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

🎓 What is a Professor of Practice?

The Professor of Practice, often abbreviated as Prof of Practice, is a distinctive academic position in higher education designed to integrate real-world professional expertise into university teaching. This role emphasizes practical knowledge and industry insights over pure academic research, making it ideal for seasoned professionals transitioning from business, engineering, healthcare, or other fields. Unlike traditional tenured professors who focus heavily on publishing scholarly articles, a Professor of Practice brings hands-on experience to the classroom, helping students connect theoretical concepts to everyday applications.

In essence, the meaning of Professor of Practice revolves around bridging the gap between academia and industry. These educators often develop curricula based on current trends, guest lecture on emerging technologies, and facilitate internships or partnerships with companies. For instance, a former tech executive might teach software engineering students about agile methodologies used in Silicon Valley firms.

History and Evolution of the Professor of Practice

The Professor of Practice position emerged prominently in the United States during the 1980s, particularly in professional schools like Harvard Business School and engineering programs at MIT. It responded to criticisms that universities were producing graduates lacking practical skills amid rapid industrialization and globalization. By the 2000s, the role spread to Europe, Asia, and Africa as higher education systems sought to enhance employability.

In Benin, influenced by French academic traditions, similar practitioner roles have gained traction since the 2010s. Institutions like the University of Abomey-Calavi (UAC) have introduced positions to support national development goals in agriculture and public health, aligning with Benin's Vision 2025 economic strategy.

Roles and Responsibilities

Professors of Practice typically teach undergraduate and graduate courses, supervise capstone projects, and mentor students on career paths. They contribute to program accreditation by ensuring curricula reflect industry standards and often lead workshops on professional skills like leadership or negotiation.

• Delivering specialized courses with case studies from personal career.
• Building industry networks for student placements.
• Advising on <a href='/higher-ed-career-advice/employer-branding-secrets-attracting-the-best-talent-in-higher-education'>employer branding</a> and talent attraction in academia.
• Participating in outreach to local businesses.

Required Academic Qualifications, Expertise, Experience, and Skills

To qualify for Professor of Practice jobs, candidates generally need a Master's degree (PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) preferred but not mandatory) in a relevant field. The emphasis is on deep professional expertise rather than academic credentials alone.

Research Focus or Expertise Needed: Specialized knowledge in applied areas, such as sustainable development in Benin or digital transformation globally, with evidence of impact like patents or leadership roles.

Preferred Experience: At least 10-15 years in industry, including senior positions, successful projects, or consulting. Publications or grants are bonuses but secondary to proven practice.

Skills and Competencies:

• Excellent communication and presentation abilities.
• Adaptability to diverse student backgrounds.
• Networking and collaboration skills.
• Commitment to innovative teaching methods.

Actionable advice: Highlight quantifiable achievements, like 'Led a team that increased efficiency by 30%,' in applications.

Professor of Practice in Benin

In Benin, where higher education enrollment has grown 50% since 2015 per UNESCO data, Professors of Practice address skill gaps in key sectors like cotton production and renewable energy. Universities recruit experts from local industries or diaspora to teach in French and English, supporting reforms under the Ministry of Higher Education. Opportunities abound at UAC or the University of Parakou, focusing on practical training amid Benin's push for economic diversification.

How to Land Professor of Practice Jobs

Start by networking at conferences and updating your profile on platforms like <a href='/higher-ed-jobs'>higher ed jobs</a> boards. Craft a standout <a href='/higher-ed-career-advice/how-to-write-a-winning-academic-cv'>academic CV</a> emphasizing practice over publications. Explore <a href='/higher-ed-career-advice/become-a-university-lecturer-earn-115k'>lecturer paths</a> for transitions. In Benin, monitor national job portals alongside international listings.

Prepare for interviews by demonstrating teaching demos with real case studies. Stay informed on trends via <a href='/higher-education-news/6-higher-education-trends-to-watch-in-2026-614'>higher education trends</a>.

Next Steps for Your Career

Ready to pursue Professor of Practice jobs? Browse <a href='/higher-ed-jobs'>higher ed jobs</a>, get advice from <a href='/higher-ed-career-advice'>higher ed career advice</a>, search <a href='/university-jobs'>university jobs</a>, or <a href='/recruitment'>post a job</a> if hiring. Build your profile today for rewarding roles blending practice and pedagogy.