How to Become a Professor?
Explore how to become a professor after 12th science, the educational path, key qualifications, and career prospects in India
In this Career Outline
Introduction to Professor
"A great professor plants the seeds of curiosity, and nurtures the growth of knowledge." – Aristotle
Professors teach various academic and professional courses at higher education institutions, vocational programs, and technical classrooms. They conduct research, write academic papers, and design curricula to meet educational standards. Professors assess student progress, guide course selection, and oversee doctoral students. They also participate in committees that set regulations, approve budgets, and make hiring and promotion decisions.
Steps to Become a Professor:
Step-1
Select a subject area you’re passionate about, such as science, humanities, or commerce.
Step-2
After 12th grade, pursue a relevant bachelor’s degree (e.g., B.Sc., B.A., B.Com.) based on your subject.
Step-3
Enroll in a master’s program (M.A., M.Sc., M.Com.) to deepen your knowledge.
Step-4
Pass the UGC-NET or similar exams to be eligible for teaching positions and fellowships.
Step-5
Pursue a PhD in your field, focusing on original research to meet university requirements for professorship.
Step-6
Work as an assistant professor or research scholar to build teaching and research skills.
Step-7
Publish research papers and attend conferences to enhance your academic credentials and career growth.
Eligibility Criteria
| Eligibility Criteria | Description |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Must possess at least 50% aggregate marks in 12th grade from a recognized board (PUC/CBSE/ICSE/ISC, etc.). |
| Educational Background | High school diploma or equivalent. |
| Undergraduate Degree | A B.Ed or a Diploma in education is required to enter the teaching profession. |
| Postgraduate Degree | A Master’s in Education (M.Ed) is helpful for higher degrees and advanced learning opportunities. |
| Entrance Exams | Must have a valid score in exams such as CTET, STET, CSIR UGC NET, HPTET, UPTET, KVPY, TNTET, or BTET. Different states have their own entrance exams. |
- Must have at least 50% aggregate in 12th grade from any recognized board (PUC/CBSE/ICSE/ISC), though cut-off varies by college.
- Need valid scores in entrance exams after 12th like CTET, STET, CSIR UGC NET, HPTET, UPTET, KVPY, TNTET, or BTET. State-specific exams may also apply.
- Required to complete a B.Ed or a Diploma to start a career as a Professor.
- A Master’s in Education (M.Ed) can enhance qualifications for advanced roles.
- A Ph.D. is necessary for pursuing a career as a Professor.
Not eligible to pursue this career?
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Tasks to perform as a Professor:
Knowledge & Skills Required
Professors must possess a wide array of skills to succeed in their careers. Here are the key knowledge areas and skills needed to excel in this field:
| Knowledge Required | |
|---|---|
| Deep understanding of the chosen academic field. | Knowledge of research techniques and methodologies. |
| Understanding of effective teaching strategies. | Awareness of current educational standards and policies. |
| Ability to write and publish research papers. | Familiarity with digital tools used in teaching. |
| Skills Required | |
|---|---|
| Critical Thinking | Leadership |
| Time Management | Communication Skills |
| Interpersonal Skills | Public Speaking |
Understanding What are soft skills? and why is it important,as they complement technical abilities and enhance overall performance in the field of Professor.
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Your career may not align with your interests. Identify them and match with careers requiring those skills for faster growth and success!
Job roles offered for a Professor:
Once you qualify as a Professor, you have diverse career options:
Teach various science subjects, conduct research, supervise graduate students, and enhance the institution's reputation. Requires at least 8 years of post-secondary education, including a Ph.D.
Educate students in cooking, both theoretically and practically. Teach proper use of culinary tools, safety standards, and industry practices. Also, offer basic cooking workshops to the community.
Engage with students to impart knowledge in fundamental and specialized subjects. Create curriculum, manage classrooms, and foster a positive learning environment.
Teach specific subjects at post-secondary institutions. Typically, lecturers handle individual courses, provide practical and theoretical instruction, and must be well-versed in their subject matter.
Design and create educational materials and programs for various fields, not limited to education. This role may involve evaluating educational processes or writing textbooks.
Not sure where you fit in?
With countless career options, choosing the right path can be tough. Analysis and guidance sessions help clarify what to study, pursue, and achieve.
Career Opportunities for a Professor:
Professors can opt for various fields of work in the companies listed below:
| Amity University | Chandigarh University | Lovely Professional University |
| Aakash Educational Services | SRM Institute of Science of Technology | FIITJEE |
| Manipal University | VIT University | Futuup |
Colleges offering courses for Professor:
Here is the list of colleges offering the Best courses after 12th:
| IGNOU Delhi - Indira Gandhi National Open University | JMI New Delhi - Jamia Millia Islamia |
| SRM University Chennai - SRM Institute of Science and Technology | MSU Baroda - Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda |
| LPU Jalandhar - Lovely Professional University | Christ University, Bangalore |
| Jadavpur University, Kolkata | BHU Varanasi - Banaras Hindu University |
| GGSIPU Delhi - Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University | UNIPUNE (Pune University) - Savitribai Phule Pune University |
End Note
Becoming a Professor is a long yet rewarding journey that allows you to shape future generations. Whether you're passionate about science, literature, or social studies, pursuing a career in academia offers endless opportunities for growth and contribution to society. If you're ready to take the first step toward becoming a professor, SetMyCareer is here to guide you through Career counselling after graduation along with your career goals. Connect with our experts today!
In this Career Outline
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