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Assistant Professor Composition Jobs in Tennessee

... Assistant Professor of Teaching position. Responsibilities include teaching four English courses per Fall and Spring semester, including developmental and first-year composition, creative writing ...

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 Tennessee?

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

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

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

Professor of Teaching

University of Memphis

Jackson, TN • On-site

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago


University Of Memphis rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

34th of 627 rated colleges and universities


Job description

The Department of English at the University of Memphis Lambuth Campus in Jackson, Tennessee seeks candidates for an Assistant Professor of Teaching position. Responsibilities include teaching four English courses per Fall and Spring semester, including developmental and first-year composition, creative writing (any genre), and American Literature.  This hire will be expected to advise a small number of English majors.

The assignment for this position is one year, beginning Fall 2026 and ending with the conclusion of the Spring 2027 semester, with the possibility of being extended. Note: Fall classes begin on Aug 24, 2026.

All applications will be managed through the University's online application system, WorkForUM, available here. We urge all qualified applicants to apply for this position. Appointment will be based on qualifications as they relate to position.

The teaching load for this full-time position is 4/4. Salary commensurate with experience and qualifications.

Minimum qualifications:

PhD in English in hand is preferred, but ABD candidates (with multiple chapters drafted) will be considered.

Demonstrated experience in effectively teaching developmental composition and lower and upper division composition, creative writing, and literature courses

Evidence of teaching excellence (e.g. student evaluations, sample syllabi, class observations reports, statement of teaching philosophy, etc.)

Willingness to follow departmentally prescribed course objectives and outcomes

Required Documents:

Curriculum vitae

Cover letter

Teaching philosophy

Unofficial transcript

Deadline: Review of applications will begin on August 12, 2026, and continue until the position is filled.  Fall classes begin on Aug 24, 2026.

Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.  We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa at this time.
 

Teaching four English courses per Fall and Spring semester, including developmental and first-year composition, creative writing (any genre), and American Literature.  This hire will be expected to advise a small number of English majors.


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