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Composition Professor Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

All JobsComposition Professor JobsComposition Professor Jobs in Michigan

Composition Professor information

See Michigan salary details

$50.6K

$100.1K

$164.7K

How much do composition professor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for composition professor in Michigan is $100,052.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,400.00 and $105,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Composition Professor vs Music Theory Professor?

AspectComposition ProfessorMusic Theory Professor
Required CredentialsMaster's or Doctorate in Composition or related fieldMaster's or Doctorate in Music Theory or related field
Work EnvironmentUniversities, conservatories, private studiosUniversities, conservatories, research institutions
Employer & Industry UsageHigher education institutions, arts organizationsHigher education institutions, research centers
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Both Composition Professors and Music Theory Professors typically hold advanced degrees and work in academic settings. Composition Professors focus on creating and teaching new music compositions, while Music Theory Professors analyze and teach the structural aspects of music. Although their roles overlap in higher education, their specialization areas differ, making each role unique within the music academic field.

What is a composition professor?

Composition professors are educators who specialize in teaching students how to write effectively, typically at the college or university level. They instruct courses in academic writing, creative writing, and rhetoric, helping students improve their grammar, organization, and critical thinking skills. In addition to teaching, composition professors often conduct research, develop curriculum, and advise students on their writing projects. Their goal is to prepare students to communicate clearly and persuasively in both academic and professional contexts.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a composition professor?

To thrive as a Composition Professor, you need expertise in writing pedagogy, advanced knowledge of rhetoric and composition theory, and typically a PhD or MFA in English or a related field. Familiarity with learning management systems (e.g., Canvas, Blackboard), academic databases, and digital writing tools is essential. Outstanding communication, mentorship, and adaptability are crucial soft skills that help foster student growth and engagement. These skills and qualifications are vital for effectively teaching diverse student populations and advancing scholarship in the field.

How does a composition professor typically collaborate with other faculty and departments within a university?

Composition Professors often work closely with colleagues in English, Writing Centers, and interdisciplinary programs to develop curriculum, coordinate writing initiatives, and assess student outcomes. They may participate in department meetings, serve on committees, and collaborate on research or teaching projects. This team-oriented environment helps foster consistent standards across courses and provides opportunities for professional growth through shared expertise and mentorship.

What are popular job titles related to Composition Professor jobs in Michigan?

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

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

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

Composition Professor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Composition Professor job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, and 40% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $100,052 per year, or $48.1 per hour.

Assistant Professor of Writing & Rhetoric - Writing across the Curriculum

Oakland University

Rochester, MI • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago

Oakland University rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

188th of 618 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Posting Details
Position Information
Job Title
Assistant Professor of Writing & Rhetoric - Writing across the Curriculum
Department
1663 - Writing and Rhetoric
Requisition No.
0000826
Job Description Summary
The Department of Writing and Rhetoric seeks applicants specializing in writing across the curriculum for a tenure-track Assistant Professor to begin immediately on August 15, 2026. The ideal candidate will possess a research and instructional agenda in writing across the curriculum and/or writing in the disciplines. This colleague will teach courses in the Department's award-winning Professional and Digital Writing major and writing minor, as well as our award-winning first-year writing program. Writing Center tutoring and administrative experience are preferred to advance our ongoing partnership with the university's Writing Center. Additionally, the new colleague is expected to lead professional development within the department and across the university on topics such as writing across the curriculum, information literacy, and undergraduate research. The colleague will also serve on vital department, college, and university committees. Interest in and experience with community engagement, especially K-12 outreach, are preferred to help the university advance its recent designation as a Carnegie Community Engaged campus. PhD in Rhetoric and Composition, Writing Studies, or related discipline such as English or Education is required. Expected teaching assignment is 3/2.
Minimum Qualifications
  • a Ph.D. in Writing and Rhetoric, or a related field by August 15, 2026. Candidates who are ABD will be considered if their degree requirements will be completed by August 15, 2026.
  • a record of effective teaching of first-year writing courses.

Preferred Qualifications:
Applicants should have a record of effective teaching and/or tutoring in writing across the curriculum and writing centers.
Special Instructions to Applicants
To apply, go online to https://jobs.oakland.edu/postings/37866 for the position posting. Please upload the following documents:
  • a cover letter describing your research agenda, teaching philosophy, and service interests
  • a detailed curriculum vitae
  • unofficial transcripts

Contact information for references will be requested in the online application and they will be provided a link through which letters are to be submitted.
The online application system is available at: https://jobs.oakland.edu/postings/37866 Review of applications will begin in June and continue until the position is filled. For full consideration, applications should be received by June 19, 2026. Inquiries can be directed to Search Committee Chair Megan Schoen at meganschoen@oakland.edu.
School/College & Department/Program Summary
Nationally recognized for our award-winning first-year and upper-level programs, the Department of Writing and Rhetoric fosters a diverse and collaborative culture among faculty and students in the classroom and beyond. As the current or former editorial home for journals such as College English, WPA, Composition Forum, and Present Tense, the department offers faculty and students a unique environment to learn from and participate in the research process. Our programs seek to equip students with the knowledge and experience to successfully navigate the ever-changing social, cultural, and professional realities of the 21st century.
More About Oakland University
The University is located on 1,443 acres of scenic land in the cities of Rochester Hills and Auburn Hills in Oakland County, Michigan. The University offers 142 bachelor's degree programs and 138 graduate degree and certificate programs. Academics include programs in the College of Arts and Sciences, School of Business Administration, School of Education and Human Services, School of Engineering and Computer Science, School of Health Sciences, School of Medicine and School of Nursing. As an anchor institution in southeastern Michigan that is dedicated to building ongoing, collaborative relationships, Oakland University embraces community and civic engagement to enhance the lives of its students and positively impact the broader community. Learn more about Oakland University's Mission & Vision and Strategic Plan.
Pay Basis
Open Date
06/01/2026
Open Until Filled
Yes
Job Category
Full-time Faculty
EEO Statement
Oakland University is an Equal Opportunity institution.

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