Why Many Colleges Prefer Adjunct Professors Over Tenure-Track Faculty

Colleges and universities across the United States are increasingly turning to adjunct professors as a cost-effective solution, rather than hiring tenure-track or tenured faculty. This shift, often referred to as 'adjunctification,' raises questions about the quality of education, the well-being of professors, and the overall academic environment. Here, we explore the reasons behind this trend and its implications.

Money: The Driving Force Behind Adjunct Hiring

The primary reason for hiring adjunct professors is cost. Tenure-track or tenured faculty members come with substantial benefits and job security, which can significantly increase the university's expenses. Adjuncts, on the other hand, are typically hired as independent contractors, paid less, and receive fewer benefits. This makes them a more financially attractive option for many institutions.

Comparing Adjuncts and Tenured Professors

Adjunct professors are often seen as second-class citizens in the academic world. They work without job security, health benefits, or retirement plans. In contrast, tenure-track professors enjoy a sense of stability and job security. They also receive benefits such as health insurance, retirement contributions, and paid research time. This contrast is best illustrated by the comparison between the lifestyle of adjuncts and tenured faculty members.

Adjunct instructors frequently work long hours and juggle multiple teaching assignments. They are often paid hourly and are considered independent contractors, with no job tenure or benefits. In contrast, tenure-track professors have a healthier work-life balance, with the freedom to pursue research and other professional interests. For example, tenure-track professors might be able to take an unpaid year off to study, which is practically unimaginable for adjuncts. Adjuncts, by nature, cannot take such breaks as they are expected to teach consistently.

The Impact on College Education

The trend of relying heavily on adjuncts for teaching has led to a phenomenon known as 'adjunctification.' This has several consequences for the quality of education and the overall academic environment. Firstly, adjuncts often teach more classes than their tenured colleagues. This can lead to a situation where senior faculty members, who would ideally have more time to focus on research, mentoring, and program development, are left spreading themselves thin to manage a large number of adjuncts.

For instance, a department chair might be responsible for supervising 100 adjuncts, leaving them with less time to develop and oversee programs, mentor students, and develop internships and job leads for them. This can result in a dilution of attention and support for students. Additionally, students might not receive the personalized attention they would from a tenured faculty member, who has more time for one-on-one interactions and academic advising.

Interestingly, studies have shown that adjuncts can teach as effectively, if not more effectively, than full-time professors. Their educational methods are often driven by the need to adapt and innovate due to their lack of job security. This can bring fresh, dynamic teaching methods to the classroom. However, these positive aspects do not mitigate the broader systemic issues associated with adjunctification.

Current Trends at My University

According to my own experience, my current university does not heavily rely on adjuncts. Instead, we have a rotating stream of visiting professors. These professors typically come with longer contracts, providing stability for both the department and the professor. They often transition to full-time positions at other reputable institutions after leaving, highlighting the value of their contributions. Visiting professorships often offer many of the same benefits as tenure-track positions, except for the tenure itself.

Conclusion: Balancing Cost and Quality

The trend of hiring adjunct professors over tenure-track faculty raises important questions about the balance between financial considerations and the quality of higher education. While cost savings are a significant factor, the potential negative consequences for students and faculty should not be overlooked. It is essential for universities to strive for a sustainable approach that provides adequate support and resources to both teaching staff and students, ensuring high-quality education and a positive academic environment.