DepEd Teacher to College Instructor — many public school teachers are now thinking about making this shift. Some feel stagnant in their roles, while others want to pursue academic growth, better work conditions, or new challenges. If you’re reading this, you’re probably asking the same thing: is it worth leaving the security of DepEd for a chance at growth in college or university teaching?

I’ve gathered insights from real teachers who either considered this shift or already made it. In this article, I’ll walk you through the pros and cons, the financial side (with updated salary info), and personal tips to help you decide whether this change is right for you.

Why Many DepEd Teachers Want to Shift

After years in the same grade level, it’s normal to feel like you’re no longer growing. Some teachers say:

• “I feel stagnant. I’m not learning anything new.”
• “I miss doing research or academic writing.”
• “I want to teach older students and discuss deeper topics.”
• “I want a job where I can focus on teaching—not paperwork.”

These are common feelings, especially among teachers who have been in the same role for 5, 10, or even 15 years. College teaching seems like a new start—but it also comes with a lot of uncertainty.

Pros of Moving from DepEd to College Teaching

✅ 1. Academic Freedom

College instructors usually have more control over how to teach their subjects. You can design your own syllabus, use different teaching styles, and avoid micromanagement. Plus, you won’t be dealing with classroom behavior problems common in elementary or high school.

✅ 2. Intellectual Growth

You’ll be surrounded by fellow educators doing research, attending conferences, and discussing academic topics. If you enjoy learning, this can help you grow both professionally and personally.

✅ 3. Clearer Promotion Path (CHED System)

In higher education, promotions are based on NBC 461 or similar ranking systems. If you meet the requirements (like MA/PhD, research, community work), you can move up from Instructor I to Professor levels.

✅ 4. Less Parent Pressure

In DepEd, parents often question grades or teaching methods. In college, students are adults, and instructors are given more authority in the classroom.

Cons of Making the Shift

❌ 1. No Job Security at First

Most State Universities and LCUs (Local Colleges and Universities) hire as Contract of Service (COS) or Job Order (JO). This means:

• No employer-employee relationship
• No benefits (GSIS, Pag-IBIG, PhilHealth)
• No leave credits
• Delayed or irregular salaries in some cases

❌ 2. Low Starting Salary

You might be surprised: college teaching doesn’t automatically mean higher pay. Here’s a DepEd vs. College Instructor salary comparison based on data from PhilippineGo.com:

But remember, Instructor I positions are not always regular. If you’re under COS, the monthly income may vary from ₱15,000 to ₱22,000 depending on your load and the school’s budget.

❌ 3. Delayed Promotion Without an MA

Many universities won’t offer a plantilla item unless you have at least a Master’s degree. Even with an MA, competition is tough. You might stay contractual for years, waiting for a permanent slot to open.

❌ 4. Research and Accreditation Pressure

Expect requirements for:

• Research publications
• Accreditation documents (ISO, AACCUP)
• Extension programs and community work

Some teachers find this fulfilling. Others find it exhausting—especially with little support or compensation.

Real-Life Experiences: What Teachers Are Saying

“It’s fulfilling, but very risky.”
– Kindergarten teacher who considered transferring to a local college.

“I stayed with DepEd. Sa totoo lang, mahirap magsimula sa college lalo kung COS lang.”
– Elementary teacher with 10 years in service.

“Nag-switch ako kasi gusto ko ng mas academic na environment. Took 3 years before ma-permanent, pero worth it for me.”
– Former SHS teacher, now Instructor I at a State University

“Contract lang kasi at walang assurance. Plus hindi pa rin regular ang sahod. I decided to stick with DepEd for now.”
– COS College Instructor

What to Consider Before Resigning from DepEd

If you’re a DepEd teacher with tenure, benefits, and regular income, the risk is real. Here are things to think about:

• Will you have enough income to pay your bills if salary is delayed?
• Are you emotionally ready to “start over” in a new environment?
• Do you have, or are you working on, a Master’s Degree?
• Will the school offer you a permanent item in the near future?
• Can you handle the pressure of research, writing, and publishing?

If you answered “yes” to most of these, then college teaching might be a good path.

Tips if You Want to Shift to College or University Teaching

1. Start as a Part-Time Instructor
   If your schedule allows, try weekend or evening classes. Some DepEd teachers do this to get a feel for college teaching without giving up their permanent position.
2. Finish Your MA (or Start Now)
   Most CHED-recognized positions require a Master’s Degree. The more units you have, the better your chances of getting hired or promoted.
3. Attend Trainings and Publish
   Research experience and published works can help you get ahead. These are required for promotions under the NBC 461 ranking system.
4. Check the School’s Status
   SUCs (State Universities and Colleges) are generally more stable than LCUs. Private colleges may offer better pay, but promotions may not follow government ranking systems.
5. Ask About Teaching Load and Salary
   Some instructors get paid per unit. The more subjects you teach, the higher the pay. Make sure to clarify this before signing any contract.

Final Thoughts

DepEd Teacher to College Instructor—is it worth it?

It depends on your goals. If you value security, benefits, and stability, staying in DepEd may be the better choice. But if you’re driven by academic growth, enjoy teaching adults, and can handle short-term risks, the college route could open new doors.

Growth doesn’t always feel safe. But sometimes, the hardest steps lead to the biggest rewards.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)