Introduction
Tenure is a concept often found in academic settings, but it can be confusing to those outside of academia. In this article, we will explore what tenure means, how it works, and its implications.
Definition of Tenure
Tenure is a form of job security granted to professors and some research faculty at universities. It is designed to protect academic freedom and ensure that scholars are able to pursue their research without fear of reprisal.
How Tenure Works
After a probationary period, usually around six years, faculty members can apply for tenure. Their application is reviewed by a committee of their peers, who evaluate their research, teaching, and service to the institution. If approved, the faculty member is granted tenure, which means they cannot be easily fired and have greater job security.
Implications of Tenure
Tenure has several implications for both faculty members and universities. On the one hand, it allows professors to pursue controversial research topics, challenge prevailing ideas, and speak out on social and political issues without fear of losing their job. On the other hand, it can also lead to complacency and make it difficult to remove underperforming faculty.
Examples of Tenure
One example of tenure in action is the case of Steven Salaita, a professor whose offer of tenure was rescinded after he posted controversial tweets about Israel. This case sparked a debate about academic freedom and the limits of tenure protection.
Tenure Statistics
According to the American Association of University Professors, around 25% of faculty members in the United States have tenure. This number has been declining in recent years, as universities rely more on adjunct and non-tenure-track faculty.
