PFF frequently asked questions

is PFF a huge time commitment?

Although the workload for PFF may be greater than other 1-credit courses for which you might register, most students do not find the demands of PFF to be unreasonable. The requirements and activities of the program are distributed throughout the year and most do not require an extensive amount of time. Required seminars meet once or twice per month, and most of the remaining items can be completed at your convenience.

does PFF make a difference?

Students who have completed the PFF program have reported that participation in PFF provided them with an edge in applying for and securing academic positions and a greater awareness of what was expected of them when they started their position.

what does a successful applicant look like?

A successful applicant, in addition to meeting all of the outlined criteria, will demonstrate an understanding of the PFF program and a desire to learn about the complex role of the faculty member through a well-written, well-thought-out statement of purpose.

why must I wait until my 2nd year to join PFF?

The first year of graduate school can be a difficult adjustment period for incoming students. The addition of PFF requirements on top of the typical first year requirements might hinder your transition or disrupt your academic career. Furthermore, after the first year of graduate school you should have a better understanding of your career and academic goals and how a career in academics fits into those goals.

what is a terminal degree?

A terminal degree is the highest degree awarded in a specific discipline. The most widely known terminal degree is the doctoral degree (i.e. PhD, EdD, etc.). However, the terminal degree for some disciplines is not a doctorate. For instance the MFA (Masters of Fine Arts) is a terminal degree. Most institutions of higher education require faculty to have a terminal degree.

which terminal degree students can participate in PFF?

Any student who is pursuing a doctoral degree (i.e. PhD, EdD, DMA, etc.) is able to participate as are those who are pursuing an MFA degree.

why can’t masters students participate in PFF?

The program goals of the PFF program are designed to aid students to attain highly sought after academic positions which are tenure track and require a terminal degree in their field. The master’s degree is not a terminal degree.

are there any financial incentives for joining the PFF program?

Students who successfully complete the Exploratory Phase (First Year) and are accepted to and participate in the Participatory Phase (Second Year) are eligible to receive a small travel grant that can be used toward travel expenses related to PFF activities. In addition, students who participate in and those who have completed the Participatory Phase can apply for the Faculty Emeriti Fellowship which includes a small monetary award.

can PFF count towards my degree?

This depends on your academic unit. The best place to start is to ask your program advisor and graduate program coordinator if the PFF seminars can count as credit towards your program of study.

will PFF help me be a better teacher? Is the PFF program only about effective teaching?

Although teaching is covered in PFF, it is a small part of the PFF agenda. There are many professional development opportunities at ASU to improve teaching, therefore this is not the focus of the PFF program. The focus of the PFF program is that of research, teaching, scholarship, creative activity and service and how this all fits into the life of an academic.

this is my last year, can I still participate in PFF?

Absolutely! Many students participate in only the first year of the PFF program and gain valuable information that increases knowledge and awareness of what is entailed of a faculty position.