When comparing the appointment process for a Professor of the Practice to tenure-track positions, there are distinct differences in criteria and expectations.
For tenure-track positions, individuals typically start as Assistant Professors, focusing on research and publishing scholarly work. This path aims for promotion to Associate Professor and eventually Full Professor, with tenure as a significant milestone.
In contrast, the role of a Professor of the Practice is primarily centered around teaching rather than research. They are appointed based on their expertise and accomplishments in non-academic fields, such as industry or government, rather than traditional academic achievements.
Assistant Professors of the Practice are required to have several years of professional experience outside academia, often up to six years. They engage in teaching and community development, focusing on current research and inclusive teaching practices.
Professors of the Practice are recognized for their established reputation and significant contributions in their respective fields. Their appointments are typically in areas that require instruction by experienced practitioners, such as health-related fields.
While Assistant Professors in tenure-track positions can eventually apply for tenure, Professors of the Practice are on a non-tenure track, emphasizing their role as practitioners and educators rather than researchers.
Overall, the distinction lies in the emphasis on teaching, professional experience, and reputation in non-academic fields for Professors of the Practice, compared to the research-focused tenure-track positions in academia.
For more information, you can refer to the Wikipedia article on Academic Ranks in the United States and Indeed.com’s guide on How To Become a Professor of Practice.
- What are the criteria for appointment and review for a Professor of the Practice?
- How does the appointment process differ for Assistant, Associate, and Full Professors in academia?
- How do visiting Assistant Professors differ from visiting Associate Professors in terms of appointment duration?