Career Services Office
Interviewing for Academic Careers
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The job interview is an organized event in which information is exchanged in order to determine suitability for a specific position of employment. In the academic world, members of a search committee will use the interview to assess your interest in a position, the quality of your research skills and training, your potential for success as a teacher and researcher, and your ability to fit into the campus community. Interviews are also an opportunity for potential employees to gather information about the position and climate in order to decide whether or not to accept a potential offer.
Academic interviews traditionally involve a campus visit; however, many departments and universities now do all or part of the applicant screening process through less costly conference and telephone interviews. Most applicants are brought to campus only when they have made the "short list" of three or four candidates under consideration. This document will discuss the different types of interviews and focus on the preparation necessary to have a smooth, successful interview experience.
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