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Creative Writing Instructor Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

... creative work. As part of the state's largest university system, CU Denver is a major contributor ... This may include courses such as Interpersonal Communication, Communication Research & Writing ...

... creative work. As part of the state's largest university system, CU Denver is a major contributor ... Ability to communicate effectively, both in writing and orally, in a variety of institutional ...

Instructor - ICB

Denver, CO · On-site

$53K - $54K/yr

... creative work. As part of the state's largest university system, CU Denver is a major contributor ... Ability to communicate effectively, both in writing and orally, in a variety of institutional ...

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Creative Writing Instructor information

See Colorado salary details

$41.5K

$65.4K

$96.2K

How much do creative writing instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for creative writing instructor in Colorado is $65,389.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,900.00 and $89,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Creative Writing Instructor vs Writing Coach?

AspectCreative Writing InstructorWriting Coach
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in English, Creative Writing, or related field; teaching certification may be preferredOften has experience in writing and editing; certifications vary, but strong portfolio is key
Work EnvironmentEducational institutions, workshops, online classesPrivate practice, online platforms, corporate training
Industry UsageAcademic and educational settings, community programsFreelance, publishing, personal development

While both roles focus on writing skills, a Creative Writing Instructor primarily teaches students in academic or workshop settings, emphasizing craft and theory. A Writing Coach offers personalized guidance to individual writers, focusing on editing, publishing, and career development. The roles overlap in credentials and work environment but differ in scope and client interaction.

What are some common challenges Creative Writing Instructors face when engaging diverse groups of students?

Creative Writing Instructors often work with students who have varying skill levels, backgrounds, and interests. One common challenge is fostering an inclusive classroom environment where all voices feel valued and students are encouraged to share their unique perspectives. Additionally, instructors must balance providing constructive feedback while nurturing creativity and confidence in each writer. Adapting lesson plans to accommodate different learning styles and encouraging collaboration among students are also key aspects of the role.

What does a Creative Writing Instructor do?

A Creative Writing Instructor teaches students how to express their ideas and stories through writing. They design courses, lead workshops, provide feedback on students' work, and encourage creativity in various forms such as fiction, poetry, and nonfiction. Instructors may work in schools, colleges, community centers, or online platforms, helping students develop their writing skills, understand literary techniques, and build confidence in their creative abilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Creative Writing Instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Creative Writing Instructor, you typically need a strong background in literature, creative writing, and often a relevant degree such as an MFA or MA. Familiarity with digital platforms for course delivery, word processing software, and workshop management tools is also important. Standout instructors excel in communication, mentorship, and fostering an inclusive, inspiring learning environment. These skills and qualities are essential for effectively guiding students' creative growth and maintaining high engagement in the classroom.
What are the most commonly searched types of Creative Writing Instructor jobs in Colorado? The most popular types of Creative Writing Instructor jobs in Colorado are:
What are popular job titles related to Creative Writing Instructor jobs in Colorado? For Creative Writing Instructor jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Creative Writing Instructor jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Creative Writing Instructor jobs in Colorado are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Creative Writing Instructor jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Creative Writing Instructor job openings:
Instructor - ICB

$53K - $55K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


University Of Colorado Boulder rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 37 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

150th of 536 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Position Details
University of Colorado | Denver
Faculty Level/Title: Instructor
Working Title:  Instructor - ICB
FTE: Full-time, 0.9 FTE | On-site, in Beijing, China
Salary Range: $53,136 - $55,568
Position #00637374- Requisition #39866
Join the University of Colorado Denver

