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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 Jul 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 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 are composition professors?

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, and why are they important?

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.
More about Composition Professor jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Composition Professor jobs? The most popular types of Composition Professor jobs are:
What states have the most Composition Professor jobs? States with the most job openings for Composition Professor jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Composition Professor jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Composition Professor jobs are:
Composition Professor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Composition Professor job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $114,792 per year, or $55.2 per hour.
Journalism Adjunct Professor - Graphic Production & Design

Journalism Adjunct Professor - Graphic Production & Design

University of La Verne

La Verne, CA • On-site

$27.04/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Posting Details
Posting Summary
Position Title
Journalism Adjunct Professor - Graphic Production & Design
Division
Provost
Major Department
College of Arts and Sciences
Department
Communications Department
Location
La Verne Main Campus
University Overview
Diversity Statement
The University supports a diverse and inclusive environment where students recognize and benefit from the life experiences and viewpoints of other students, faculty, and staff. Diversity is an active and intentional practice that supports difference and multiplicity to expand knowledge, educate capable citizens, develop the whole person, and serve our local and global communities. Promoting and sustaining diversity is a commitment to educational quality and the creation of positive, respectful learning communities.
Job Description
The University of La Verne is a private not-for-profit university founded in 1891 located in La Verne, California. The core values that we live by are Ethical Reasoning, Diversity and Inclusivity, Lifelong Learning and Community and Civic Engagement.
If you're passionate about these values, join us at the University of La Verne!
The Journalism program in the Department of Communications at the University of La Verne (30 miles east of downtown Los Angeles) has an * immediate opening * for a part-time adjunct instructor/professor to teach Graphic Production Processes and Design for Publications in the Fall. The 16-week semester begins on August 22.
Course Description:
The course is scheduled for 6:50 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. on Wednesdays, and it will be taught live in person (or "hybrid" in person and online) or remotely if required by state or county mandates.This course will introduce students to the fundamentals of graphic design: composition, typography, color and branding systems. It will introduce them to software and project planning tools in order to learn how communicate visually.
Course Objectives:
• To define components of visual communication.
• To introduce the principles and practices of visual communication.
• To plan and diagram all components of a visual communication project.
• To explore the effective uses, applications and technical issues of media for effective
communication.
• To introduce and utilize several software and hardware tools for visual communication.
• To apply the skills and capabilities learned to create and present a coordinated, branded project.
Under the direction of the Program Chair:
  • Develop and Maintain Syllabus Materials: The adjunct professor is responsible for selecting and compiling tests, assignments and/or online discussion exercises.
  • Facilitate Class Instruction: The adjunct professor is responsible for teaching the assigned course in accordance with learning objectives and session plan outlines.
  • Evaluate Student Performance: The adjunct professor is expected to administer evaluations of student performance based on course deliverables and course rubrics. All course grades will be posted on the Blackboard Grade Center.

Required Qualifications
Master's in Fine Arts Degree
Experience in Graphic Design
Teaching in Higher Education Experience
Preferred Qualifications
Benefits Summary
Below is a list of benefits and perks offered to Adjunct Faculty:
* Benefit Hub (discount perks)
* Free Parking
* Adjunct Faculty Development Funds
* Staff discounted lunches at the Spot
* 10% off discount at the University of La Verne Bookstore and Graphics
* Tuition Remission (Senior Adjuncts)
* Contribution Retirement Plan (must meet hours) for Mandatory Voluntary Contribution at
anytime
* Medical (must meet hours)
* Utilize services offered at CTL and the wellness center.
Employment is contingent upon successful completion and clearance of a background check and employment verification.
Physical Demands Summary
Hiring Pay Rate
Hiring Salary Per Hiring Rank:
Adjunct Instructor (no terminal degree): $27.04
Adjunct Professor (with terminal degree): $28.08
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number
AF074P
Job Open Date
07/27/2020
Job Close Date
Open Until Filled
Yes
Special Instructions to Applicants
Please upload your resume, CV and transcripts.
Advertising Summary

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