About the Preparing Future Faculty Course

The Preparing Future Faculty (PFF) seminar course is a year-long series of activities designed to expose graduate students more fully to the realities of teaching, research and service in higher education.

The general focus of this seminar is to enable graduates to make the transition successfully to employment in the academic community equipped with a realistic knowledge of academic culture, behavioral expectations and career expectations.

Eligibility

Doctoral and postdoctoral students from all disciplines are eligible to participate. Participants must register for the one-credit-hour course each of the two semesters.

How to Apply

Complete the application (PDF) by the deadline date and obtain the endorsements of two graduate faculty members from your academic program.

Elements of the Seminar Course

The seminar counts as one credit hour for each semester of participation. The program begins in August and ends the following semester in May.

A central component of the seminar course involves campus visits that expose students to differing institutional missions and the multiple and complex responsibilities of faculty members. Students travel to a partner institution within MU’s geographic proximity each semester. The PFF program reimburses transportation expenses.

Required Activities

Class Participation

Fellows will attend monthly classes throughout the year-long program. See current and past syllabi and schedules for more information.

Academic Portfolio

Fellows will develop a portfolio documenting their teaching, research and outreach philosophies, activities and effectiveness.

Multi-Campus Experience with a Faculty Mentor

Fellows will visit partner institutions to gain exposure to alternative institutional contexts. The fellow and the partner-institution mentor will determine the exact nature and frequency of these visits. A partnership agreement form will be completed, and the student will provide feedback on the visit.

While at partner institutions, fellows might

• Discuss the institution’s mission and academic culture.
• Explore faculty roles and expectations.
• Research the institution’s history and student population.
• Receive mentoring for teaching and service.
• Teach a seminar, unit or course and receive feedback.
• Attend faculty, committee or departmental meetings.
• Participate in faculty development activities.

Professional Development and Workshops

These workshops include presentations focusing on professional development and obtaining a career. Different topics and presenters will be highlighted each semester. Fellows must attend a minimum of two career seminars each semester. These workshops are open to all graduate and postdoctoral students.