If you are looking for lecturing jobs in computer science, you will find a diverse range of teaching and research opportunities available in this dynamic and rapidly-expanding field.
Computer science degree programmes have one of the highest application rates among students worldwide. The Higher Education sector leads the way in training the tech experts of the future, and there is strong demand for lecturers who can deliver high-quality computer science education while also engaging in impact-focused research.
Lecturers in computer science come from a wide range of backgrounds. You might be just finishing your Ph.D. in a related field, or you may have gained professional experience working in the tech sector and want to transfer your knowledge to a lecturing position.
In this post, we look at some typical lecturing jobs in computer science, the qualifications and experience you will need, and where to start your search.
Job Descriptions:
Lecturer in Computer Science
Computer science lecturers teach undergraduate and postgraduate students across related programmes in computer sciences, engineering, and technology. They also engage in research and professional practice activities.
Duties include:
- Delivery of teaching and assessment in computer science and related disciplines.
- Development of individual and collaborative research.
- Preparing funding bids to external bodies.
- Curriculum design and development.
- Student project supervision and support.
- Publication of research outcomes and forging new partnerships globally.
What qualifications and experience do you need?
A first degree and/or postgraduate qualification in computer science and a Ph.D. (or soon-to-be-completed) in a relevant area would be essential for a HE lecturing job.
Depending on the focus of the role, some universities may be willing to accept equivalent professional experience and qualifications in lieu of a doctorate. However, your professional background would need to align with the specific research and teaching activities of the department. Previous research and teaching experience at HE level would also be essential. Some institutions may also ask for fellowship of Advance HE (formerly the Higher Education Academy) or willingness to undertake.
What’s the pay?
A lecturer in computer science can expect a starting salary in the region of £36,333 to £41,931 p.a.
What can it lead to?
After a number of years as a lecturer in computer science, you could apply to move up to a senior lecturer position. Promotion would depend on the visibility of your research and the quality of your teaching.
Related roles:
- Lecturer in Computing
- Lecturer in Data Science
- Lecturer in Autonomous Systems
Where can I find jobs?
Computer science is a broad discipline, taught in the majority of universities around the world. In the UK, degrees in computer science are in the top ten of applied-for programmes. Therefore, the availability of lecturing jobs is much higher than in other related subjects. However, the number of computer science specialists is also high and competition for lecturing jobs can be fierce.
Find Lecturer in computer science jobs here.
Lecturer in Cybersecurity
In the face of ever more sophisticated global threats to computer systems and electronic data, the availability of degree programmes and training in cybersecurity and digital forensics has increased in the past decade.
Lecturers in cybersecurity teach degree apprentices, undergraduate and postgraduate students, preparing them for careers in this growing industry.
Duties include:
- Design and delivery of innovative, career-oriented teaching and training.
- Delivery of cybersecurity modules across all areas of computer sciences.
- Engaging in product-focused research collaboration with external bodies and industry.
- Identifying areas of further research and income generation.
- Supervising student projects and work-based training and placements.
What qualifications and experience do you need?
Though desirable, a Ph.D. in cybersecurity (or related area) is not always necessary for this type of role. Universities actively seek cybersecurity and digital forensics experts with a track record of professional experience and knowledge.
However, a first degree and Master’s qualification in a related area would be essential criteria. There’s particular demand for experts specialised in Smart Interactive Technologies, security, networking, data intelligence, and gaming. Evidence of research activity and delivery of training would also be essential.
Membership of a relevant professional body such as The Chartered Institute for IT (BCS) would be desirable.
What’s the pay?
A lecturer in cybersecurity can expect a starting salary in the range of £37,386 to £41,931p.a.
What can it lead to?
Most Higher Education institutions have a career development framework for academic staff to ensure progression. After a number of years in post as a lecturer, you could apply for a senior lecturer or associate professor role. Promotion would depend on the quality of your teaching and research as well as your ability to help students into a career in cybersecurity.
Related roles:
- Lecturer in Computer Science/Computing
- Lecturer in Information Security
- Lecturer in Artificial Intelligence
Where can I find jobs?
The availability of cybersecurity as a standalone degree subject is increasing, with experts in demand to teach and train in this area. However, cybersecurity is often embedded within computer science degrees, so it is a good idea to include lecturing jobs in computer science during your search.
Find Lecturer in cybersecurity jobs here.
Lecturer in Game Design
Lecturers in game design teach undergraduate and postgraduate students following related programmes. They also engage in individual and collaborative research and development.
Duties include:
- Delivery of lectures, seminars, and technical design classes/workshops across related disciplines.
- Planning and conducting innovative research activities.
- Publication of results of research in peer-reviewed journals.
- Preparing funding proposals and applications to external bodies.
- Seeking knowledge exchange and business engagement opportunities.
- Supervision of student projects and work placements.
What qualifications and experience do you need?
A Ph.D. in computer science or game design would be highly desirable, however, universities may also accept equivalent, relevant professional experience for the right candidate. In-depth knowledge and experience in game design and development tools, such as Unity or Unreal 5, would be a must for a lectureship in this field.
Prior experience in teaching and research at HE level would usually be essential. However, universities often look to hire dynamic and knowledgeable game designers from within the commercial sector, so may be willing to overlook a lack of teaching experience.
What’s the pay?
A lecturer in game design can expect a salary in the range of £37,474 to £51,841 p.a.
What can it lead to?
On gaining experience, the next step would be to apply for a senior lecturer in game design position. Promotion would depend on the quality of your teaching practice and research and your ability to attract funding.
Related roles:
- Lecturer in Games Programming
- Lecturer in Digital Arts
Where can I find jobs?
Game design and development is now a hugely popular area of interdisciplinary study, attracting thousands of students per year. However, competition for lecturing jobs in this attractive field is also high. In the UK you will find lecturing jobs in game design in both Higher and Further Education (teaching-only roles). For more information about the FE sector and jobs, visit our sister site: colleges.jobs.ac.uk.
Find Lecturer in game design jobs here.
Further Information:
- Academic jobs in Computer Science
- Research jobs in Computer Science
- Senior-level academic jobs in Computer Science
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