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Assistant Professor Composition Jobs in Virginia

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.

What job categories do people searching Assistant Professor Composition jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Assistant Professor Composition jobs in Virginia are:

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

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

Infographic showing various Assistant Professor Composition job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

F/T Visiting Assistant Professor of English

State of Virginia

Lexington, VA

$58K - $63K/yr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


State Of Virginia rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 50 rated states


Job description

F/T Visiting Assistant Professor of English

Apply now Job no: 5109084
Work type: Faculty (Salaried)
Location: Lexington, Virginia
Categories: Educational and Media Services

Title: F/T Visiting Assistant Professor of English

State Role Title: Assistant Professor

Hiring Range: $58,000-$63,000

Pay Band: UG

Agency: Virginia Military Institute

Location: Virginia Military Institute

Agency Website: www.vmi.edu

Recruitment Type: General Public - G

Job Duties

Beginning January or August 2027, this is a one-year appointment with the option of renewal. Responsibilities include teaching Core Curriculum courses in written and/or oral communication (12 contact hours per term) and mentoring students.

All classes will be taught in person at VMI.

Minimum Qualifications

Ph.D. in English or Rhetoric/Composition required.
Teaching experience and a professional interest in Rhetoric and Composition.

Additional Considerations

This is a full-time, non-tenure track Visiting Assistant Professor of English with teaching experience and professional interest in Rhetoric and Composition.


Health and retirement benefits included.

Special Instructions

You will be provided a confirmation of receipt when your application and/or resume is submitted successfully. Please refer to "Your Application" in your account to check the status of your application for this position.

Candidates must complete an online state application and attach these supporting materials: a letter of application, resume, and unofficial transcript. In addition, three letters of recommendation must either be attached to the application or emailed to RCSearch@vmi.edu.

The review of applications will begin 15 September and continue until the position is filled. Preliminary interviews with be conducted virtually and on a rolling basis.

Salary commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Contact Information

Name: Matthew Hart

Phone: 540-464-7051

Email: hartmp@vmi.edu

In support of the Commonwealth's commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their AHP Letter (formerly COD) provided by the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS), or the Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired (DBVI). Service-Connected Veterans are encouraged to answer Veteran status questions and submit their disability documentation, if applicable, to DARS/DBVI to get their AHP Letter. Requesting an AHP Letter can be found at AHP Letter or by calling DARS at 800-552-5019.

Note: Applicants who received a Certificate of Disability from DARS or DBVI dated between April 1, 2022- February 29, 2024, can still use that COD as applicable documentation for the Alternative Hiring Process.

Advertised: 07 Aug 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close:

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