Academia/Education

Community colleges (aka junior colleges, city colleges) are publically funded and offer two-year associate's degrees. Many also offer continuing education programs. The teaching and university service requirements tend to be high here, with little to no grant writing or research options. Examples include San Francisco City College and Foothill College.

Comprehensive colleges primarily focus on undergraduate and master's degree programs in the liberal arts and professional studies (e.g. nursing, business). While some research opportunities may exist in these colleges, the expectations also may be much lower than at research-focused institutions. The extent of research being performed may also be limited by access to equipment and lower financial support. Examples include San Jose State University and Cal State University, Long Beach.

Liberal arts colleges are baccalaureate-granting institutions offering broad curricula with an emphasis in intellectual literacy and critical-thinking skills. These institutions often are private, have a smaller enrollment, and offer a high level of student-instructor interaction. Again, the emphasis is more on teaching and service, though research opportunities and requirements may exist. Mills College and Sarah Lawrence College represent two such institutions.

Research-focused universities grant bachelor's, master's, professional, and doctoral degrees across a full range of disciplines. These public and private institutions receive millions of dollars in federal funding annually to support ongoing research initiatives. However, teaching and service are still required tenure obligations. Stanford University and the University of California campuses are examples.

Special-focus institutions are free-standing schools focused on one particular area of study. They are especially focused on allowing their students to gain hands-on experience. For those interested in business, Menlo College is an example.

Teaching K-12 is an opportunity for Biosciences graduate students who enjoy developing and teaching curriculum but prefer to work with children. You may find a particular fit at private high schools, where a teaching credential may not be required if you have a PhD. Should you want to teach at a public school or work with a younger age group, you will need to complete an accredited teaching program and earn a teaching credential. On occasion, where there is a need, a school will be able to apply for you to obtain an emergency permit before you have this credential.

Higher-education leadership is a broad and varied field. Many move into it from academic positions, as with the case of academic deans and executive positions. Other positions are area or group specific, such as deans of Student Affairs divisions, directors of offices like the Office of Postdoctoral Affairs, or multicultural centers. The latter types of positions may be achieved through an understanding of the particular area or through study or practice in fields related to student development. Higher education provides a direct opportunity to influence the strategy and direction of academia. At the same time, these leaders play a role in advocating for, and mentoring, students in their academic, personal, and professional development.