English Professor banner
a English Professor thumbnail
English Professor

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

An English Professor teaches language, literature, and writing. They foster critical thinking and communication skills in students, shaping future generations.

Average Salary

₹7,00,000

Growth

medium

Satisfaction

high

Home/Careers/social sciences humanities and education/english professor
Educational Requirements

Education Requirements to Become an English Professor

To become an English Professor in India, a strong educational foundation is essential. Here's a detailed breakdown:

  • Bachelor's Degree:
    • A bachelor's degree in English Literature or a related field (e.g., Linguistics, Comparative Literature) is the first step.
    • Focus on building a strong understanding of literary theory, history, and criticism.
  • Master's Degree:
    • A Master's degree in English is typically required. This program allows for more specialized study in areas like American Literature, Postcolonial Literature, or Rhetoric.
    • Many universities offer MA programs with specific concentrations.
  • National Eligibility Test (NET):
    • Clearing the NET exam conducted by UGC is mandatory for applying for the position of Assistant Professor in Indian universities and colleges.
  • Ph.D. (Doctor of Philosophy):
    • A Ph.D. is often necessary for securing a permanent position as a professor, especially in top-tier institutions.
    • The Ph.D. involves original research and a dissertation, contributing new knowledge to the field.
  • Additional Skills:
    • Strong communication and presentation skills.
    • Excellent writing and analytical abilities.
    • Passion for teaching and mentoring students.
    • Staying updated with current research and publications in the field.
Study Path
Top Colleges

To pursue a career as an English Professor, choosing the right college for your Bachelor's, Master's, and Ph.D. degrees is crucial. Here are some of the top colleges in India for English studies:

  • University of Delhi (DU):
    • Known for its prestigious English departments in colleges like St. Stephen's College, Hindu College, and Miranda House.
    • Offers BA, MA, and Ph.D. programs with a strong emphasis on research and critical thinking.
  • Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi:
    • Renowned for its School of Language, Literature and Culture Studies.
    • Offers integrated MA/Ph.D. programs with a focus on interdisciplinary approaches to literature.
  • Presidency University, Kolkata:
    • One of the oldest and most respected institutions for humanities in India.
    • Offers BA and MA programs in English with a strong emphasis on classical literature and critical theory.
  • University of Calcutta, Kolkata:
    • Has a distinguished Department of English known for its faculty and research output.
    • Offers BA, MA, and Ph.D. programs with a focus on both traditional and contemporary literary studies.
  • English and Foreign Languages University (EFLU), Hyderabad:
    • A central university specializing in language and literature studies.
    • Offers BA, MA, and Ph.D. programs with a focus on English language teaching, linguistics, and literature.
Fees

The fee structure for courses required to become an English Professor in India varies widely depending on the type of institution (government, private, or deemed university) and the level of the course. Here’s a general overview:

  • Bachelor's Degree (BA in English):
    • Government Colleges: ₹3,000 - ₹10,000 per year
    • Private Colleges: ₹15,000 - ₹50,000 per year
  • Master's Degree (MA in English):
    • Government Colleges: ₹5,000 - ₹15,000 per year
    • Private Colleges: ₹20,000 - ₹70,000 per year
  • Ph.D. in English:
    • Government Universities: ₹10,000 - ₹30,000 per year
    • Private Universities: ₹50,000 - ₹2,00,000 per year
  • Additional Costs:
    • Application fees for entrance exams: ₹500 - ₹2,000 per exam.
    • Study materials and books: ₹3,000 - ₹10,000 per year.
    • Accommodation and living expenses: Vary widely based on location. Note: Fees are subject to change and it is advisable to check the official websites of the respective institutions for the most up-to-date information.
Related Exams

To become an English Professor in India, several exams play a crucial role in your career progression. Here’s a detailed overview:

  • National Eligibility Test (NET):
    • The NET, conducted by the University Grants Commission (UGC), is a mandatory exam for those aspiring to become Assistant Professors in Indian universities and colleges.
    • It assesses the candidate's teaching and research aptitude, subject knowledge, and general awareness.
    • A good score in NET enhances your chances of getting teaching positions in reputed institutions.
  • State Level Eligibility Test (SLET):
    • Some states conduct their own State Level Eligibility Test (SLET), which is equivalent to NET but valid only within that state.
    • Clearing SLET makes you eligible for Assistant Professor positions in colleges and universities within the specific state.
  • Ph.D. Entrance Exams:
    • To pursue a Ph.D., you need to clear entrance exams conducted by various universities. These exams test your research aptitude and subject knowledge.
    • Examples include the JNU Entrance Exam, Delhi University Entrance Test (DUET), and entrance exams conducted by other central and state universities.
  • CSIR NET:
    • Although primarily for science subjects, candidates with interdisciplinary research areas may find the CSIR NET relevant.
  • Other Competitive Exams:
    • Some universities may conduct their own exams or interviews for faculty positions, focusing on subject expertise and teaching skills.
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. Research and publication opportunities.
  5. Contributing to the field of literature.
  6. Flexible work schedule.
  7. Respect and prestige in academic circles.
  8. Opportunities for professional development.
  9. Chance to explore diverse literary works.
  10. Impacting society through education.

Cons

  1. Highly competitive job market.
  2. Extensive education and research required.
  3. Pressure to publish and secure grants.
  4. Bureaucratic hurdles in academic institutions.
  5. Relatively lower salary compared to other professions.
  6. Dealing with student evaluations and administrative tasks.
  7. Time-consuming grading and lesson planning.
  8. Limited career advancement opportunities.
  9. Potential for academic politics.
  10. Keeping up with evolving curriculum and technology.