There is a lot of confusion between adjunct and tenured professors, which can lead to unfortunate outcomes. For example, adjunct professors are typically hired temporarily to help cover a certain class or semester, while tenured professors typically have a guaranteed position and are not necessarily hired temporarily.

The main difference between adjunct professors and tenured professors is their level of security. Tenured professors typically have guaranteed positions and are not typically hired temporarily. As a result, tenured professors can typically pursue their research and teaching goals without fear of being fired or changing positions. Adjunct professors, on the other hand, are typically hired temporarily and are not typically able to pursue their research or teaching goals without fear of being fired or having their position changed.

Another important difference between adjunct and tenured professors is the pay level. Tenured professors typically earn a lot more money than adjunct professors. Conversely, adjunct professors typically earn a lower salary than tenured professors.

Overall, the main difference between adjunct professors and tenured professors is their level of security. Tenured professors typically have guaranteed positions and are not typically hired temporarily. As a result, tenured professors can typically pursue their research and teaching goals without fear of being fired or changing their positions. Adjunct professors, on the other hand, are typically hired temporarily and are not typically able to pursue their research or teaching goals without fear of being fired or having their position changed. In addition, tenured professors typically earn a lot more money than adjunct professors. Conversely, adjunct professors typically earn a lower salary than tenured professors.