Impact of Pursuing a PhD while Holding an Assistant Professor Position in a University

Introduction

More and more assistant professors are pursuing their PhD while holding a position at a university. This trend raises questions about the impact on their professional designation. In this article, we will discuss whether pursuing a PhD alongside being an assistant professor will affect your designation, potential alternatives, and the process involved.

Unaffected Designation

Maintaining your current academic role as an assistant professor while pursuing a PhD typically does not change your designation. Your academic title, assistant professor, will remain unchanged despite the additional pursuit of advanced studies.

Obtaining Approval from the University

It is essential to ensure that you have university approval. Many universities require an application and approval process for students who wish to pursue a PhD while employed as faculty members. The university administration needs to approve the request to ensure that it aligns with their academic standards and policies.

Part-Time PhD Program

Many institutions offer part-time PhD programs, which allow assistant professors to pursue their PhD while continuing to teach and perform other academic duties. This option is particularly attractive because it reduces the impact on your current job and personal life.

Real-Life Experiences

Many assistant professors have successfully completed their PhD while employed, indicating that it is possible to balance both roles effectively. Several ways teachers have pursued their PhDs while holding a permanent position include:

Taking Leave with Pay

Some universities allow their faculty members to take paid leave to pursue their PhD. If you choose this route, ensure that your institution's policies permit it and that you comply with any conditions that come with the paid leave.

Institutional Support

Some universities offer support for faculty members pursuing PhDs, such as research funding, departmental support, or time off. These institutions view the research experience as valuable for the overall academic community.

Conclusion

Overall, pursuing a PhD while holding an assistant professor position in a university does not necessarily affect your academic designation. With the right approval from your university and planning, it is possible to advance your academic career without compromising your current role. Many teachers have successfully navigated this path, and with the availability of part-time PhD programs, the flexibility to manage both roles is easier than ever.