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Assistant Professor Composition Jobs in Colorado

Assistant Professor Composition information

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 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 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 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 popular job titles related to Assistant Professor Composition jobs in Colorado? For Assistant Professor Composition jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Assistant Professor of Opera Theatre

Other

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

To ensure full consideration, applications must be received by 11:59pm (MT) on May 27, 2026.

Position Summary:

The School of Music in the College of Performing and Visual Artsat the University of Northern Colorado is seeking a collaborative, creative,and engaging Contract Renewable Assistant Professor of Opera Theatre.

Job Duties:

TheUniversity of Northern Colorado School of Music invites applications for a contractrenewable, full-time appointment as Assistant Professor of Opera Theatre. The successfulcandidate will actively recruit music majors within the framework of our goalof increasing diversity, equity, and inclusion, and work collaboratively withcolleagues to advance the School's programs and initiatives. Candidates withproven professional national or international experience in opera directing arehighly desired and will receive preference. Additionally, areas ofspecialization in opera history, coaching, mentoring young directors willreceive preference. Specific responsibilities include directing two opera eachyear, directing at least one opera scenes program, outreach, recruitment, andpossibly additional areas within the School of Music based on a candidate'sstrengths, qualifications, and interests. Graduate teaching is possible withappropriate credentials. Other assignments will depend on interest, experience,and program needs.      
Witha history of excellence and leadership in arts and education, the School ofMusic is a community of students, teachers, artists, scholars, and musicindustry professionals. Our 40 full-time and 30 adjunct faculty teach andsupport over 350 music majors pursuing undergraduate, masters, and doctoraldegrees in programs including performance, music education, jazz studies, musicbusiness, composition, theory, and history & literature; and certificateprograms in Music Technology and Arts Entrepreneurship. Primarily housed inhistoric Frasier Hall, our facilities include a fully equipped andprofessionally managed recording studio and the new Campus Commons PerformanceHall. We adhere to the values of College of Performing and Visual Arts:Creative Thinking, Belonging & Justice, Integrity, SustainingRelationships, and Tradition & Transformation.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • MM in Opera Directing, or an Artist or Performers Certificate in Opera Directing with an MM in a related field
  • 3 years of opera direction and related coursework at the college level, or commensurate professional experience
  • Record of professional direction experience of a regional or wider scope
  • Potential for success in student recruitment
  • Experience working with individuals from varied backgrounds

PreferredQualifications:

  • Terminal degree in Opera Directing, Stage Directing, Vocal Performance, ABD with degree completed by August 2026, or commensurate professional experience
  • 5 years of teaching opera direction, applied voice, and related coursework at the college level, including some graduate level teaching
  • Experience in teaching Opera History, Acting for Singers, Directing Seminar, or coaching
  • Experience and demonstrated success in developing resources to support an opera program
  • Demonstrated success in student recruitment
  • Applicants from underrepresented or margianized groups encouraged to apply

Application Materials to Include:

  • Cover Letter that includes a statement of Teaching Philosophy as well as qualifications and experience
  • Curriculum Vitae
  • List of references
  • Additional materials may be requested at a later date