Is it Possible to Get Hired as an Assistant Professor Without a PhD or Publications?

The conventional wisdom in academia is that obtaining a PhD is almost an essential criterion for securing a position as an assistant professor. This article delves into the intricacies of this issue and provides insights for those aspiring to enter the academic profession.

Universal Requirement for the PhD Degree

On a broad scale, it is virtually impossible to secure a tenure-track assistant professor position without a PhD. This requirement is a fundamental rule across most academic disciplines in the United States and beyond. As Maria, a seasoned academic and SEO expert, puts it, 'In almost every case, you won't get hired as a tenure-track full-time assistant professor without an appropriate terminal degree, typically a PhD.'

Exception in Performance-Based Fields

There are specific instances, particularly within performance-based fields, where the professors do not necessarily require a PhD. For example, in music performance disciplines, individuals can be hired as assistant professors with only a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degree. Maria notes that this is more common in music schools such as Julliard or Eastman. These candidates typically possess exceptional performance skills, secure positions in orchestras, and have significant touring schedules or international competition victories. However, securing such positions still demands an extraordinary level of dedication and talent.

Chances with Terminal Degrees

For fields where an MFA is considered the terminal degree, such as music, art, and creative writing, candidates can indeed land assistant professor positions. This is because the MFA demonstrates a high level of expertise and artistic proficiency. However, the traditional path of obtaining a PhD remains the dominant route, primarily due to the strong emphasis on research in academic settings.

The Role of Accreditation

It is also crucial to understand the regulatory aspect of terminal degrees. Accreditation agencies, which are responsible for ensuring the quality of educational programs, require that terminal degrees, like the PhD, be in place for employment in higher education positions.

Uncommon Yet Possible Cases

While the majority of academic positions are open only to those with a PhD, Maria acknowledges that there might be rare instances where someone with extraordinary accomplishments could be hired without a PhD. However, she emphasizes that these cases are exceedingly rare. She mentions that she has never personally witnessed such an instance but often wonders whether pursuing a PhD might be simpler than accumulating a wealth of accomplishments.

Chances in Teaching-Oriented Schools

There exists a theory that one might have a better chance at non-research oriented, teaching schools where a PhD is not a necessity. However, these schools are few and far between. Maria states that even at these institutions, there are typically more qualified candidates with PhDs for the available positions.

Conclusion

While the conventional path to becoming an assistant professor involves obtaining a PhD, there are rare exceptions, particularly in performance-based fields. Nonetheless, the traditional route involving a PhD is the most reliable and commonly accepted path in the academic world. For those lacking a PhD or publications, it is essential to understand that these are exceptionally uncommon situations and that a PhD might be the more practical route to achieve academic success.