About the University of Colorado - Denver
Millions of moments start at CU Denver, a place where innovation, research, and learning meet in the heart of a global city. We're the state's premier public urban research university with more than 100 in-demand, top ranked bachelors, master's, and doctoral degree programs. We partner with diverse learners-at any stage of their life and career-for transformative educational experiences. Across seven schools and colleges, our leading faculty inspires and works alongside students to solve complex challenges and produce impactful creative work. As part of the state's largest university system, CU Denver is a major contributor to the Colorado economy, with 2,000 employees and an annual economic
impact of $800 million. To learn more about how CU Denver helps learners meet their moment, visit ucdenver.edu.
Located in the Haidian District of Beijing, International College Beijing (ICB) is an international partnership between China Agricultural University (CAU) and the University of Colorado Denver that offers complete undergraduate programs in Economics and Communication. All courses are administered and taught by CU Denver faculty in English, and the degree earned is awarded by CU Denver. The ICB program offers a thriving and collegial environment that strives to embody the best promises of international education. For more information about the CU Denver/ICB program, please see the International College Beijing web site: https://www.ucdenver.edu/offices/international-affairs/partners/international-college-beijing. 
Instructors receive an allowance to purchase airline tickets to and from Beijing (the first ticket to Beijing is covered by the university), international health insurance, and the option of free on-campus housing or discounted off-campus housing at higher levels of accommodation. Semesters are 12 to 14 weeks long; semester start dates are based on the lunar calendar with fall semesters beginning early to mid-September, and spring semesters beginning mid-February to early March. 
In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification document form upon hire. Based on certain employee situations, we may not be able to hire candidates directly as CU employees and may need to use a Professional Employment Organization (PEO) to complete the hire.
Faculty hired to teach at ICB must be able to meet the requirements to obtain the Z Visa to work in China (http://english.gov.cn/services/workinchina/). Our understanding of these requirements includes: prior to the position start date, international (non-Chinese) candidates must hold their Master's degree or above and have worked full-time for at least two years in a relevant area after receiving their Bachelor's degree, or begin their appointment at ICB within 12 months of obtaining their Ph.D. Under these Chinese rules, the maximum age of candidates seeking a work Visa is 59. These requirements are subject to change by the Chinese government without notice.
Job Description
* Applications are accepted electronically ONLY at www.cu.edu/cu-careers *
The University of Colorado Denver Department of Communication invites applications for a full-time, non-tenure-track teaching position at the International College of Beijing (ICB). 
The job will commence in Beijing in Fall 2026. 
Depending on the performance of the individual hired and other circumstances, multi-year renewals are possible. We seek to hire a colleague who can teach a wide array of Communication courses across Health Communication, Digital Media, and humanistic approaches to AI, supporting one or more of the Department's pathways and certificates, especially in health communication, strategic communication, and/or AI and human communication. This may include courses such as Interpersonal Communication, Communication Research & Writing, Communication & Citizenship, Health Communication, and Digital Health Narratives, among others. We are particularly interested in a colleague who is well-versed in incorporating the use of AI tools and/or critically examines AI's broader societal impacts. We similarly seek a colleague who is experienced in integrating workplace readiness elements into their course design to prepare students for the workforce. 
The teaching load is 8 courses per academic year (4 in fall and 4 in spring) and will also assume 10% of their duties in service roles assigned in consultation with the ICB Director, Department Chair, and Associate Program Chair. These service roles may include advising students on the communication major, minor, and certificates; serving as faculty advisor or director of student clubs; contributing to or overseeing annual student festivals and ceremonies; contributing to newsletters and outcomes assessment; and other tasks.
Instructor - ICB
What you will do:

  • Teach 8 courses per academic year (4 in fall and 4 in spring)
  • Service duties assigned in consultation with the Department Chair, ICB Director, and Associate Program Chair

Qualifications you already possess (Minimum Qualifications)
Applicants must meet minimum qualifications at the time of hire.

  • Master's degree in Communication or a closely allied field (English-medium)
  • Two years independent teaching experience as the instructor of record (English-medium) 
  • Evidence of highly effective teaching
  • Evidence of multifaceted and excellent service to an academic department

Preferred Qualification to possess (Preferred Qualifications)

  • Ph.D. in Communication (or a closely allied discipline)
  • Demonstrated experience in communication in U.S.-China contexts
  • Demonstrated experience in incorporating AI tools in student assignments and assessments 
  • Demonstrated experience integrating workplace readiness and/or career preparation elements into student assignments and assessments

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Proficient skills in instructional technology, digital and social media environments, as well as AI/media production tools (for example, Canvas, ChatGPT, DeepSeek, Adobe, PowerPoint, Canva, and others)
  • Ability to communicate effectively, both in writing and orally, in a variety of institutional contexts. 
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with students and employees at all levels throughout the institution.

Conditions of Employment

  • Required to work in China for this position. 
  • Faculty hired to teach at ICB must be able to meet the requirements to obtain the Z Visa to work in China (http://english.gov.cn/services/workinchina/)
  • To be paid via CU Denver payroll, you must have a social security number and a U.S. bank account for direct deposit.

CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. 
We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.
The University will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities throughout the employment application process. To request an accommodation pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, please contact the Human Resources ADA Coordinator at workplaceengagement@ucdenver.edu.

Employment Sponsorship
Please be advised that this position is not eligible now or in the future for visa sponsorship.
Compensation and Benefits
The salary range (or hiring range) for this position has been established at $53,136 - $55,568.   
The salary of the finalist(s) selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to, internal equity, experience, education, specialty, and training. The above salary range (or hiring range) represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting.
This position is not eligible for overtime compensation. Your total compensation goes beyond the number on your paycheck. The University of Colorado Denver provides generous leave, health plans and retirement contributions that add to your bottom line.
Benefits: https://www.cu.edu/employee-services/benefits  Total Compensation Calculator: http://www.cu.edu/node/153125 
Application Deadline
Applications will be accepted until finalists are identified, and interviews begin. Preference will be given to complete applications received by May 20, 2026, 11:59:00 PM.

Required Application Materials
To apply, please visit: http://www.cu.edu/cu-careers and attach:

  • A letter of interest describing relevant job experiences as they relate to listed job qualifications and interest in the position. 
  • Curriculum vitae / Resume outlining experience(s). 
  • Three professional references including name, address, phone number (mobile number if appropriate), and email address. (We will notify you prior to contacting both on and off-list references).
  • A single PDF file providing evidence for (a) at least two years independent teaching experience as the instructor of record (English-medium), (b) highly effective teaching, and (c) multifaceted and excellent service to an academic department.

Questions should be directed to Dr. Tamara Powell, Assistant Teaching Professor, Department of Communication, CU Denver, tamara.powell@ucdenver.edu. 
Background Check Policy
The University of Colorado Denver strives to maintain a safe and productive educational, clinical, research and employment environment. All prospective employees and current employees must, therefore, consent to and pass background checks prior to any final appointment/employment.
 


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