Embarking on the dual journey of being an assistant professor and simultaneously pursuing a PhD is a challenging but rewarding endeavor that demands a delicate balance of responsibilities. This unique scenario often plays out in academia, where individuals with a passion for both teaching and research strive to contribute to their field as well as pursue their own scholarly endeavors.
For those passionate about research and education, pursuing a PhD and simultaneously working as an Assistant Professor is an attractive proposition. But there is a lot of confusion about whether one can pursue a PhD while being an Assistant Professor. Let us clear all the doubts once and for all so that you can make an informed decision about your career path.
What is the post of Assistant Professor?
One assistant professor Assistant Professor is an entry-level academic rank in the academic profession used in universities and colleges. It can be a permanent position, on an ad-hoc/contract basis or on the path towards tenure. There are two types of Assistant Professor roles based on the level of experience. A fresher Assistant Professor without any experience. A senior Assistant Professor with at least 3 years of post-doc experience in the relevant field. Let’s take a look at the eligibility criteria for an Assistant Professor.
Eligibility Criteria for Assistant Professor
There are broadly two main criteria to become an Assistant Professor.
- Candidate must have Master’s degree in relevant subject with minimum 55% marks.
- Candidate must have qualified the National Eligibility Test (NET) or State Level Eligibility Test (STET) in case of a particular state.
- In many colleges, there is an additional criterion for PhD degree as per UGC Regulations, 2009.
What is a PhD degree?
A PhD or Doctor of Philosophy is the highest level of academic qualification that can be achieved in a particular subject. It is a doctoral research degree that takes anywhere from 3 to 6 years to complete. During this period, the doctoral candidate must research and write a thesis that makes an original contribution to the subject. After completing the degree, you will be awarded the title of doctor. There are two types of PhD. One is called full-time PhD and the other is called part-time PhD.
Full-time PhD– A full-time PhD is a research degree program undertaken by students on a full-time basis, usually involving advanced study and the completion of a doctoral dissertation.
Part-time PhD– A part-time PhD is a research degree programme undertaken by students on a part-time basis, giving them the opportunity to balance their studies with other commitments such as work or family responsibilities.
Eligibility Criteria for Ph.D.
The minimum educational requirements to pursue a PhD in India are:
- The candidate must possess a Master’s degree with minimum 55% marks or equivalent from a recognized university or institute.
- In case of four-year degree, minimum 75% marks or equivalent grade.
- The master’s degree or four-year degree must be in the area of ​​research for the PhD you wish to pursue.
- In addition, some universities also have subject-specific specific requirements.
Difference between full-time PhD and part-time PhD
There are some important differences between a full-time PhD and a part-time PhD. Let’s take a look.
| Difference between full-time PhD and part-time PhD | |
| Full-time PhD | Part-time PhD |
| Obligation to report to your college daily | It is not mandatory to report to your college. |
| Be physically present at the specified periods to meet your guide for progress updates. | You can choose the time and even do so through other means as mutually agreed upon by you and your guide. |
| One can apply for the post of Assistant Professor in the same university/college. | They can apply for Assistant Professor post anywhere they wish. |
| The minimum time to complete it is 3 years. | The minimum time to complete it is 4 years. |
| Eligible for JRF scholarship. | Not eligible for JRF scholarship. |
Apart from these, there are some small, insignificant differences. Beyond these differences, you should keep in mind that it will not affect or hinder your career growth whether you do a full-time PhD or a part-time PhD.
Can you pursue a PhD and become an assistant professor at the same time?
The first question that must have come to your mind is whether it is possible to do PhD along with being an Assistant Professor or not. So the answer is yes! You can definitely do PhD along with being an Assistant Professor.
As long as you meet the individual minimum eligibility criteria for admission to a PhD and for the post of Assistant Professor, you can do both simultaneously. However, you should know that there are two types of PhD. One is called full-time PhD, and the other is part-time PhD.
Both full-time and part-time PhD candidates become assistant professors. A part-time PhD candidate can apply for the role of assistant professor in various universities. However, full-time PhD students can apply in their own university after taking permission from their mentor/guide.
Things to keep in mind while pursuing PhD and simultaneously working as an Assistant Professor
Working as an assistant professor while also pursuing a PhD may seem daunting and unsuitable for many people. Here are a few things you should keep in mind when making your decision.
- You need to submit a NOC from your work stating that they have no objection to you doing part-time PhD.
- Your role as Assistant Professor while pursuing part-time PhD will be on an adhoc/contract basis.
- A PhD degree is not mandatory for candidates applying for the post of Assistant Professor. However, in many colleges, such as IITs, a PhD degree is mandatory to apply for the post of Assistant Professor.
- It can be really difficult to manage both working life and research work simultaneously. So, you should be prepared for a heavy workload.
- To manage your workload and effectively pursue a PhD and become an assistant professor, you can look for collaborative research opportunities to progress in your PhD while actively participating in your teaching responsibilities.
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