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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.

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Assistant Professor Composition jobs near you

Visiting Assistant Professor - Composition

The University of Texas at Austin

Austin, TX • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

University Of Texas at Austin rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 64 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

128th of 630 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Description
Teach courses based on applicant's expertise, composition applied lessons, and independent studies in composition at the graduate and undergraduate levels. Supervise graduate student research. Liaise with other units in the College of Fine Arts to foster inter-departmental student collaborations. Develop and advance nationally impactful creative activity as a music composer. Participate in the academic community of the Theory/Composition Division and the broader Sarah and Ernest Butler School of Music through participation in meetings, committee service as assigned, and events.
Start date, August 2026. Salary commensurate with experience. This is a one-year, fixed term appointment.
About the Butler School of Music at the University of Texas at Austin
The University of Texas at Austin ranks among the finest universities in the country. The Butler School of Music, comprising of over 100 faculty and approximately 650 music students, has an outstanding reputation for its faculty expertise, academic programs, and student outcomes. Degree plans range from the bachelor's to the doctoral level. The Austin area is a dynamic metropolitan area with a growing economy, ample outdoor recreation, many cultural advantages through its numerous arts organizations, and is home to a very active and creative music scene. The composition faculty at the University of Texas at Austin encourage students to explore many different music making traditions and cultures.
Qualifications
DMA or PhD required. Significant professional accomplishments in lieu of a terminal degree will be considered. A portfolio demonstrating a record of or potential for excellence in music composition for one or more of the following contexts: music for orchestra/band, chamber music, electronics, or collaboration across media such as theatre, dance, film, and visual arts. The successful candidate will demonstrate a record of openness to a variety of aesthetics, media, and styles.
Application Instructions
Applications will be reviewed beginning May 28, 2026. The position is open until filled.
To apply, click "apply now" and submit the following materials via Interfolio:
  • cover letter
  • curriculum vitae
  • complete contact information for three references
  • a separate document with live links to the audio/video files of 3-5 representative works, and PDFs of the scores matching those files. If no performance score is used, provide a text describing the work. The links should connect to a cloud based folder (e.g. DropBox, Google Drive, Box, Vimeo, or YouTube).

Letters of recommendation will be requested from selected applicants at a later date. Please do not submit additional supporting materials unless requested by the search committee.

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