Multiple universities…

Last week I was asked if academics teach at multiple universities simultaneously. There will be exceptions, but in the main a UK based lecturer or professor will hold a contract with one university – for whom they will teach. However, academics can become involved with the teaching at other universities in several ways, three of which I’ve noted below.

#1 External examiner

To ensure universities maintain appropriate teaching and examination standards for their courses, an external examiner system is usually in place. This is where a university appoints a member of staff – from another university – to oversee and critique as assessment process. You will find external examiner roles for both the taught undergraduate and postgraduate courses; plus of course PhD viva’s require an external examiner. Whilst these positions do bring a workload, there are a great way of seeing the practices at another university and supporting the teaching community.

#2 Guest lecturer

It is rather lovely to be invited as a guest lecturer to speak at another university. Often these invitations are extended linked to your research and they can lead to a fun visit. You may be asked to speak to the postgraduate or undergraduate community, with your host often supplying some form of refreshments. These trips can allow you to catch up in-person with collaborating colleagues, support postgraduate teaching, hear about new lines of research and share your results with a wider audience.

#3 Sabbatical

Academic staff members can have the opportunity to take a sabbatical. Typical lasting a semester, these allow the lecturer to step away from their regular teaching duties. The reasons vary, but sometimes the sabbatical is to allow research or teaching at another university, sometimes for an industrial appointment, an outreach activity or personal reasons. A great thing about sabbaticals is you can retain your position and salary at your university, whilst getting to experience life at another!

Caroline, Dr CST