How to Better Your Chances of Getting a Job as an Online College Instructor

With the increased online course offerings by many colleges, there is a need for qualified instructors to provide the best distance learning opportunities as possible to virtual students. Part of that is by having a qualified and experienced staff. This article will help prospective online faculty understand what it takes, realistically speaking, to get an online college instructional position.

First, know your competition. While at a minimum, most community colleges require a master's degree; your competition will be from all over the country. Therefore, the chances of applicants already who already have higher than a master's degree will be bigger, rather than had the position been local. The higher the degree you have in the field that you wish to teach in, the better your chances are of getting noticed.

Next, "push" your resume. By this, I am referring to getting your resume to the front of the line. Make sure you have some outstanding qualifications, accomplishments, and fellow faculty recommendations; even if they are from another college. Were you active on any committees? How many years of teaching or work experience do you have in the field you wish to teach? While academics are important, just as important is real-world experience. For example, if you are looking to teach Humanities, have you even sponsored a student group on a trip to another country or worked/volunteered at a cultural museum? Look at everything you have ever done and see if it is applicable to the profession. Chances are a having strong academic qualifications plus real-world experience will help you get noticed. Remember to include paid and volunteer experiences on your resume.

Finally, know your contacts. While most resumes go to the H.R. Department, knowing the Academic Dean of a department you wish to work in helps. Consider personally sending an email or telephoning the Dean. If you don't hear an immediate response; don't worry. Schedules are made with full-time faculty first; many whom take off the summer. It may take some time, but eventually an opening may occur. More than likely you will have to be a very part-time adjunct, but it is a "foot in the door" which can help open yourself to similar positions at other colleges.