Generally, you'll need:
* A terminal degree: This is the highest degree in your field. For most fields, this is a doctoral degree (Ph.D., Ed.D., etc.). In some fields, particularly the arts, a Master's degree might suffice, especially for a lecturer or adjunct position, but even then, a doctorate is often preferred for advancement. Some community colleges may accept Master's degrees for some subjects, but even there, a terminal degree is usually preferred.
* Relevant experience: While the specific requirements vary, most institutions look for evidence of expertise in your field. This might include:
* Teaching experience: Even if it's at the secondary school level or through workshops/lectures, teaching experience demonstrates pedagogical skills.
* Research experience: A strong research record is particularly crucial for tenure-track positions at universities, demonstrating the candidate's contribution to the field's knowledge. This often includes publications in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at conferences.
* Professional experience: Practical experience in your field can be valuable, particularly in applied fields.
* Strong writing and communication skills: College instructors need to communicate effectively through lectures, presentations, writing assignments, and feedback.
* Publication record (often required for tenure-track positions): Research universities and even some colleges place significant emphasis on scholarly output, requiring publications in peer-reviewed journals and potentially books.
* Successful completion of an interview process: This usually involves presentations, teaching demonstrations, and interviews with faculty and administrators.
* References: Strong letters of recommendation from previous professors, supervisors, and colleagues are essential.
Specific Requirements Vary By:
* Institution type: Research universities are typically much more demanding than community colleges in terms of research output and the level of degree required.
* Subject area: Humanities fields might place more emphasis on teaching experience and publication in books, while STEM fields might emphasize research publications and grant writing.
* Position type: Tenure-track positions require a substantially stronger application than adjunct or visiting lecturer positions. Adjunct positions often require only a Master's degree and may have more flexible requirements.
In short, while a terminal degree is almost always a requirement, the specific requirements beyond that are quite variable. It's essential to research the specific job descriptions and requirements of the institutions and positions you're interested in.