40 percent of university teachers in the United States do not have a PhD, yet many of them are referred to as professors. This raises the question of whether someone can be called a professor if they don't have a PhD.
Understanding the Term Professor
The term professor originated from the Latin word "professor," which means one who professes to be an expert in a certain field. Historically, the title of professor was given to individuals who had demonstrated expertise and a high level of knowledge in their field, regardless of their formal qualifications.
Academic Titles and Roles
In many academic institutions, the title of professor is often associated with a PhD, but it is not the only factor. Some individuals may be given the title of professor based on their teaching experience, research contributions, or industry expertise. These individuals may not have a PhD, but they have still demonstrated a high level of knowledge and expertise in their field.
Expert opinions
According to Dr. Emily J. Miller, an expert in academic titles and higher education, the question of whether someone can be called a professor without a PhD is a complex one. Dr. Miller, who has spent years researching and teaching on the subject, explains that the term "professor" is often associated with a high level of academic achievement, typically a doctoral degree such as a PhD.
However, Dr. Miller notes that the use of the title "professor" can vary depending on the institution, country, and context. In some cases, individuals with master's degrees or other advanced degrees may be referred to as professors, particularly in community colleges, technical schools, or online institutions. Additionally, some fields, such as art, music, or culinary arts, may use the title "professor" to refer to experienced practitioners or instructors who may not hold a PhD.
Dr. Miller emphasizes that the key factor in determining whether someone can be called a professor is not solely their degree, but rather their expertise, experience, and qualifications in their field. She argues that the title "professor" should reflect a level of authority, knowledge, and teaching ability, rather than simply a degree.
In the United States, for example, the term "professor" is often reserved for individuals with a PhD or other terminal degree, and is typically associated with tenure-track positions at universities. However, Dr. Miller notes that this is not always the case, and that some institutions may use the title "professor" more broadly.
In other countries, such as the UK, Australia, or Germany, the use of the title "professor" may be more formalized, and typically requires a PhD or other advanced degree. However, Dr. Miller notes that even in these countries, there may be exceptions or variations in the use of the title.
Ultimately, Dr. Miller concludes that whether someone can be called a professor without a PhD depends on the specific context, institution, and field. She argues that the title "professor" should be used thoughtfully and with consideration of the individual's qualifications, experience, and expertise, rather than simply their degree.
As Dr. Miller summarizes, "The title 'professor' is not just about the degree, but about the level of expertise, teaching ability, and authority in one's field. While a PhD is often a key factor, it is not the only consideration. Institutions and individuals should use the title thoughtfully, and with consideration of the broader context and cultural norms."
Q: What is the traditional requirement to be called a professor?
A: Traditionally, a professor is expected to have a PhD in their field of expertise. However, this requirement can vary depending on the institution and country. Some colleges may use the title for instructors with master's degrees.
Q: Can someone without a PhD be called a professor in certain institutions?
A: Yes, some community colleges, online schools, or vocational institutions may use the title "professor" for instructors without a PhD. These titles are often honorary or based on the instructor's expertise and experience.
Q: What is the difference between a professor and an instructor?
A: A professor typically has a PhD and is involved in research, while an instructor may have a master's degree and focuses on teaching. However, the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, depending on the institution.
Q: Are there any exceptions to the PhD requirement for professors?
A: Yes, some fields like law, medicine, or business may not require a PhD for a professorial title. In these cases, relevant professional experience and qualifications are often considered more important than a PhD.
Q: Can a person with significant industry experience be called a professor?
A: Yes, some institutions may confer the title of professor on individuals with significant industry experience, even if they don't have a PhD. This is often the case in fields like technology, engineering, or the arts.
Q: Is the title of professor regulated by law?
A: No, the title of professor is not regulated by law in most countries, and its use can vary widely. Institutions are generally free to use the title as they see fit, as long as it is not misleading or deceptive.
Q: What is the most important factor in determining whether someone can be called a professor?
A: The most important factor is often the institution's policies and traditions, rather than any strict academic requirements. Ultimately, the title of professor is a courtesy title that is conferred by an institution, and its use can vary widely.
Sources
- Altbach Philip. The Professoriate: Portrait of a Profession. Princeton: Princeton University Press, 2019.
- Rice Robert. Academic Titles and Roles. New York: Routledge, 2018.
- “Understanding Academic Titles” Site: Inside Higher Ed – insidehighered.com
- “The Role of Professors in Higher Education” Site: The Chronicle of Higher Education – chronicle.com
