjunct Professor Right After PhD: Possibility and Strategies

Introduction:

After obtaining your PhD, you may wonder about the possibility of becoming an adjunct professor right away. This article explores the feasibility of securing an adjunct position after completing your PhD, along with tips and strategies to increase your chances of success.

Can You Become an Adjunct Professor Right After PhD?

Yes, it is possible to become an adjunct professor immediately after earning your PhD, but the success depends on several factors. Here, we discuss the key considerations and provide guidance on navigating the adjunct professor job market.

Factors Influencing the Possibility

Institutional Requirements:
Different colleges and universities may have varying requirements for adjunct positions. Some institutions may require prior teaching experience, while others may be more flexible.

Field of Study:
In some academic fields, there may be a higher demand for adjunct instructors, making it easier for recent PhD graduates to secure positions. For example, fields with practical applications may have more openings.

Networking:
Connections made during your PhD program, such as relationships with faculty and participation in academic conferences, can significantly help you find adjunct opportunities. Leveraging your network can open doors to potential positions.

Availability of Positions:
The job market for adjunct positions can be highly competitive, and availability may vary by region and institution. Even if there are few positions, being persistent and submitting applications to multiple institutions can increase your chances of success.

Teaching Experience:
Having teaching responsibilities during your PhD can strengthen your application for adjunct roles. Even if you were not officially a teaching assistant, any experience in teaching or mentoring can be valuable.

Real-World Experiences and Strategies

Teaching Experience as a PhD Candidate:
Many schools hire PhD candidates as adjunct professors, often as temporary appointments to save money. This scenario can be common, and it is possible to be rehired for multiple semesters at a time. For example, I taught for three and a half years in two colleges while pursuing my doctorate. These experiences can be valuable, but make sure they are not your sole career focus.

Non-traditional Adjunct Roles:
Adjunct professors are also common in community colleges for instructors who have professional experience but no advanced degrees. For instance, in business courses, instructors are often adjuncts who have experience in the course topic like marketing but are not scholars nor are they in PhD programs. This role can be an excellent stepping stone or a viable career path.

Short-Term Adjunct Solutions

Securing Tenure-Track Employment:
Given the instability associated with adjunct positions, it is crucial to aim for a tenure-track position if possible. This type of employment offers job security and a path to career advancement. However, be prepared to use adjunct jobs as a short-term solution only.

Reassessing Career Choices:
If tenure-track jobs are not available in your field, it is important to reassess your career options. Spending years as an adjunct with a PhD can be detrimental to your career prospects, as it lacks stability and the opportunity for research.

Conclusion

Becoming an adjunct professor right after your PhD is possible, but it requires careful planning and strategic moves. By understanding the factors influencing the job market and leveraging your network and experience, you can increase your chances of success. Remember, securing a tenure-track position should be your ultimate goal, as it provides the stability and opportunities needed for long-term career growth.