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Composition Professor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Baylor College of Medicine

... Composition Core ... Applicants are eligible for an appointment at the Assistant Professor (tenure-track), Associate ...

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Composition Professor information

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$58K

$114.8K

$189K

How much do composition professor jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for composition professor in the United States is $114,792.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $94,500.00 and $121,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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What are the most commonly searched types of Composition Professor jobs?

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What states have the most Composition Professor jobs?

States with the most job openings for Composition Professor jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Composition Professor jobs?

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

Composition Professor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Composition Professor job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 94% Physical, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,792 per year, or $55.2 per hour.

Assistant Professor of Composition and Theory

Los Angeles, CA

University of South Carolina
Traveler Accommodation • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about University of South Carolinaexternal

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Posting Summary
Logo Posting Number FAC00098PO26 Advertised Title Assistant Professor of Composition and Theory Campus Columbia College/Division School of Music Department MUS School of Music Advertised Salary Range Commensurate with Experience Location of Vacancy Columbia, SC Part/Full Time Full Time Hours per Week 37.5 Position Category Full-time Equivalent (FTE) Basis 9 months Work County Richland Tenure Information Tenure-Track/Tenured Job Search Category Faculty
About USC
About University of South Carolina
From the Upstate to the Lowcountry, the University of South Carolina system is transforming the lives of South Carolinians through the impact of our eight institutions and 20 locations throughout the state. More than 50,000 students are enrolled at one of eight institutions, including the research campus in Columbia and comprehensive four-year universities in Aiken, Upstate and Beaufort. In addition, our Palmetto College campuses in Salkehatchie, Union, Lancaster and Sumter enable students to earn associate or bachelor's degrees through a combination of in-person, online or blended learning. All of our system institutions place strong emphasis on service - helping to build healthier, more educated communities in South Carolina and beyond.
Veterans' Preference Statement
The University of South Carolina is committed to equal opportunity and proudly values the skills and experience military veterans bring to our workforce. Across South Carolina, we are making veterans a priority for employment and recognize their vital contributions to our state and our communities.
Benefits for FTE Positions
The University of South Carolina (USC), through the State of SC and Public Employee Benefit Authority (PEBA), offers state employees a valuable benefits package, including health and life insurance, generous paid leave and retirement programs. To learn more about USC benefits, access the "Working at USC" section on the Applicant Portal at https://uscjobs.sc.edu.
Position Description
Advertised Job Summary
RESPONSIBILITIES: Maintain an active career as a composer through performances, recordings, publications, etc.; teach courses in undergraduate and graduate music theory as well as composition; help direct concerts of contemporary music and student composer concerts; direct graduate and undergraduate research as needed. This position will work at the University of South Carolina Columbia campus in Columbia, SC.
The search process will continue until the position is filled, but priority screening will begin on or shortly after October 30, 2026.
Required Education and Experience
QUALIFICATIONS: Doctorate in music composition (D.M.A. or Ph.D.; ABD also considered); proven record of achievement and promise of developing a national reputation as a composer; evidence of the potential for successful teaching of undergraduate- and graduate-level music theory and composition coursework (including applied study and supervision of student research).
Preferred Qualifications
The School of Music vision statement identifies our core values, each of which are predicated on our five themes as a School: the pursuit of Excellence; devotion to Student Success; the production of Music Leaders; preparation of the Musician-Educator; and the creation of Diversely Skilled Musicians. We also embrace the ethos of music for all by advancing the major endeavor, Music for the Common Good: Carolina's Public Music Initiative. The school encourages applications from candidates who demonstrate interests and abilities that align with these values
Posting Detail Information
Desired Start Date 08/16/2027 Job Open Date 09/03/2026 Job Close Date 10/18/2026 Open Until Filled No Special Instructions to Applicant
Apply at uscjobs.sc.edu, Upload a letter of application, curriculum vitae, and the contact information for at least three current letters of recommendation. Please be sure that the application materials address the responsibilities, qualifications, and core values as described above. Scores, recordings, and any other materials will only be requested of a select group of applicants.
The search process will continue until the position is filled, but priority screening will begin on or shortly after October 30, 2026.

Positions are advertised for a minimum of forty-five (45) days on our job website. After forty-five (45) days, positions can be closed at the discretion of the department at any time. This position is open until filled. This employment site is updated on a regular basis. The length of the recruitment and screening process may vary from position to position, depending upon a variety of factors. Should review of your qualifications result in a decision to pursue your candidacy, you will be contacted by phone or email.

Quicklink for Posting https://uscjobs.sc.edu/postings/212796 EEO Statement
The University of South Carolina does not discriminate in employment opportunities or decisions for qualified persons on the basis of age, ancestry, citizenship status, color, disability, ethnicity, familial status, gender, gender identity or expression, genetic information, military status, national origin, pregnancy, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other protected category under applicable law.

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