You'll usually need a first class or upper second class degree, relevant to the subject you want to teach.

You'll also need to have completed a postgraduate master's or PhD qualification, or be working towards one. It's common to have had academic work published.

You'll be expected to do a teaching qualification soon after you start. This is normally offered by your university and is done while working.

You may be able to get experience by taking on teaching duties while you're a postgraduate student. Some universities also offer posts as a graduate teaching assistant.

You'll need several years' relevant work experience if you want to teach vocational subjects, for example art or engineering.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
• a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

You may be able to do an Academic Professional Level 7 Apprenticeship, which is equivalent to postgraduate study.

You can specialise in teaching or research.

To apply, you'll normally need a minimum of a postgraduate qualification in your subject area, or several years' equivalent work experience, plus the agreement of your employer.

It can take between 18 and 24 months to complete.

Entry requirements

Employers will set their own entry requirements.

You'll need:

• knowledge of teaching and the ability to design courses
• knowledge of English language
• excellent verbal communication skills
• analytical thinking skills
• sensitivity and understanding
• excellent written communication skills
• the ability to use your initiative
• the ability to work well with others
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

You'll need to:

• pass enhanced background checks

In this job, you will:

• design and develop courses to suit students' needs
• teach students through lectures, seminars, online classes and fieldwork
• set assignments and exams, and assess progress
• manage research programmes and budgets
• act as personal tutor to students

You could work at a university or at a college.