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Assistant Professor Composition Jobs in Virginia

Assistant Professor Composition information

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 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 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 popular job titles related to Assistant Professor Composition jobs in Virginia? For Assistant Professor Composition jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Assistant Professor Composition jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Assistant Professor Composition job openings:
Instructor or Assistant Professor of Game Design - Sound

Instructor or Assistant Professor of Game Design - Sound

George Mason University

Fairfax, VA • On-site

Other

Posted 28 days ago


George Mason University rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

123rd of 612 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Instructor or Assistant Professor of Game Design - Sound
  • 10003051
  • Fairfax, VA
  • Instructional Faculty
  • Opening on: Nov 1 2025
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Department: Col of Visual and Performing Arts

Classification: 9-month Instructional Faculty

Job Category: Instructional Faculty

Job Type: Full-Time

Work Schedule: Full-time (1.0 FTE, 40 hrs/wk)

Location: Fairfax, VA

Workplace Type: Hybrid Eligible

Salary: Salary commensurate with education and experience

Criminal Background Check: Yes

About the Department:

The Computer Game Design Program, within the College of Visual and Performing Arts, provides the following:

  1. Undergraduate game design and development courses in sound design and game music composition, leading to a BFA in Computer Game Design;
  2. Provides mentorship and guidance in sound design and game music composition to students pursuing majors and minors in Computer Game Design; and
  3. Supports a cohesive faculty and staff to carry out objectives 1 and 2.

About the Position:

The Instructor or Assistant Professor teaches undergraduate Game Design, Sound Design, Game Music Composition courses and helps develop the future track in the Computer Game Design Program. Also, pursues research (traditional or applied) and/or creative endeavors to contribute significantly to the field.

Responsibilities:

  • Teaches undergraduate Game Design courses and helps develop the future track in the Computer Game Design Program; and
  • Pursues research (traditional or applied) and/or creative endeavors to contribute significantly to the field.

Required Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience;
  • Master's degree in related field, or 5+ years experience in Game Design or related industry;
  • Experienced in all facets of Sound Design and/or Game Music Composition for game design and development, including technical, managerial, and artistic advances, current research (traditional and applied), and industry developments;
  • Extensive experience working with all primary game sound design, production, and game music composition software applications, as well as related hardware;
  • Applicable experience (minimum of 5 years desired) in the industry, and expertise using current professional game engines, editors, and project management software;
  • Knowledgeable about all facets of Sound Design and/or Game Music Composition for game design and development, including technical, managerial, and artistic advances, current research (traditional and applied), and industry developments;
  • Extensive knowledge working with all primary game design, game programming, and management software applications, engines, and tools, as well as related hardware;
  • Knowledge of sound design and game music composition software utilized in the industry;
  • Knowledge of workflow in multi-platform game production and publication;
  • Excellent interpersonal and presentation skills;
  • Proven critical thinking, problem-solving, and judgment skills;
  • Ability to successfully interact with the industry business and governmental communities;
  • Demonstrated commitment and ability to work collaboratively within a complex work environment; and
  • Possesses an approach that fosters a respectful, nonthreatening workplace environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Terminal degree in game related discipline, or 5+ years experience in the Game Design industry and publication of major entertainment or serious games; and
  • Demonstrated ability working with a diverse population of artists, students, faculty, staff, and community members.

Instructions to Applicants:

For full consideration, applicants must apply for the Instructor or Assistant Professor of Game Design - Sound at https://jobs.gmu.edu/. Complete and submit the online application to include three professional references with contact information, and provide a cover letter and resume for review.

Posting Open Date: November 1, 2025

For Full Consideration, Apply by: January 31, 2026

Open Until Filled: Yes


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