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Humanities Phd Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Humanities Phd information

What is a Humanities PhD?

A Humanities PhD is an advanced academic degree focused on the study of subjects such as literature, history, philosophy, languages, cultural studies, and related fields. Earning a Humanities PhD typically involves several years of coursework, comprehensive exams, and original research culminating in a dissertation. Graduates develop critical thinking, analytical, and research skills, and often pursue careers in academia, research, publishing, or cultural organizations. While many work as university professors, some also find opportunities in government, non-profits, or the private sector.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Humanities PhD?

To thrive as a Humanities PhD, you need advanced research skills, critical thinking, and a deep understanding of your subject area, typically demonstrated by completion of a doctoral program. Familiarity with qualitative research methods, academic databases, and citation management tools is essential, along with potential experience in teaching or publishing. Exceptional written and verbal communication, intellectual curiosity, and the ability to synthesize complex ideas are standout soft skills in this field. These competencies are crucial for producing original scholarship, contributing to academia, and communicating insights effectively within and beyond the university.

How do Humanities PhD holders typically collaborate with professionals outside of academia?

Humanities PhD holders often work with diverse professionals beyond academia, such as those in publishing, nonprofit organizations, museums, and public policy. Collaboration usually involves applying critical thinking and research skills to interdisciplinary projects, public outreach, or community programs. These roles may require adapting academic knowledge for broader audiences, managing group projects, and building partnerships with stakeholders. Being open to cross-sector teamwork and communicating complex ideas clearly are key to successful collaboration in these environments.

What is the difference between Humanities Phd vs Content Writer?

AspectHumanities PhdContent Writer
Required CredentialsDoctorate in HumanitiesTypically Bachelor's or Master's degree, writing skills
Work EnvironmentAcademia, research institutions, universitiesCorporate, digital media, marketing agencies
Industry UsageResearch, teaching, academiaContent creation, marketing, SEO
Common Search/ComparisonHumanities Phd vs Content Writer

The main difference between a Humanities Phd and a Content Writer lies in their credentials, work environment, and industry focus. Humanities Phds are advanced researchers and educators in academic settings, while Content Writers focus on creating content for digital platforms and marketing. Both roles require strong writing skills, but their career paths and daily tasks differ significantly.

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Humanities Phd jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Humanities Phd job openings:

Infographic showing various Humanities Phd job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 27% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 73% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution.

Tenure-Track Assistant Professor in Professional and Technical Writing

Cooperative Education

Fairfax, VA โ€ข On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Other

Posted 15 hours ago

Posted today


Job description

Department: Col of Humanities and Soc Science

Classification: 9-month Instructional Faculty

Job Category:Instructional Faculty

Job Type:Full-Time

Work Schedule:Full-time (1.0 FTE, 40 hrs/wk)

Location: Fairfax, VA

Workplace Type:On Site Required

Sponsorship Eligibility:Not eligible for visa sponsorship

Salary:Salary commensurate with education and experience

Criminal Background Check:Yes

About the Department:

The Department of English offers an undergraduate minor and concentration in Writing and Rhetoric, along with an M.A. concentration in Professional and Technical Writing, and a Ph.D. program in Writing and Rhetoric. For more information about the department, visit http://english.gmu.edu/; for details on programs in Writing and Rhetoric, see http://writingandrhetoric.gmu.edu/.

About the Position:

The Tenure-Track Assistant Professor in Professional and Technical Writing will bolster the university's national profile in research around professional and technical writing, engaging key issues in the field with a focus on critical AI literacies. The faculty member will design and teach courses at the undergraduate and graduate levels, consult with the Department about effective and ethical engagement of AI, advise graduate and undergraduate students doing projects on AI from a humanistic perspective; and bring a humanities centered perspective to collaborations across the university on programming, coursework, and research in AI. This position would also allow for the development of AI-related policies, research, and curricular initiatives in CHSS and the university.

The 2:2 course load includes undergraduate teaching opportunities in upper-division technical writing and graduate courses in rhetoric and technical communication at both the MA and PhD levels.

Responsibilities:Research
  • Maintains an active research agenda and publication record at a rate appropriate for eventual tenure and promotion at an R1 university.
Teaching
  • Teaches courses in the English Department; mentors and supervises undergraduate and graduate student researchers.
Service
  • Provides service to the English department, college, and university by participation on faculty committees.
Required Qualifications:
  • Ph.D. in professional writing, rhetoric, technical communication, or a related field; and
  • Research and teaching focus on critical AI literacies and technical communication, workplace studies, and/or rhetorical theory.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Teaching experience or coursework in: research methods, document design, technical communication, editing, visual rhetoric, or usability;
  • Experience with a range of methods and methodologies in technical writing research, including qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods;
  • Experience advising at the undergraduate, MA, and/or PhD levels;
  • Prior workplace experience in professional and technical writing;
  • Active research program in professional and technical writing, engaging key issues in the field with a focus on critical AI literacies; and
  • Field- and industry-specific knowledge about how to make connections to and prepare students for careers in professional and technical writing.

Posting Open Date:August 14, 2026

For Full Consideration, Apply by:October 15, 2026

Posting Close Date:August 14, 2027

Open Until Filled:Yes

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