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College Professor

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

College Professors educate students in universities and colleges. They conduct research, publish papers, and guide students in their academic pursuits, shaping future leaders.

Average Salary

₹7,20,000

Growth

medium

Satisfaction

high

Educational Requirements

Education Requirements for Becoming a College Professor

To become a college professor in India, a strong academic background and specialized knowledge are essential. Here's a detailed breakdown of the typical educational path:

  • Bachelor's Degree:
    • Obtain a bachelor's degree in the specific subject you wish to teach (e.g., Mathematics, History, English).
    • Ensure the degree is from a recognized university with a good academic standing.
  • Master's Degree:
    • A master's degree in the same or a closely related field is generally required.
    • This degree provides more in-depth knowledge and research experience.
  • National Eligibility Test (NET) / State Eligibility Test (SET):
    • Qualifying NET, conducted by the UGC, is often mandatory for lecturers in Indian universities and colleges.
    • Some states also conduct their own SET exams.
  • Ph.D. (Doctor of Philosophy):
    • A Ph.D. is increasingly becoming the standard, especially for professorships in universities.
    • It involves original research and a dissertation, demonstrating expertise in the field.
  • Postdoctoral Research (Optional but Recommended):
    • Engaging in postdoctoral research can significantly enhance your credentials.
    • It provides opportunities to publish research papers and gain more specialized knowledge.

Key Skills and Qualifications:

  • Subject Matter Expertise: Deep understanding of the chosen subject.
  • Research Skills: Ability to conduct original research and contribute to the academic field.
  • Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills for teaching and publishing.
  • Teaching Skills: Ability to explain complex concepts clearly and engage students.
  • Patience and Dedication: Commitment to continuous learning and academic excellence.
Study Path
Top Colleges

To pursue a career as a college professor in India, obtaining quality education from reputable institutions is crucial. Here are some of the top colleges and universities in India for relevant courses:

  • University of Delhi (DU):
    • Known for its strong faculty and diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
    • Offers excellent programs in humanities, sciences, and social sciences.
  • Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi:
    • Renowned for its research-oriented programs and focus on social sciences and humanities.
    • Offers integrated Ph.D. programs.
  • Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Varanasi:
    • One of the oldest and largest universities in India, offering a wide array of courses.
    • Strong programs in arts, sciences, and technology.
  • Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs):
    • Premier engineering and technology institutes offering Ph.D. programs in various disciplines.
    • Campuses include IIT Delhi, IIT Bombay, IIT Madras, IIT Kharagpur, etc.
  • Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore:
    • A leading research institution offering postgraduate and doctoral programs in science and engineering.
  • Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), Mumbai:
    • Specialized in social sciences, offering excellent programs in social work, human resources, and development studies.

Factors to Consider:

  • Faculty Expertise: Look for institutions with experienced and accomplished faculty.
  • Research Opportunities: Consider the availability of research grants and facilities.
  • Accreditation: Ensure the institution is recognized and accredited by relevant bodies like UGC and NAAC.
  • Placement Record: Check the placement rates and career support services offered by the college.
Fees

The fees for courses required to become a college professor in India can vary widely depending on the type of institution (government, private, or deemed university), the specific course (Bachelor's, Master's, Ph.D.), and the location. Here’s a general overview:

  • Bachelor's Degree:
    • Government Colleges: ₹5,000 to ₹20,000 per year.
    • Private Colleges: ₹20,000 to ₹1,00,000 per year.
  • Master's Degree:
    • Government Colleges: ₹10,000 to ₹30,000 per year.
    • Private Colleges: ₹30,000 to ₹1,50,000 per year.
  • Ph.D. Programs:
    • Government Universities: ₹5,000 to ₹25,000 per year.
    • Private Universities: ₹30,000 to ₹2,00,000 per year.

Additional Costs:

  • Application Fees: ₹500 to ₹2,000 per application.
  • Exam Fees (NET/SET): ₹1,000 to ₹2,000 per attempt.
  • Study Materials: ₹2,000 to ₹10,000 per year.
  • Accommodation and Living Expenses: Vary significantly based on location.

Financial Aid:

  • Scholarships: Numerous scholarships are available for meritorious and needy students.
  • Educational Loans: Banks offer educational loans to cover tuition and other expenses.
  • Assistantships/Fellowships: Many universities offer teaching or research assistantships to Ph.D. students.

To become a college professor in India, several key exams can pave the way for a successful career in academia. These exams assess subject knowledge, teaching aptitude, and research capabilities. Here’s a detailed overview:

  • National Eligibility Test (NET):
    • Conducted by the University Grants Commission (UGC), NET is a national-level exam.
    • It determines eligibility for Assistant Professor positions in Indian universities and colleges.
    • NET is conducted in various subjects, aligning with postgraduate specializations.
  • State Eligibility Test (SET):
    • SET is conducted by individual states in India.
    • It serves the same purpose as NET but is valid only within the specific state.
    • The syllabus and exam pattern are generally similar to NET.
  • Ph.D. Entrance Exams:
    • Various universities conduct their own entrance exams for Ph.D. programs.
    • These exams typically consist of a written test and an interview.
    • The written test assesses subject knowledge and research aptitude.
  • CSIR-NET:
    • Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) conducts NET for science subjects.
    • It is essential for those seeking lectureship or Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) in science disciplines.

Preparing for these exams requires a strategic approach, including thorough knowledge of the subject, understanding the exam pattern, and consistent practice. Many candidates also benefit from coaching classes and study groups.

Exam NameExam Date
Pros And Cons

Pros

  1. Intellectual stimulation and continuous learning.
  2. Opportunity to contribute to knowledge.
  3. Job security and stability.
  4. Respect and prestige in society.
  5. Flexible work schedule.
  6. Opportunity to mentor students.
  7. Research and travel opportunities.
  8. Contributing to society's intellectual growth.

Cons

  1. High educational requirements and long study period.
  2. Competitive job market.
  3. Pressure to publish research.
  4. Bureaucratic hurdles in academic institutions.
  5. Relatively lower salary compared to corporate jobs.
  6. Workload can be demanding.
  7. Dealing with administrative tasks.
  8. Limited career advancement opportunities.