As the academic sector continues to evolve, so do the types of employment available to faculty members. Two of the most common types of faculty members are contract faculty and ad hoc faculty. While these two types of faculty may seem similar, there are a few key differences that set them apart.
Contract Faculty
Contract faculty are professors who are hired on a contractual basis for a set period of time, usually a semester or academic year. They are typically hired to fill a specific teaching need, such as a course with high enrollment or a specialized subject area. Contract faculty are part-time employees, and their contracts may or may not be renewable.
One of the benefits of being a contract faculty member is that they can often maintain a flexible schedule. Since they are not required to be on campus all the time, they can often work other jobs or pursue other interests. However, this flexibility can also be a downside, as contract faculty often lack job security and may not have access to the same benefits as full-time faculty members.
Ad Hoc Faculty
Ad hoc faculty, on the other hand, are usually hired on a temporary basis to fill a specific need. This may include filling in for a regular faculty member who is on leave or teaching a specialized course that is not offered regularly. Ad hoc faculty members are also part-time employees, and their position typically lasts for the duration of the need they were hired for.
Unlike contract faculty, ad hoc faculty do not have a set contract and are not guaranteed work beyond the specific need they were hired for. However, they often have more job security than contract faculty since they are filling a specific need within the department.
Which is Right for You?
Deciding between contract and ad hoc faculty positions depends on your individual career goals and needs. If you want more flexibility in your schedule or are interested in pursuing other job opportunities, a contract faculty position may be the better choice. However, if you are looking for more job security and stability, an ad hoc faculty position may be a better fit.
Ultimately, both contract and ad hoc faculty positions play important roles within academic departments. They provide much-needed teaching support and help to ensure that courses and programs run smoothly. Whether you are interested in pursuing a contract or ad hoc faculty position, make sure to research your options and choose the one that is right for you.
