Other states report an initial drop, but growth usually restarts after one or two years. For the fall semester of 1995, about 1,360,300 students were enrolled in the State's community colleges. Employment opportunities should be brisk over the next two decades, depending on enrollment, finances, the number of new campuses and the increase in number of instructors reaching retirement. Government retraining programs utilize community colleges to provide hands-on job experience in many technical fields. During summers many instructors get additional earnings from teaching, speaking engagements, writing for publications or other employment.
Some faculty members do research projects or contract consulting.
Health insurance, dental, vision and retirement plans are common benefits for full-time faculty. Some full-time instructors receive tuition waivers for dependents, housing and cafeteria allowances, travel allowances and paid leaves of absence. Many faculty members are eligible for a short leave at full or partial pay after six or seven years of employment with the same district. If one is not offered or required in their field, they need a bachelor's degree plus two years' experience and any required certificates or licenses. If the Instructor does not possess a bachelor's degree, an Associate of Arts degree plus six years of professional experience and any required certificates or licenses fulfill requirements.