Teaching Chemistry at Community College: Qualifications and Considerations
When you hold a Master's degree in Chemical Engineering and are considering a career in teaching Chemistry at a community college, the question of whether you are qualified becomes an interesting inquiry. The answer can vary depending on several factors, including the specific college's requirements and accreditation standards.
Accreditation and Guidelines
The requirements for teaching at a community college can differ significantly based on the accreditation body that oversees the institution. In my area, which is under the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACS), there are certain guidelines that need to be met.
To teach a course that is intended to transfer (such as chemistry), the faculty member must have either a doctorate or a master's degree in the teaching discipline, or a master's degree with a concentration in the teaching discipline. Additionally, the faculty member should have at least 18 graduate semester hours in the teaching discipline. Given that Chemical Engineering is not the same as Chemistry, it is important to evaluate these criteria carefully.
Technical Qualification
From a technical standpoint, if the candidate has completed 18 graduate hours in chemistry, it would technically qualify them to teach. This would cover the necessary background and expertise in chemistry. Conversely, if they lack these specific graduate hours, they may not meet the strict technical qualifications as outlined by the guidelines.
Flexibility and Exceptions
Colleges are generally given some flexibility in hiring faculty who do not strictly meet these guidelines, especially when there is a specific need. This can be particularly relevant if the institution is in dire need of a chemistry instructor and there is no one with a true master's degree in chemistry available.
In such cases, the institution may allow the candidate to teach and subsequently provide a written justification for the decision. This justification would detail why the candidate is a suitable fit despite not meeting all the technical requirements.
Personal Fulfillment and Teaching Desire
Beyond the technical qualifications, it is equally important to consider your personal motivations and desire to teach chemistry at this level. Teaching is not just about having the necessary qualifications but also about passion and dedication.
If you are confident in your understanding of chemistry and genuinely want to share your knowledge, then pursuing this career path is a viable option. It's important to answer the question, ‘Do you want to teach chemistry?’ and follow your passion.
Conclusion
In summary, while technical qualifications are crucial, they are not the only factor in determining teaching qualifications. Personal passion, desire, and the college's specific needs all play significant roles. Ultimately, if you are qualified in both the technical and personal aspects and have the passion for teaching, then going ahead with your plans is not only well-deserved but also beneficial for your students.