Lecturer, third level

Normally based in institutions of higher and further education, this work involves lecturing to large groups of students, both undergraduate and postgraduate; supervising students in their research activities; planning and preparing teaching materials and exams; designing and developing courses; continuing research and writing; submitting journal articles and presenting papers, often at international events.

Working life

Depending on the lecturing post and the type of institution, the amount of class contact hours will vary as will the salary and the amount of research you undertake.

Lecturers usually have an input to the syllabus of the subject and will run practical classes if necessary. They will also write and correct student assignments and examination papers related to their subject. Attendance at departmental meetings, course board meetings and course development meetings are a requirement in any lecturing post.

Qualifications

The minimum requirement for lecturing is a primary honours degree. It is usual for lecturers in third-level institutions to hold a masters degree or a doctorate. You can acquire some lecturing or tutoring experience while working on a postgraduate degree by research. It is also common practice (particularly in universities) to combine a research career with a lecturing career.

Career paths may vary depending on your fields of study. In general, you need to have in-depth subject knowledge and a high level of qualification. It is also an advantage to have a record of previous work experience in the general area that you will be lecturing on.

Skills required

It is important to be confident, able to communicate well and able to motivate students. Good organisational skills are also essential in managing teaching commitments as well as other duties. In-house training in teaching methodologies may be provided by individual institutions.

Further information

Teachers’ Union of Ireland

Represents teachers and lecturers in vocational schools, community colleges, community and comprehensive schools, institutes of technology, further education and other specialist areas.

Irish Federation of University Teachers