Professor of Practice Jobs: Definition, Roles & Opportunities in Higher Education

🎓 Understanding the Professor of Practice Role

A Professor of Practice, often abbreviated as Prof of Practice, is a distinctive academic position designed to infuse higher education with real-world expertise. Unlike traditional research-oriented professors, this role targets seasoned professionals from industry, business, or public sectors who transition into teaching to share practical insights. The meaning of Professor of Practice centers on bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and its application, helping students prepare for professional careers. These positions emerged prominently in the late 20th century, particularly in North American universities like Harvard and MIT, as institutions recognized the need for hands-on learning amid evolving job markets. Today, Professor of Practice jobs are common globally, including in regions like the Caribbean.

Historical Context and Evolution

The Professor of Practice position evolved from practitioner-in-residence roles in the 1970s and 1980s, gaining formal traction in the 1990s. Universities sought to differentiate from pure academia by hiring experts who could offer current industry trends. In Barbados, this aligns with efforts at the University of the West Indies (UWI) Cave Hill Campus, where such roles support regional development in tourism, finance, and sustainable energy since the early 2000s. This evolution reflects broader higher education trends toward employability skills, as seen in recent reports on student success.

Key Roles and Responsibilities

Professors of Practice engage in teaching specialized courses, often in professional programs like MBA or engineering. They develop case studies from personal experience, guest lecture on emerging technologies, and foster internships. Responsibilities include curriculum innovation, student advising, and industry collaborations, ensuring programs remain relevant. For instance, at UWI Cave Hill, they might teach hospitality management drawing from Barbados' tourism sector.

• Delivering interactive, practice-based lectures
• Mentoring students on career transitions
• Building partnerships with local businesses
• Contributing to accreditation processes

Requirements for Professor of Practice Positions

To secure Professor of Practice jobs, candidates need specific qualifications tailored to practical expertise.

Required Academic Qualifications

A master's degree in the relevant field is standard, with a PhD preferred but not mandatory, distinguishing it from research roles. In Barbados, institutions value regionally recognized credentials.

Research Focus or Expertise Needed

Minimal emphasis on peer-reviewed publications; instead, expertise in applied research or consulting projects that demonstrate impact.

Preferred Experience

At least 10-15 years in industry leadership, such as executive roles, entrepreneurship, or policy advising. Grants or patents add value but are secondary.

Skills and Competencies

Essential skills include exceptional communication, pedagogical innovation, cross-cultural adaptability, and networking. Proficiency in modern teaching tools enhances candidacy. Actionable advice: Build a portfolio showcasing professional achievements alongside any teaching demos.

Professor of Practice Opportunities in Barbados

In Barbados, higher education institutions like UWI Cave Hill and the Barbados Community College seek Professors of Practice to address local needs in marine sciences, agribusiness, and international business. These roles support national goals for economic diversification post-COVID. Salaries typically range from BBD 10,000-16,000 monthly, competitive with private sector equivalents. Explore related paths via how to write a winning academic CV or becoming a university lecturer.

Career Advice for Aspiring Professors of Practice

Transitioning requires networking at conferences and volunteering for guest lectures. Update your profile on platforms listing professor jobs and lecturer jobs. In Barbados, connect with alumni networks. For broader opportunities, review postdoctoral success strategies, adaptable to practice roles. Tailor applications to highlight transferable skills.

Next Steps in Your Professor of Practice Journey

Ready to pursue Professor of Practice jobs? Browse higher ed jobs for openings, gain insights from higher ed career advice, search university jobs, or post your vacancy via recruitment services on AcademicJobs.com. Stay ahead with trends in higher education trends for 2026.