College Instructor banner
a College Instructor thumbnail
College Instructor

Overview, Education, Careers Types, Skills, Career Path, Resources

College Instructors teach academic or vocational subjects at post-secondary institutions, fostering student learning and conducting research.

Average Salary

₹4,50,000

Growth

medium

Satisfaction

medium

Home/Careers/social sciences humanities and education/college instructor
Educational Requirements

Education Requirements for Becoming a College Instructor

To become a college instructor in India, a strong educational background is essential. Here's a detailed breakdown:

  • Master's Degree: A Master's degree in the relevant subject is generally the minimum requirement. For example, if you want to teach mathematics, you need a Master's degree in Mathematics.

  • NET/SET/SLET: Passing the National Eligibility Test (NET), State Eligibility Test (SET), or State Level Eligibility Test (SLET) is often required, especially for government colleges and universities. These exams assess your eligibility for teaching at the college level.

  • Ph.D. (Preferred): While a Master's degree can get you started, a Ph.D. is highly preferred and often necessary for securing a permanent position and for promotions. A Ph.D. demonstrates advanced research skills and in-depth knowledge of the subject.

  • Additional Certifications: Depending on the subject, additional certifications or qualifications might be beneficial. For example, instructors in technical fields may need industry certifications.

  • Experience: Some colleges may prefer candidates with prior teaching experience or research experience.

  • Soft Skills: Strong communication skills, patience, and the ability to explain complex topics clearly are crucial for effective teaching.

  • Continuous Learning: The field of education is constantly evolving, so a commitment to continuous learning and professional development is important.

  • Specific Requirements by Institution: Always check the specific requirements of the college or university where you wish to teach, as they may have additional criteria.

Study Path
Top Colleges

Top Colleges in India for Aspiring College Instructors

To become a college instructor, focusing on quality education from reputable institutions is crucial. Here are some top colleges and universities in India known for their strong programs:

  • Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs): Renowned for engineering and science programs, IITs offer excellent Master's and Ph.D. programs.

  • Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore: A premier research institution offering top-notch science and engineering programs.

  • Delhi University (DU): Known for its arts, science, and commerce programs, DU has numerous affiliated colleges with strong academic reputations.

  • Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), Delhi: Offers excellent programs in humanities, social sciences, and languages.

  • Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Varanasi: A central university with a wide range of programs across various disciplines.

  • University of Calcutta, Kolkata: One of the oldest and most prestigious universities in India, offering diverse programs.

  • Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), Mumbai: Specializes in social sciences and offers excellent Master's and Ph.D. programs.

  • Presidency College, Chennai: A top college in Chennai, known for its strong academic programs in arts and sciences.

  • Loyola College, Chennai: Another leading college in Chennai, offering quality education in various fields.

These institutions are recognized for their faculty, research facilities, and academic rigor, making them ideal for those aspiring to become college instructors.

Fees

The fees for courses required to become a college instructor in India vary widely depending on the type of institution (government vs. private), the specific course (Master's vs. Ph.D.), and the subject area. Here's a general overview:

  • Master's Degree:

    • Government Colleges/Universities: ₹10,000 to ₹30,000 per year.
    • Private Colleges/Universities: ₹50,000 to ₹2,00,000 per year.

  • Ph.D. Degree:

    • Government Colleges/Universities: ₹5,000 to ₹20,000 per year.
    • Private Colleges/Universities: ₹30,000 to ₹1,50,000 per year.

  • NET/SET/SLET Coaching:

    • Coaching Institutes: ₹10,000 to ₹50,000 for the entire course.
    • Online Platforms: ₹5,000 to ₹30,000 for the entire course.

  • Additional Costs:

    • Application Fees: ₹500 to ₹2,000 per exam/application.
    • Study Materials: ₹2,000 to ₹10,000 (books, online resources).

Note: These are approximate figures and can vary. It's advisable to check the specific fee structure of the institutions you are interested in.

Related Exams

To become a college instructor in India, several exams can help you achieve this career goal. Here's a description of key exams:

  • National Eligibility Test (NET): Conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA), NET is a national-level exam that determines eligibility for Assistant Professor positions and Junior Research Fellowships (JRF) in Indian universities and colleges. It tests your subject knowledge and teaching aptitude.

  • State Eligibility Test (SET): SET is conducted by various state governments in India. Passing SET makes you eligible to apply for Assistant Professor positions in colleges and universities within that particular state. The syllabus is generally similar to NET.

  • State Level Eligibility Test (SLET): Similar to SET, SLET is another state-level exam for determining eligibility for teaching positions. The specific requirements and conducting bodies vary by state.

  • Ph.D. Entrance Exams: If you plan to pursue a Ph.D., you'll need to clear entrance exams conducted by various universities and institutions. These exams assess your research aptitude and subject knowledge.

  • UGC-NET: The University Grants Commission (UGC) NET is a widely recognized exam for those aspiring to teach at the college and university level. Clearing this exam enhances your chances of securing a teaching position.

  • CSIR-NET: For science-related subjects, the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) conducts the CSIR-NET exam. This exam is essential for those seeking teaching positions in science and technology fields.

Exam NameExam Date
Pros And Cons

Pros

  1. Intellectual Stimulation and continuous learning.
  2. Opportunity to shape young minds.
  3. Job security, especially with tenure.
  4. Respect and recognition in society.
  5. Contribution to research and knowledge.
  6. Flexible work schedule (in some cases).
  7. Access to resources and facilities.
  8. Personal satisfaction from teaching.

Cons

  1. High educational qualifications required.
  2. Competitive job market.
  3. Lower salary compared to some industries.
  4. Administrative responsibilities.
  5. Dealing with diverse student needs.
  6. Pressure to publish research.
  7. Constant evaluation and scrutiny.
  8. Limited career advancement without a Ph.D.