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Phd Rhetoric Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Phd Rhetoric information

What is a PhD in Rhetoric?

A PhD in Rhetoric is a doctoral degree focused on the study of persuasive communication, argumentation, and the art of effective speaking and writing. Students in this program analyze how language influences audiences across various contexts, such as politics, media, and culture. Graduates often pursue careers in academia, research, writing, or communications, using their expertise to teach, publish, or consult on matters related to language and persuasion.

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

To thrive as a PhD in Rhetoric, you need advanced expertise in rhetorical theory, critical thinking, research methodology, and academic writing, typically demonstrated through a doctoral degree. Familiarity with qualitative and quantitative research tools, citation management systems, and digital publishing platforms is often required. Exceptional communication, analytical reasoning, and the ability to engage diverse audiences distinguish top professionals in this field. These skills are essential for producing original scholarship, effectively teaching or consulting, and contributing meaningful insights in academic or professional settings.

What are common career paths for a PhD in Rhetoric?

Individuals with a PhD in Rhetoric often pursue academic careers as professors or researchers, but there are also diverse opportunities beyond academia. Many find roles in communications, public relations, technical writing, or consulting, where their advanced skills in persuasive communication, critical analysis, and argumentation are highly valued. Additionally, some work in policy analysis, nonprofit organizations, or corporate training, helping organizations craft effective messages and strategies. Leveraging networking, publishing, and interdisciplinary collaboration can open doors to both traditional and non-traditional career paths.

What can I do with a PhD in rhetoric?

A PhD in rhetoric prepares individuals for careers in academia as university professors or researchers, focusing on communication, language, and persuasion. Graduates can also work in fields such as communication consulting, public relations, writing, editing, or policy analysis, often utilizing skills in critical thinking, analysis, and effective communication.

What can you do with a PhD in rhetoric outside of academia?

A PhD in rhetoric prepares individuals for careers in communication consulting, corporate training, public relations, technical writing, and policy analysis. These roles often require strong analytical, writing, and presentation skills, and may involve working in diverse industries such as marketing, media, or government agencies.

What jobs can you get with a Phd rhetoric degree?

A PhD in rhetoric prepares individuals for careers in academia as university professors or researchers, as well as roles in communication consulting, technical writing, and public relations. Graduates often utilize skills in critical analysis, writing, and persuasive communication in various educational, corporate, or nonprofit settings.

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Phd Rhetoric jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Phd Rhetoric job openings:

Infographic showing various Phd Rhetoric job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 73% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution.

Adjunct Faculty - Language & Literature

Chicago, IL โ€ข On-site

Saint Xavier University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schoolsย โ€ขย 501 - 1,000 employees

Other

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Location : 3700 W. 103rd Street, Chicago, IL
Job Type: Adjunct Faculty
Job Number: 00968
Department: Language & Literature
Opening Date: 01/29/2026
Per Credit Hour: $1,080.00
Summary
Saint Xavier University prides itself on its Mercy mission and excellent teaching prowess. We are seeking adjunct faculty members to teach Language and Literature.
SXU faculty are dedicated to high-quality teaching for its diverse student population. We strive to facilitate student success in learning, and to meet the individual educational needs of each individual within our student body.
The successful adjunct candidate will be committed to teaching in a multicultural environment and welcome the opportunity to work with students with diverse learning abilities. Opportunities may exist to teach a flexible schedule that may include teaching assignments during days, evenings, and weekends, as needed. Adjuncts can teach up to two sections of undergraduate courses per semester.
Adjuncts are paid by stipend on a biweekly basis beginning on the first payroll following the course add/drop date.
We invite you to join our team and submit your application today!
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
Adjunct Faculty instructors at Saint Xavier University are responsible for course planning and instruction in classroom, lab, and/or clinical settings. Courses may be conducted in various delivery modes, such as in-person, online, hybrid and/or blended formats, with a preference towards in-person instruction. In addition, adjunct faculty are responsible for student evaluation, departmental communication, and timely and accurate submission of required paperwork related to instruction.
Qualifications
One of the following degrees:
  • PhD / ABD in related field (literature, technical communication, or similar) with experience teaching composition at the college level
  • PhD in a Liberal Arts field with extensive experience teaching composition at the college level
  • Master's (MA) degree in Writing (Rhetoric, Composition, Writing Studies) with experience teaching at the college level
  • Master's (MA) in a related field (literature, technical communication, or similar) with experience teaching composition at the college level
  • Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in creative writing or an MA in a similar writing specialty with experience teaching composition at the college level
  • MA in English Education with extensive teaching experience, ideally to include some experience teaching at the college level.

Additional Expectations
We inspire success by working together to provide meaningful, personalized service in a spirit of excellence. SXU seeks candidates that deliver value-added services in a responsive, collaborative, effective, and respectful manner.
The University is committed to diversity and encourages applications from individuals with a wide variety of backgrounds and experiences. Saint Xavier University affirms its position as a Catholic institution, inspired by the heritage of the Sisters of Mercy, and asserts its rights to employ persons who subscribe to the mission, vision and core values of the University.
Saint Xavier University is an Equal Opportunity Employer that makes all decisions regarding recruitment, hiring, promotions and all other terms and conditions of employment without discrimination on the grounds of race, color, creed, sex, religion, national or ethnic origin, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status or other factors protected by law. Hiring decisions will be based on the bona fide occupational qualifications of each applicant.