Psychology Professor

Education Requirements

Normally Needed

Doctorate Degree related to a teaching/research specialty.

Note: The exception to the above requirement applies to teaching in Visual Arts Departments. Faculty in these departments require an appropriate (Terminal) Master of Fine Arts (MFA) Degree and related experience.

Career Pathway Advice

Before Graduation

• Gain Work Experiences. (e.g., Co-op Education, Internships, Work Integrated Learning).
• Be Curious. Ask questions about the work environment and day-to-day tasks of a job. This includes reaching out to professionals in the field, faculty, counsellors/advisors, neighbours and friends.
• Develop Power Skills. (e.g., oral and written communication, teamwork & leadership, problem solving, critical thinking, innovation & creativity, and engaging diversity).
• Know Your Transferable Skills. Understand how the skills you are learning in your program meet or transfer to the requirements of your intended job.
• Develop Digital Literacy. Be able to find, communicate, create, and edit files online (e.g., Word, Excel, Outlook, Adobe).
• Be Grade Point Average (GPA) Aware. Know the minimum grade point average needed for admission to your desired graduate or professional program.
• Pursue Mentorship and Network Opportunities. (e.g., information interviews, developing relationships with someone working in the field, joining professional organizations, job shadowing, or volunteering).
• Prepare Your Job Search Documents. (e.g., LinkedIn profile, CV/Resume, cover letter, and portfolio).
• Practice your Interview Skills. Research common interview questions employers use, develop short stories you can use to demonstrate your skills and experience, and seek help from a career centre, family, or friends to do mock interviews.

After Graduation

• Seek mentorship from co-workers and supervisors.
• Participate in ongoing learning and professional development.
• Build network relationships with other industry professionals.
• Keep your job search documents updated.
• Research the training opportunities offered by your employer.
• Build your brand by using social media, LinkedIn, and through professional memberships or associations.

 Spotlight Requirements

• Content expertise.
• A proven record of research and publications.
• Teaching experience.
• The career path for professors typically goes from Assistant Professor to Associate Professor to Full Professor.

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