How to become a university lecturer

Is there a subject that you are passionate about?

One that you love sharing with others and spend time researching and contemplating? Then a career as a university lecturer might be for you.

Becoming a university lecturer is a meaningful career path for people who enjoy teaching, research and contributing new knowledge to their topic of interest. It involves a deep love of your subject, and can be incredibly rewarding if you love learning and mentoring others in your area of specialisation. 

UNSW is ranked among the top 20 universities worldwide (QS World University Rankings 2024–2026). As a member of the prestigious Group of Eight, UNSW is a great place to explore your interests, build your skills, and start your journey to becoming a university lecturer.

In this guide, we’ll break down the steps, skills and study options to become a university lecturer in Australia.  

What does a university lecturer do?

A university lecturer does more than teach. While a university lecturer does teach classes and prepare lesson materials, contributing to their field of knowledge through research is just as important as sharing that knowledge with their students.

A university lecturer’s day-to-day responsibilities might include: 

• Teaching lectures and tutorials
• Preparing lesson materials and assessments
• Supervising and mentoring students
• Designing and reviewing course content
• Conducting and publishing research
• Presenting at academic conferences
• Participating in departmental meetings

One of the most important components of a university lecturer’s role is undertaking original research that advances knowledge in their field. University lecturers can conduct their own research or collaborate with colleagues. This not only increases their own standing in the field but also exposes their students to the latest thinking in the subject.

University lecturer vs professor: What’s the difference?

The difference between a university lecturer and a professor is seniority. 

Lecturers typically focus on teaching and early research, while professors are senior academics with substantial research portfolios and often hold leadership positions within their faculty. 

Professor is the highest academic rank in Australia and signifies a leader in their discipline, both here and overseas. 

What are the must-have skills of a university lecturer?

University lecturers need a mix of academic expertise, teaching ability and strong people skills. They’re confident researchers and clear communicators who can collaborate with colleagues and connect meaningfully with students. 

Lecturers are also lifelong learners. As they continue researching their field, they develop deeper knowledge and fresh insights that help them stay current and relevant. 

Here are some of the key skills expected of a university lecturer: 

Dr Vanessa Huron, Senior Lecturer at UNSW, says communication skills are critical.

“Much of my work involves explaining or discussing ideas with different audiences and so I need to know how to shape my communication style to fit.”

“Students can practise these skills in their classrooms with teachers and peers by asking questions and contributing ideas.”

How do you become a university lecturer?

While there are no set qualifications to become a university lecturer, you will need to be an expert in your field. 

Many university lecturers hold a postgraduate qualification in their field – a master's degree or a PhD. Academic societies and universities also often expect a strong research record and industry or teaching experience from university lecturers.

Not all academic pathways require a postgraduate degree. In some fields, experienced professionals can become university lecturers based on their industry expertise. For example, areas like marketing or construction may place more value on practical experience, while research-focused disciplines such as chemistry or biology typically expect a PhD.

Steps to become a university lecturer

Undergraduate pathway

1. Complete a bachelor’s degree 
   Choose a discipline you’re passionate about and build a strong academic foundation.
   
   
2. Gain teaching experience
   Look for opportunities to tutor, mentor or work as a teaching assistant during your studies. 
   
   
3. Enrol in a master’s or PhD program 
   Advance your knowledge and specialise in your chosen field through postgraduate study.
   
   
4. Develop research and publish work 
   Start contributing to your field by conducting research and submitting work to academic journals.
   
   
5. Apply for early academic roles 
   Look for entry-level positions, such as tutor or associate lecturer, to gain university teaching experience.

Postgraduate or industry pathway

1. Study a relevant postgraduate qualification
   Undertake a master’s or PhD to align your practical knowledge with academic credentials.
   
   
2. Gain teaching or research experience
   Get involved in tutoring, sessional teaching or collaborate on research projects within your industry.
   
   
3. Build your research profile
   Publish articles or present at academic conferences to show your engagement with the field.
   
   
4. Apply for lecturer positions
   When you have a combination of teaching experience and academic involvement, you're ready to apply.

What does a career path as a university lecturer look like? 

Academic careers grow step by step. While completing a master’s or PhD, you might begin gaining teaching experience as a tutor, associate lecturer or sessional lecturer in your discipline. These early roles help you develop the skills to teach, assess and engage students in a university setting.

Publishing your research is also essential. It builds your reputation and gives you a competitive edge when applying for roles such as associate lecturer or postdoctoral research fellow.

As your experience, research output and teaching expertise grow, you can progress through the academic ranks – from lecturer to senior lecturer, associate professor and, eventually, professor. Your ability to secure research funding and contribute to your field will also influence your career advancement.

“For me, no two weeks look the same, which keeps things exciting! When I am convening my own course, my week involves preparing and delivering my class, communicating, and meeting with students, and marking assignments,” says Vanessa. 

“I also research and supervise students, provide feedback and guidance on key educational policy, and meet with my peers to share ideas and learn from each other. I also work with other academics to innovate and enhance their course content and assessments.”

Academic specialisations and sub-specialisations

University lecturers often focus their teaching and research on a specific area within a broader academic field. Here are some examples:

How UNSW prepares you for your future as a university lecturer

At UNSW, you’ll be supported to turn your passion for research and teaching into a rewarding academic career. We’re recognised globally for research excellence and impact. As a member of the Group of Eight, we’re one of Australia’s leading research-intensive universities.

You’ll learn from world-class academics across seven globally recognised faculties, including more than 140 Scientia Academics. With access to over 100 research centres, institutes and labs, you’ll have every opportunity to deepen your expertise and contribute to real-world knowledge.

Whether you’re starting your academic journey or preparing for a future in higher education, UNSW will help you build the skills, confidence and connections to thrive as a university lecturer.