Anyone an external examiner

[MyLovelyPurse]

I have seen an advertisement for a university external examiner today for an MA programme. It’s just the kind of job I’d like for the next few years as I am winding down a bit (65) and was thinking of reducing my teaching hours. It’s exactly the post grad area I have experience of, my PhD and research area.

I am not sure about applying though as I guess external examiners are fairly established in their field. I have taught in that general area since 1990 but mainly in FE. I have only started teaching it at HE for the last four years, and part time. I have also only ever published two papers. I know an awful lot about the subject but not so much in the context of HE. Would I be wasting my time applying? The only external examiners are know are fairly eminent.

I've been an EE for the past decade at a couple of places. My experience is that most places struggle to recruit so are grateful for applicants. I'm not sure the fee you get paid will be a significant amount - I've only ever earned £400 per year (which is taxed at the higher rate) so I'm only left with around £300. I don't do it for the cash - for me it's for the networking opportunities, stealing other peoples ideas and rummaging through another institutions dirty washing

Same as PP. I'm an external examiner, it's about 2/3 full days work per year max. You won't earn a living!

@damekindness thanks so much for your reply. That’s really useful to know. It’s disappointing that it’s not much money but really my motivation is more that I’d like to get off the teaching treadmill a bit before I retire, but still be involved in my field. Plus, exactly as you say, nosiness and getting to network a bit.

@Sauvblonk thanks for your reply. It’s not about the income. My main concern is really whether I’d look silly applying to be an EE with so little HE experience.

Hi OP,
At my place we would normally be looking for someone who is at senior lecturer level, and not only has experience in the delivery of teaching but also in administrative/leadership roles - someone who can also comment on how different modules fit together, etc.
However I've seen people being appointed elsewhere below SL level, and I think this would be particularly the case if it's a new area or discipline were a wealth of experience in the subject might be more relevant than a long academic career.

I have done external examining for some years. As other poster say, it isn't something to live off. I see it as a little extra boost for holidays and Christmas. I don't think you would look silly at all applying. It really does depend on the field and who else is available. It can be an interesting way to connect with colleagues elsewhere and gain some insight into what is happening in other institutions. I think you should go ahead and apply.

@sonjadog thanks for your reply, that’s very helpful