Professor of Practice (PoP) – Overview & Selection Criteria (2026)
Contents
- 1 What is a Professor of Practice (PoP)?
- 2 2. Why Was the PoP Role Introduced?
- 3 3. Eligibility & Selection Criteria for Professor of Practice (PoP)
- 4 4. Key Differences: Professor vs. Professor of Practice
- 5 5. Recent Appointments & Trends (2025–2026)
- 6 6. How to Apply for a Professor of Practice Role?
- 7 7. FAQs
- 8 Stay Updated
What is a Professor of Practice (PoP)?
A Professor of Practice (PoP) is a distinguished professional appointed to academic institutions—especially universities and colleges—to bring real-world expertise into the classroom. Unlike traditional academic faculty, PoPs are not required to hold a PhD or have extensive teaching experience. Instead, they are selected based on their exceptional contributions in industry, public service, arts, or other professional domains.
The concept was formally endorsed by the University Grants Commission (UGC) in India through its 2020 guidelines, allowing higher education institutions to appoint PoPs to enrich curriculum delivery with practical insights.
💡 Key Purpose: Bridge the gap between theoretical education and industry/application-based learning.
2. Why Was the PoP Role Introduced?
- To address the shortage of qualified faculty in technical and professional courses.
- To infuse industry-relevant knowledge into academic programs.
- To enable institutions to tap into the expertise of retired professionals, entrepreneurs, and practitioners without insisting on formal academic qualifications.
This role is especially relevant in fields like:
- Engineering & Technology
- Management
- Law
- Media & Communication
- Public Policy
- Performing Arts
3. Eligibility & Selection Criteria for Professor of Practice (PoP)
As per the latest UGC Regulations (2020, updated 2022), the following criteria apply:
✅ Mandatory Qualifications
- No PhD or NET/SET required.
- Candidate must have at least 15 years of distinguished professional experience in a relevant field.
- Must have made “outstanding contribution” at national or international level (e.g., awards, patents, leadership roles, policy impact, media recognition).
✅ Desirable Attributes
- Experience in mentoring, training, or guest lecturing.
- Publications, case studies, or documented professional work.
- Recognition by professional bodies (e.g., IEEE, IIM, Bar Council, etc.).
📌 Appointment Process
- Appointments are made by the Vice-Chancellor or competent authority of the university on the recommendation of a Selection Committee.
- The committee typically includes:
- Vice-Chancellor (Chairperson)
- Dean of the concerned faculty
- One external expert from the relevant field
- No age limit, but initial appointment is usually for 1–3 years, extendable based on performance.
⚖️ Pay & Position
- PoPs are placed at the same pay scale as regular Professors (Level 14 in the 7th CPC: ₹1,44,200 – ₹2,18,200).
- They may be assigned teaching, mentoring, curriculum design, or industry collaboration duties—but not administrative roles like Head of Department.
4. Key Differences: Professor vs. Professor of Practice
| Parameter | Professor | Professor of Practice |
|---|---|---|
| PhD Required | Yes | No |
| NET/SET Required | Yes (unless exempt) | No |
| Teaching Experience | Mandatory | Not mandatory |
| Professional Experience | Optional | Minimum 15 years, outstanding record |
| Appointment Basis | Academic merit | Professional excellence |
5. Recent Appointments & Trends (2025–2026)
Several central and state universities—including IITs, NITs, Central Universities, and state technical institutions—have started advertising PoP positions. Examples include:
- IIT Delhi: Appointed senior industry leaders in AI and sustainability.
- Banaras Hindu University (BHU): Invited applications for PoP in Journalism and Mass Communication.
- Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS): Used PoP roles for public policy experts.
🔍 Tip for Job Seekers: Monitor university career pages and MySarkariNaukri’s “Academic Jobs” section for PoP notifications.
6. How to Apply for a Professor of Practice Role?
- Watch for official notifications on university websites or portals like MySarkariNaukri.com.
- Prepare a detailed portfolio highlighting:
- Career achievements
- Media coverage or recognitions
- Past engagements with academia (if any)
- Submit as per the institution’s format—often via email or online portal.
- Be ready for an interview/presentation before the selection committee.
7. FAQs
Yes, if they have 15+ years of exceptional service and domain relevance.
No—the university has autonomy, but must follow UGC guidelines.
Generally no, unless the university grants special permission based on the candidate’s research background.
Stay Updated
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👉 Latest Academic & University Jobs
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