October 7, 2005

Rigid Tenure System Hurts Young Professors and Women, University Officials Say

By ROBIN WILSON

Officials of 27 major research universities who met here in late September to discuss ways to make the tenure track more flexible said the lock-step, up-or-out nature of academic careers not only leaves no room for young professors to enjoy their family lives, but also hampers women's efforts to advance in the profession.

When tenure policies were established on campuses, in the late 1930s and early 1940s, "the work force really had a single focus -- on work," said Kathleen E.

Digital or Print Subscription

Web Pass

Already have an account? Log In Now.