University and College Teachers is in the Engineering, Science, and Technologies Career Cluster. Very good ability to use words clearly when speaking and writing Good ability to gather information from spoken or written material Good ability to use numbers, often when analyzing information Ability to make decisions and solve problems Ability to mentally picture an objects after hearing a description or seeing a picture Ability to persuade people to change their opinions Ability to see detail in objects or pictures, such as when examining a students art work Desire to be a leader and influence others Willingness to supervise others and be in charge of planning projects College and university teachers should be able to work well with students. They must also be able to work with little supervision. Physical Demands Frequently listen and talk to students and other instructors Frequently need to see nearby objects clearly, as when reading Occasionally lift and move objects, such as piles of books, that weigh up to 20 pounds Occasionally use arms and hands to reach for and handle objects, such as books Occasionally use fingers to make fine movements, such as type Work Setting College and university instructors usually work inside. They sit for much of the day.
Schedules are flexible and vary according to teaching load.
Most college faculty members teach 12 to 16 hours a week. They spend additional hours at faculty and committee meetings. They keep regular office hours to advise students, usually for about one to four hours a week. Other than these obligations, faculty members can choose when and where to work. Some instructors teach on evenings and weekends.