Becoming a professor is one of the most glorious career choices because it can merge love for teaching with the added pleasure of making contributions toward knowledge creation. Many aspiring educators have had dreams of being able to pass their wisdom down for generations to come. However, on the other hand, the journey toward becoming a professor requires dedication, academic brilliance, and a clear understanding of what really goes on in India’s educational landscape.
All set for an important journey: Learn the essential steps to become a professor. Find out the different types of professors in India and job prospects that are open for one in this field. Whether you have recently graduated or are looking to change your career, this is your guide to finding your direction in the academic fraternity.
Topics covered
What Does a Professor Do?
Professors in higher education institutions mainly teach, do research work, and students’ training. The main responsibilities include developing a syllabus, lecturing a class, guiding a research project, and assessing the work done by students. Additionally, professors support their professions by publishing research in peer-reviewed journals, attending conferences, and consulting with colleagues.
Types of Professors in India
In India, there are various types of professors, each specializing in different areas:
- Assistant Professor
- Associate Professor
- Professor
- Visiting Professor
- Adjunct Professor
- Emeritus Professor
Suggested Read: Being a Professor & Shape Young Minds
How to Become a Professor in India – Step-by-Step Guide
To start out to become a professor in India you must:
Step 1: Â Acquire Relevant Degree
First and foremost, do the undergraduate level in your field. Then, do a master’s degree. A sound academic base is a prerequisite for further study.
Step 2: Acquire a Doctoral Degree
A Doctor of Philosophy, Ph.D., is generally offered to be a professor. This research-based postgraduate degree reflects a deep understanding and full-time engagement with your subject area.
Step 3: Pass the UGC-NET Exam
The University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test is necessary for hopeful Indian professors. Once you successfully pass the test, you are eligible to become an Assistant Professor at any college or university.
Step 4: Acquire Teaching Experience
You may also start by becoming a lecturer or teaching assistant while pursuing or after completing your Phd. The experience will teach you how to teach and boost your academic CV.
Step 5: Publish research papers
Furthermore, publishing research in respected journals is crucial. In this manner, it not only leads to the relevant field but also enhances your profile for academic positions.
Step 6: Apply to Universities
After all the qualifications and experiences are met, start off with the application process by applying for university and college professor positions. Networking or attending relevant academic conferences is another way of ensuring jobs.
How to Become a Government Professor in India
To become a government professor, follow the following steps :
– Earn a degree relevant to the chosen specialization, and continue with a PhD.
That is, clear the UGC-NET or state-level eligibility examinations.
– Get the latest government job updates.
Prepare for interview and selection processes peculiar to government institutions.
Government Professors v/s Private professors
When choosing between a government and private professor role, consider the following comparisons:
| Parameter | Government Professor | Private Professor |
| Job Security | High | Moderate |
| Salary | Generally higher | Varies widely |
| Workload | Fixed hours | May have flexible hours |
| Research Opportunities | Often supported by grants | Depends upon institution |
| Promotions | Structured Pathways | Varies on Institution |
Job Opportunities for Professors in India
There is an increase in the job market of professors in India, considering the increasing growth of educational institutions and more emphasis on research and innovation. According to recent statistics, there has been a marked increase in the number of universities and colleges, thereby enhancing the demand for qualified faculty.
The growth rate in the higher education sector is anticipated around 10-15% annually, and the areas in the sectors of engineering, management, and sciences are perceived to have immense potential. In terms of numbers, the most popular roles include Assistant Professors, Associate Professors, and researchers in both the public and private sectors.
Average Salary of Professors in India
The average salary of the professors across India may vary with the experience, location, and type of institute. PayScale informs that the average salary for the post of Assistant Professor is about ₹6,00,000 per year, Associate Professors get around ₹8,00,000 per year and senior professors get much more than ₹12, 00,000 annually. On the whole, the various components of the salary include basic pay, allowances, and benefits. Source: UGC-PayScale.
Follow these steps and you will be able to sail through your journey to become a professor and you will be among the bright minds contributing to this vibrant academic community in India.
Conclusion
Becoming a professor is a hard but rewarding task, with much education and professional development. Firstly, one has to have a bachelor’s degree, followed by a master’s, and finally a doctorate; these steps guarantee someone an academic status to lead on with their academic career.
Teaching experience will sharpen one’s instructional skills while publishing one’s research will give a wider scope of knowledge as well as publicize one’s credibility and identity in the research world. Once you have acquired the qualifications and experiences necessary, applying for academic jobs will open the doors to this full career as a professor. Welcome the challenges and opportunities along your way, and you will be prepared to carve into the world of education.
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FAQs
It will take about 8-12 years to become a professor, including 3-4 years to complete a bachelor’s degree, 1-2 years for a master’s degree, and 4-6 years for a Ph.D. based on individual cases.
In most instances, a Ph.D. is mandatory for any professional who wants to qualify for a professor position at any university, especially those that are research-oriented. In some colleges, professors are employed with a master’s degree, but such positions tend to go up the career ladder only upon possessing a doctorate.
To become a professor in the University of Delhi (DU), a candidate should have a master’s degree with at least 55% marks, a Ph.D. in a concerned subject, and preferably a cleared UGC-NET qualification./
