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Assistant Professor Composition Jobs in Chicago, IL

Assistant Professor Composition information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$43.8K

$82.5K

$139.1K

How much do assistant professor composition jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant professor composition in Chicago, IL is $82,470.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,800.00 and $94,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Chicago, IL?

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

What job categories do people searching Assistant Professor Composition jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Assistant Professor Composition jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Assistant Professor Composition jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Assistant Professor Composition job openings:

Part Time Faculty, English

DePaul University

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 3 days ago


DePaul University rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 29 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

386th of 622 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Description
The Department of English within the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences at DePaul University invites expressions of interest in part-time faculty teaching opportunities, should they become available during the academic year. Applicants with expertise that matches course scheduling needs will be contacted for an interview if courses become available. Academic course schedules fluctuate from quarter to quarter and the department will work with selected individuals to determine a quarterly schedule. The Department does its best to give ample notice about available courses and potential course cancellations.
Please note: If you are interested in teaching composition courses, you should apply to the Writing, Rhetoric, and Discourse Department.
Qualifications
Master's Degree in English Literature and/or Creative Writing, or three years of experience in the publishing industry.
Experience teaching literature and/or creative writing courses at the college level strongly preferred.
Application Instructions
This posting applies to the following areas: -British Literature -American Literature -Multiethnic Literature -Creative Writing -Publishing Applicants whose qualifications meet current needs may be asked to submit further materials.
Please visit the following URL for information about the program and course offerings:
https://las.depaul.edu/academics/english/about/Pages/default.aspx
Considerations:
Exceptions to standard rates may apply to courses with unique credit hours, supervision, labs, clinical/practicum courses, coaching, administrative tasks, and courses that are either over-enrolled or under-enrolled.
General Compensation/Benefits Statement:
DePaul University has provided a compensation range that represents its good faith estimate of what the University may pay for the position at the time of posting. The salary offered to the selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as (but not limited to) the qualifications, education, experience, and training of the selected candidate, the scope and responsibilities of the position, departmental budget availability, internal salary equity considerations, and available market information.
DePaul University offers a variety of benefit options for qualified part-time employees. Further information regarding benefits can be found here: https://offices.depaul.edu/human-resources/benefits/part-time/Pages/default.aspx
About DePaul University's Academic Calendar:
Except for the College of Law, DePaul University operates on a quarter system. Classes in Autumn, Winter, and Spring quarters are 11 weeks in length (including finals week) and Summer courses, in two sessions, are typically 5 weeks in length. The College of Law operates on the semester system. Classes in the Fall and Spring semesters are 16 weeks in length (including finals week) and it offers a Summer Session of 7 weeks (including final exams).

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