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Playwriting Professor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Miami-Dade County Public Schools

DRAMA TEACHER*

Miami, FL · On-site

$3.0K/wk

... playwriting, stagecraft, costuming and makeup. JOB TASKS/RESPONSIBILITIES 1. Instructs students ... professors. Background Screening for the Selected Candidate (External Candidate): Please click on ...

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Playwriting Professor information

See salary details

$42.5K

$80.1K

$135K

How much do playwriting professor jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for playwriting professor in the United States is $80,057.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,000.00 and $91,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a playwriting professor do?

A Playwriting Professor teaches students the art and craft of writing plays, often working within a college or university's theater or creative writing department. They instruct students on dramatic structure, character development, dialogue, and theatrical conventions. In addition to teaching, Playwriting Professors may mentor students, oversee workshops and productions, and conduct research or write their own plays. They often participate in curriculum development and may advise theater productions on campus.

How does a playwriting professor typically support students in developing their original scripts from concept to production?

Playwriting Professors play a hands-on role in guiding students through the entire creative process, from brainstorming and outlining ideas to refining dialogue and structure. They provide individualized feedback during workshops, facilitate peer critiques, and advise on revisions to strengthen scripts. Professors also often collaborate with theatre departments or student groups to stage readings or productions, giving students practical experience in bringing their work to life. This mentorship helps aspiring playwrights build confidence, understand industry standards, and prepare for professional opportunities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a playwriting professor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Playwriting Professor, you need a deep understanding of dramatic structure, scriptwriting techniques, and a track record of professional playwriting, typically supported by an MFA or advanced degree in theatre or creative writing. Familiarity with digital writing platforms, classroom management systems, and theatre production software is often beneficial. Excellent communication, mentorship abilities, and creativity are crucial soft skills for inspiring and guiding students. These skills and qualities are essential to foster student development, contribute to academic programs, and maintain relevance in the evolving field of playwriting.

What is the difference between Playwriting Professor vs Playwriting Instructor?

AspectPlaywriting ProfessorPlaywriting Instructor
CredentialsMaster's or Doctorate in Theater, Playwriting, or related fieldVaries; often includes experience in playwriting or theater, sometimes certifications
Work EnvironmentUniversities, colleges, academic settingsCommunity centers, workshops, private classes
Employer & Industry UsageHigher education institutions, arts programsArts organizations, private studios, community programs
Search & Comparison IntentAcademic roles, teaching careers, university jobsPractical training, workshop roles, non-academic teaching

While both roles involve teaching playwriting, a Playwriting Professor typically works in academic settings with advanced degrees, focusing on theory and research. A Playwriting Instructor may work in community or private settings, emphasizing practical skills and workshops. The main difference lies in the level of education, environment, and scope of responsibilities.

What cities are hiring for Playwriting Professor jobs?

Cities with the most Playwriting Professor job openings:

What states have the most Playwriting Professor jobs?

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

What are popular job titles related to Playwriting Professor jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Playwriting Professor job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, and 23% Part Time. Highlights an 90% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,057 per year, or $38.5 per hour.

Visiting Assistant Professor of Theatre

Joplin, MO • On-site

Missouri Southern State University (MSSU)
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Missouri Southern State University (MSSU)external

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Visiting Assistant Professor of Theatre

Department: Performing Arts

Position Type: Full-Time, Non-Tenure-Track (One-Year Visiting Appointment, with possibility of renewal)

Start Date: September 2026

Application Deadline: Review of applications begins immediately and continues until the position is filled

Position Summary

The Performing Arts Department invites applications for a one-year Visiting Assistant Professor of Theatre position beginning in Fall 2026. We seek a versatile theatre artist-scholar who can teach across our undergraduate curriculum, mentor students in production work, and contribute to the department's creative and intellectual community. This is a full-time teaching position with production responsibilities.

Responsibilities

  • Teach undergraduate courses in the successful candidate's area(s) of specialization (e.g., acting, directing, theatre history and literature, and design/technical theatre)
  • Advise and mentor students on department productions in a design, directing, dramaturgy, or performance capacity, depending on expertise
  • Attend and participate in department meetings, auditions, and production meetings as appropriate
  • Advise undergraduate students on academic and artistic development
  • Contribute to departmental initiatives in curriculum development, recruitment, or community engagement as opportunities arise

Required Qualifications

  • MFA or equivalent terminal degree or experience in Theatre, Performance Studies, or a closely related field
  • Demonstrated excellence in teaching at the undergraduate level
  • Active record of professional or creative work in theatre (directing, performance, design, playwriting, or related practice)
  • Ability to teach effectively across a range of student experience levels
  • Strong communication, collaboration, and mentorship skills

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience teaching diverse student populations
  • Interest or experience in devised theatre, new play development, or interdisciplinary performance
  • Familiarity with production management or technical theatre
  • Evidence of scholarly or creative research agenda
  • Experience advising student organizations or co-curricular activities

Application Process

To apply, please submit the following materials electronically:

  • Cover letter addressing qualifications and interest
  • Curriculum vitae
  • Contact information for three professional references

Missouri Southern State University is an equal opportunity employer and encourages

applications from women, minorities, individuals with disabilities, and veterans.

Apply