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Assistant Professor Composition Jobs in Oklahoma

Assistant Professor Composition information

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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant professor of composition?

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 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.

Do you need a PhD to be an assistant professor composition?

Typically, a PhD in composition, music, or a related field is required to become an assistant professor in composition at most academic institutions. Some positions may accept a master's degree with extensive professional experience, but a doctoral degree is generally preferred for tenure-track roles. Academic institutions often value research, publications, and teaching experience in addition to the highest degree earned.

What are popular job titles related to Assistant Professor Composition jobs in Oklahoma?

For Assistant Professor Composition jobs in Oklahoma, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Oklahoma are hiring for Assistant Professor Composition jobs?

Cities in Oklahoma with the most Assistant Professor Composition job openings:

Instructor/Assistant Professor of English -1091

Oklahoma State University

Langston, OK

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago


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Job description

Instructor/Assistant Professor of English -1091

Apply now Job no: 493088
Work type: Faculty
Location: Langston
Categories: Faculty/Instructor

Campus

LANGSTON

Contact Name & Email

Nika Wilson, luhumanresources@langston.edu

Work Schedule

Monday through Friday, 8:00am-5:00pm with occasional evenings and weekends.

Appointment Length

9 months or less

Hiring Range

$42,000 - $52,000

Commensurate with education and experience

Priority Application Date

While applications will be accepted until a successful candidate has been hired, interested parties are encouraged to submit their materials by to ensure full consideration.

Special Instructions to Applicants

For full consideration, please include a resume, cover letter, official transcript and three professional recommendation letters. 

About this Position

Langston University is currently searching for a non-Tenure Track, full time Instructor or Assistant Professor of English, with experience working with corequisite students.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Faculty member must be prepared to fulfill the responsibilities of teaching, scholarship, and service to the university. The faculty member will teach a 5/4 load.  Faculty member will provide academic advising to undergraduate students. Faculty member will actively seek grants and other funding to help strengthen the department's research program and provide student support. Faculty member will participate in departmental, school, and university projects and committees. The faculty member will play an active role in shaping the future of the English department through departmental planning and development.

The preferred candidate will also demonstrate expertise teaching marginalized populations, corequisite composition or reading as well as an understanding of culturally responsive teaching, HBCUs, and land grant institutions to meet the needs of students in survey courses. The preferred candidate must have the ability to demonstrate use of technology in the classroom to enhance lesson delivery and must be willing and able to use technology relevant to specifically assigned courses. Online teaching experience, willingness to teach online, and the ability to communicate well and employ teaching methods that engage students from traditionally underrepresented populations will be a plus.

Required Qualifications
  • Master's

    ABD in closely related field or MA in Reading. 

    (degree must be conferred on or before agreed upon start date)
Preferred Qualifications
  • Ph.D./Ed.D.

    English or Rhetoric

Advertised: 18 Sep 2025 Central Daylight Time
Applications close:

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