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Assistant Professor Composition information

What are some common challenges faced by Assistant Professors of Composition during their first few years, and how can they be addressed?

Assistant Professors of Composition often encounter challenges such as balancing teaching loads with research and publication demands, adapting to diverse student writing abilities, and integrating into departmental culture. To address these, it's helpful to establish a clear time management plan, seek mentorship from experienced colleagues, and actively participate in faculty development workshops. Building strong relationships with students and other faculty members can also foster a supportive environment, making it easier to navigate the expectations of the role.

What is the difference between Assistant Professor Composition vs Assistant Professor Creative Writing?

AspectAssistant Professor CompositionAssistant Professor Creative Writing
Required CredentialsMaster's or Ph.D. in Composition, English, or related fieldMaster's or Ph.D. in Creative Writing, English, or related field
Work EnvironmentColleges, universities, teaching-focused institutionsColleges, universities, teaching-focused institutions
Employer & Industry UsageHigher education institutions emphasizing writing instructionHigher education institutions emphasizing creative writing and literature
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Assistant Professor Composition and Assistant Professor Creative Writing are both faculty roles in higher education requiring advanced degrees. The main difference lies in their focus: Composition emphasizes teaching writing skills and rhetoric, while Creative Writing centers on nurturing students' creative storytelling and literary skills. Both roles are found in similar academic environments and often compared by job seekers interested in teaching writing at the college level.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Assistant Professor of Composition, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Professor of Composition, you need advanced academic credentials in English, Rhetoric, or a related field, along with a strong background in teaching writing at the college level. Familiarity with learning management systems (e.g., Canvas, Blackboard), digital writing tools, and current pedagogical methods is typically required. Excellent communication, mentorship, and organizational skills help foster student engagement and support departmental collaboration. These skills ensure effective instruction, student success, and continued professional growth in higher education environments.

What does an Assistant Professor of Composition do?

An Assistant Professor of Composition typically teaches writing and composition courses at a college or university. Their responsibilities include developing syllabi, delivering lectures, grading assignments, and mentoring students in writing skills. They may also conduct research in composition and rhetoric, publish scholarly work, and participate in academic service such as committees. Additionally, they often help design curriculum and stay updated on best practices in writing instruction. The role requires a balance of teaching, research, and service to the academic community.
What are popular job titles related to Assistant Professor Composition jobs in California? For Assistant Professor Composition jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Assistant Professor Composition jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Assistant Professor Composition jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Assistant Professor Composition jobs? Cities in California with the most Assistant Professor Composition job openings:
Assistant Professor Composition jobs near you

Assistant Professor of Composition

Stanford Energy

Stanford, CA

$115K - $135K/yr

Other

Re-posted yesterday

Stanford University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

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Job description

Assistant Professor of Composition

Apply now Work type: University Tenure Line
Location: Stanford University
Categories: School of Humanities & Sciences

The Department of Music at Stanford University invites applications for a tenure-track composer at the rank of Assistant Professor. The envisaged starting date is September 1, 2027.

We are searching for a creative and innovative composer who will show every promise of attaining professional distinction. The successful candidate must have a commitment to high quality undergraduate and graduate instruction, and ability or potential in teaching and mentoring a diverse student body.

Candidates should have an interest and expertise in one or more additional areas of performance and/or research, including, but not limited to, theory within or beyond the traditions of Western art music, music performance, and computer music. The successful applicant will also have demonstrated interests that afford effective interactions with a broad range of colleagues. Teaching responsibilities will involve courses primarily in composition and analysis, at both undergraduate and graduate levels, as well as the supervision of individual composition research. Courses may also be taught in the candidate's additional areas of expertise.

To be considered, applicants must hold a DMA or PhD in Composition or a closely related field, or demonstrate equivalent professional distinction.

Letters of application should be received on or before October 1, 2026, and must include the following:

- Cover letter
- Curriculum vitae
- List of works and performances
- Three to five letters of reference

Additional supporting materials will be requested at a later date. Please do NOT send scores or recordings at this stage of the search.
The expected base pay range for this position is $115,133 - $135,388.

Stanford University has provided a pay range representing its good faith estimate of what the university reasonably expects to pay for the position upon hire. The pay offered to the selected candidate will be determined based on factors including (but not limited to) the qualifications of the selected candidate, budget availability, and internal equity.

Further information about Stanford's Department of Music may be found at music.stanford.edu. Inquiries may be directed to Bryan Hardester, Director of Finance and Operations, bhardest@stanford.edu.

The application process will close on October 1, 2026.
Stanford is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Stanford welcomes applications from all who would bring additional dimensions to the University's research, teaching and clinical missions.

Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact disability.access@stanford.edu.

Advertised: 29 Jun 2026 1:00 PM Pacific Daylight Time
Applications close: 01 Oct 2026 11:55 PM Pacific Daylight Time

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