Job Opportunities in Higher Education

Say the term ‘education job’ and the first image to pop into many people’s minds is that of a teacher standing by a chalkboard in front of rows of desks. While teaching in the lower levels is popular and rewarding, don’t forget to consider your employment options in the field of higher education as well.

Jobs within higher education generally fall into three categories: teaching, administration and support services. Each fills a unique role at community colleges, universities and technical schools. In addition, each category has distinct qualification and skill requirements.


Teaching: For most tenured teaching positions at four year colleges and universities, you will likely need a doctoral degree. However, in some departments, a master’s degree might be enough. Community colleges and technical schools may have different requirements.

There are also jobs available in universities as teaching assistants. Graduate students are the most likely candidates for these positions. They help professors grade papers, set up study groups or even teach the class. Working as a teaching assistant not only gives graduate students the opportunity to make a little money, the jobs may also come with perks such as reduced tuition or housing.

Like teaching in the lower levels, college instructors must be well-organized and able to effectively communicate new ideas and theories in a way that is easy to understand. Tenured professors at some universities may also be expected to carry out individual research or study projects in addition to their classroom assignments.


Administration: Administrative jobs at colleges run from the front desk receptionist to the school president. Some entry-level positions may require no more than a high school diploma and the ability to manage multiple phone lines. Certain administrative jobs such as those human resources may require a specific degree or certification. At the upper levels of administration, your degree isn’t as important as who you know and your work experience.

Since administrative jobs serve a wide range of functions, the skills needed to fill these positions will vary. However, most will require computer and phone proficiency. In addition, you will need to be able to communicate effectively both verbally an in writing. For those applying for executive positions, long-range planning and problem-solving are critical skills.


Support Staff: Like any large corporation, opportunities for employment at colleges, universities and technical schools go beyond just the people in the classrooms and those running the show. Sometimes, the most important wheels at an institution are the support staff working quietly in the background. These include food service, janitorial and landscaping crews.

Many support service jobs don’t require any specific educational background. Instead, you will need to demonstrate competency and a willingness to work hard. Although support jobs can be found in any industry, those working in higher education jobs often discover that they have access to a stable work environment, competitive pay and great benefits.


Is a career in higher education right for you? Visit EducationJobSite to find out which institutions in your area are hiring now. Don’t wait – click now!

Maryalene LaPonsie is an accomplished writer who has extensive experience reporting on education, career advancement and workforce development topics. She specializes in sales and marketing consultation as well as general copywriting services.