Most people would prefer to work from home, and in the world of online learning, that includes being able to teach from home. With virtual learning on the rise, many more colleges now, than ever, are offering online classes. When looking to secure a position as a college-level online instructor there are some important things to consider before sending in an application. After researching positions for many months, here is what I have come to discover:
You have to be academically qualified. – Yes, you do have to have at minimum a Master’s Degree in the subject area. I know in community colleges some will take you as an onsite instructor with a Master’s and 18 credits in a given subject, but since competition is fierce for these coveted online jobs, having a Master’s in the given subject area will just get your application “in the door,” so to speak. Furthering the degree requirement, you will have needed to acquire your degree at least three years ago, as many colleges state that you will need to be a Master’s Degree holder for at least three years before you can apply.
You have to realize that just because you are qualified and meet the minimum posted qualifications, doesn’t mean that you will get an interview. – Yes, this is a bit harsh, but in reality, is a fact. These coveted positions will have applicants from all over the country, as most colleges require that their instructors have regionally accredited degrees. This means that unless you graduated from a school that is regionally accredited, then your degree is insufficient to teach at most schools. Also, there is stiff competition from the “higher ranks,” as Master’s people will have to compete with ABD people, who in turn will have to compete with PhD people, from all over the country. Moreover, there is also current faculty consideration at the given school, as many online classes as taught by the on-campus faculty due to the change in student populations from on-campus to virtual learning students.
Specialize in more than one area to better your chances of getting hired. – If you are planning to get an advanced degree try to specialize to better your chances of teaching. For example, if you have a Master’s Degree in English, try to get your Doctorate in a related area like Humanities. This way you are qualified to teach in more than one area; which makes you more appealing to the Liberal Arts Department. The same can be said for other degree areas and specializations. Just make sure though, that both degrees will be regionally accredited.
While not the easiest thing to get, online instructor positions are out there; especially with the increase of virtual learners. The key is to be a qualified applicant and make yourself “stand out” from the others. Remember: colleges are looking for the best possible person to provide the most enriching experience to students. Market yourself appropriately and you will do just fine.
Disclaimer: Please do not contact me about a job, as your message will not be answered. I am neither an employment agency nor a HR department. Google the college you are interested in applying to, and for more possibilities check out Higher Ed jobs or a similar site on the web.
