Key facts
- Lecturers have to stay updated on changes in their subject area through engaging in research and attending seminar discussions
- Lecturers may also provide career support to students and act as a mentor
- Some lecturers may work entirely online to deliver sessions to students
What is a lecturer?
A lecturer works in a university or further education college. They teach students in their specialist area, evaluate and develop courses, mark assignments, conduct research and much more.
Why become a lecturer?
- You can work independently and have autonomy in researching or delivering sessions
- You are often being paid to research in an area you are passionate about
- Being a lecturer is rewarding as you help students to progress through their learning journeys and contribute to their success
- You get the chance to continually broaden your knowledge
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The opportunity to create a learning environment for students to flourish and get excited about an area of study is a real privilege of being a lecturer.
Types of lecturers
There are different types of lecturers depending on your experience, level, contract and where you work. Below are some of the types based on the UK academic system, though responsibilities can vary between institutions:
Responsibilities of a lecturer:
- Delivering sessions to students in the form of lectures, seminars, workshops, demonstrations or field work either in-person or online
- To participate in course and module development meetings and reviews
- Setting assignments and providing support to students
- Marking and grading assignments as well as sharing constructive feedback
- Researching within the sector and subject area
- Supervising students’ research projects
- Being actively involved in student recruitment
View our academic expertise
Hamish Morrin
Lecturer
Michael Summersall
Senior Lecturer
Professor Nicola Lowe
Professor of Nutritional Sciences
Frequently asked questions
To summarise, being a lecturer can allow you to contribute to the success of students’ learning journeys and make a real difference to their lives.
Where next?
- Subject
Education
