Sabbatical Funding

The word sabbatical refers to a time of rest - and certainly faculty need and deserve this time to recoup. But, of course, for most, this is also a time to conduct or develop research or work on the book or project that you haven't had time for.

When considering what work and exploration you will pursue on sabbatical, it's important to consider the costs for that work and your time and to explore what grant opportunities might be in line with your sabbatical research. In doing so, consider the following:

Start looking early
In all the hustle and bustle, many faculty researchers don't consider what funding might be available for their sabbatical until it's too late to apply for that funding. ORDE suggests that applicants give themselves six months to prepare a solid grant application, and review and award processes can take as long as a year. So, you want to give yourself at least a year beforehand to start grant-writing. Ideally, you want a one and a half to two years to seek funding for your sabbatical.

Figure out what's fundable
You may have a very cool idea or something brand new planned for your sabbatical, but is it something that sponsors will invest in?  As you begin considering sabbatical funding, take a look at the types of sabbatical funding that are typically available in ORDE's e-book on sabbatical funding opportunities.

Also, ask you senior colleagues where they looked for funding and what their experience was in attaining funding - what were their lessons learned and suggestions for you?

Consider the long term
Although faculty going on sabbatical often have just received tenure, it's important to consider how any projects you take on in your sabbatical fit with your longer term research career development. With tenure under your belt, what do the next five years hold for you? What are your goals and how can you use your sabbatical and sabbatical support to strategically position you to hit the ground running when you get back?

Being strategic in these three ways can provide you with a rewarding and productive sabbatical.

Resources
e-book on sabbatical funding - ORDE
How to enjoy a sabbatical - InsideHigherEd