The Pros and Cons of Nontenure Track Faculty Positions in Higher Education

Nontenure refers to a faculty position that is not eligible for tenure. Tenure is a system of job security that grants professors permanent employment after they have served a certain number of years, typically 6-7 years. In order to receive tenure, a professor must meet certain criteria, such as publishing scholarly research, teaching effectively, and serving on departmental committees.

Nontenure track positions, also known as contingent or adjunct faculty positions, are hired on a part-time or full-time basis, but they do not have the same job security as tenured professors. These positions are often filled by instructors who are hired to teach specific courses or to fill in for tenured professors who are on leave. Nontenure track faculty may be eligible for contract renewal from year to year, but they do not have the same rights and benefits as tenured professors.

Nontenure track positions can be beneficial for institutions because they allow for greater flexibility in staffing and course offerings. However, some critics argue that the reliance on nontenure track faculty can lead to a lack of job security and stability for these instructors, which can negatively impact their ability to conduct research and teach effectively.