Depending on their areas of expertise, university professors in English may teach courses in literature, composition, rhetoric, creative writing, linguistics, and/or ESL. They typically teach several courses per quarter or semester and may hold adjunct or tenure-track positions; those on the tenure-track have much better job security and benefits. In order to be hired as tenure-track faculty at a four-year university, one must have a terminal degree (PhD or MFA). In addition to teaching, tenure-track university professors are typically expected to publish research or creative work, and to participate in university service. Adjunct university faculty need at least a Master’s degree and are not required to publish or do university service, although some do.Please note that in addition to an undergraduate degree in English, CSUSB offers a Masters of Arts in English Composition with concentrations in composition, literature, or applied linguistics and TESL. Our Masters program also provides students with an excellent foundation for PhD-level studies.
Skills and Responsibilities
Have expertise in one or more areas of English StudiesCreate course syllabi, select course texts, and design assignments and activitiesHave passion and talent for working with students from various cultural backgroundsTeach multiple classes per quarter or semester(For tenure-track profesors) Publish research or creative work, serve on committees, and participate in other forms of university governance and service
Education Requirements
- Master’s Degree in English for non-tenure-track (i.e., adjunct) positions
- PhD or MFA for tenure-track positions
Where They Work
An English professor will work at various public and private universities in the U.S. In California, these include UC and CSU campuses, as well as private liberal arts colleges and universities.