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Rhetoric Professor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Rhetoric Professor information

What is the difference between Rhetoric Professor vs Speech Communication Professor?

AspectRhetoric ProfessorSpeech Communication Professor
Required CredentialsDoctorate in Rhetoric, Communication, or related fieldDoctorate in Communication, Speech, or related field
Work EnvironmentUniversities, colleges, academic institutionsUniversities, colleges, academic institutions
Industry UsageFocus on persuasive speaking, rhetorical theory, argumentationFocus on interpersonal communication, public speaking, media
Common Search IntentComparing academic roles in rhetoric and speech communicationUnderstanding differences in communication-related teaching roles

Both Rhetoric Professors and Speech Communication Professors typically hold doctoral degrees and work in higher education settings. Rhetoric Professors specialize in persuasive speaking, rhetorical theory, and argumentation, while Speech Communication Professors focus on interpersonal communication, public speaking, and media studies. The choice between the two often depends on specific academic interests and career goals within communication disciplines.

What are some common challenges Rhetoric Professors face when engaging students from diverse academic backgrounds?

Rhetoric Professors often encounter the challenge of engaging students who have varying degrees of familiarity with rhetorical theory and critical analysis. Students from STEM or non-humanities backgrounds may initially find rhetorical concepts abstract or less directly applicable to their fields. To address this, professors frequently tailor their teaching strategies, using interdisciplinary examples and fostering inclusive discussions that bridge theory and practical application. This approach helps create a dynamic classroom environment where all students can appreciate the relevance of rhetoric, regardless of their academic focus.

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

To thrive as a Rhetoric Professor, you need advanced expertise in rhetorical theory, composition, and communication, typically supported by a Ph.D. in English, Communication, or a related field. Familiarity with digital teaching platforms, research databases, and classroom management systems is often required. Exceptional public speaking, analytical thinking, and mentorship abilities help foster student engagement and academic growth. These skills and qualities are vital for effectively teaching complex concepts, conducting research, and contributing to the academic community.

What are Rhetoric Professors?

Rhetoric Professors are academic professionals who specialize in teaching and researching the art of persuasion, effective communication, and argumentation. They often work in university or college settings, guiding students in understanding how language influences beliefs, actions, and society. Their work may include analyzing speeches, writing, and media, as well as instructing students in public speaking and critical thinking. Rhetoric professors also conduct research on communication strategies and may contribute scholarly articles or books in their field.
Infographic showing various Rhetoric Professor job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% Full Time, and 94% Part Time. Highlights an 69% Physical, and 31% Remote job distribution.
Assistant Professor of Communication

Assistant Professor of Communication

TNBR Careers

Jackson, TN • On-site

$58K/yr

Full-time, Contractor

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Title: Assistant Professor of Communication

Job Summary

This is a 9-month, term contract position. The Assistant Professor will perform day-to-day operations of the instructional programs in Department of Communication and Social Sciences in the School of Humanities and Social Sciences. The faculty member will also provide advisement to students, participate in college committees and campus activities, and develop coursework as needed. The standard teaching load is 15 credit hours per semester. The teaching assignment may include online; hybrid; and/or distance classes, evening classes, dual-enrollment, and off-campus locations. The instructor is responsible for the success of the teaching/learning process within the classroom.

Job Duties

Teaching

  • Teach a minimum of 15 credit hours of courses in the Department of Communication and Social Sciences in traditional and virtual formats during the day and evening at any college center where there is a need.
  • Hold in-person and virtual office hours as defined in College Policy.
  • Work with course leads and/or program directors and/or department chairs to ensure consistent and equitable student experiences.
  • Work with colleagues and the dean to develop, revise, evaluate, and manage curriculum and program growth in one’s area of expertise.
  • Utilize the college's learning management system to provide course materials to students.
  • Utilize the college's learning management system for providing timely feedback and continuously keeping students aware of their progress in the course.
  • Utilize the college's learning management system to establish and communicate clearly defined grading procedures and standards 
  • Post updated department syllabi in the college's learning management system prior to the first day of class. 
  • Regularly check email (JSCC and eLearn) and departmental mailbox. 
  • Respond to emails/messages within 24 hours except on the weekend.
  • Use evaluations, professional development and theories and principles of learning to revise and update content, objectives, and instructional strategies.
  • Use alternative instructional strategies where appropriate.
  • Engage in departmental institutional effectiveness activities related to academic success and retention
  • Perform record-keeping responsibilities related to teaching and advising.
  • Respond in a timely fashion to all reasonable deadlines.
  • Understand, keep updated on, and comply with all college and TBR policies and guidelines. 

Advising

  • Be available to students by maintaining office hours, which are reasonably convenient for students and posted at the beginning of each term.
  • Be knowledgeable of college policies and procedures pertaining to, and assistance available for, students.
  • Assist advisees with following their desired General Studies or Communication program of study.
  • Hold conferences with students as needed.
  • Participate in advising and outreach events at the college.

Faculty Service

  • Serve on committees and task forces as approved by supervisors.
  • Use professional knowledge and skills to contribute to local and professional community activities whenever appropriate.
  • Attend faculty and advisory committee meetings as scheduled.
  • Contribute to the advancement of institutional goals through appropriate individual goals.
  • Attend graduation.

Professional Development (Teaching and Discipline/Field)

  • Participate in annual professional development activities.
  • Stay current in disciplinary and pedagogical knowledge and best practices.

Other duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Speech, Oratory/Rhetoric, or Communication from a regionally accredited institution; or
• Master’s degree in another discipline and at least 18 graduate semester hours in Speech, Oratory/Rhetoric, and/or Communication from a regionally accredited institution.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience teaching at the college level, particularly at a community college.
• Industry experience in digital media.
• Experience teaching introductory communication courses and digital media skills.
• Experience teaching college courses in a variety of modalities including in-person, hybrid, virtual, and asynchronously online.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge and/or experience using a variety of instructional delivery modes.
• Ability to communicate effectively and work cooperatively with a diverse faculty, staff, and student population.
• Strong computer skills, including proficiency in LMS management as well as Microsoft Office applications.

Physical Demands / Working Conditions

  • Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer
  • Prolonged periods of standing at times
  • Prolonged screen time
  • Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds at times
  • Repetitive Movement

Pay Rate:  $48, 351 - $58,021 (Annual salary depending on eligible experience, which is defined by the current compensation plan.)

Position Close Date:  Open until filled

Special Instructions to Applicants:

To be considered for this position, you must submit an application.  Prior applications will not be used to fill this vacancy.  

A completed satisfactory background check will be required before hire.