Research and Teaching Qualifications for Faculty Positions in Psychology at 4-Year Colleges and Universities

Standards for the evaluation of candidates for faculty positions in psychology differ by institution and applicants’ career level, but no research has attempted to quantify these variations. This study asked faculty ( N = 267) to describe the minimal research and teaching qualifications needed by job candidates at baccalaureate, master’s, and doctoral institutions. Results showed that the minimum qualifications for serious consideration at all three types of institutions included a record of about one publication a year, 2 years of teaching experience, and responsibility for one full course. Minimal qualifications increase based on candidates’ career level and institutions’ emphasis on research and teaching. These results provide some empirical guidance for aspiring professors’ professional development and career decision-making.