How to Become a College English Professor (Jane Eyre to Job Offer)

how to become a college english professor

If you’ve ever been captivated by literature, intrigued by language structure, or pondered over the thought of becoming a college English professor, you’ve landed in the right place.

In this guide, we’ll delve into the precise steps you need to undertake to embark on your journey to becoming a college English professor. We’ll discuss:

  • The skills you need.
  • The educational journey you should consider.
  • How to secure a position as a college English professor.

So, whether you’re a literature novice or an experienced academic looking to broaden your horizons, stay with us.

We’re about to demystify the roadmap to becoming a college English professor.

Let’s embark on this intellectual journey!

Contents show

Steps to Become a College English Professor

 

Step 1: Earn a Bachelor’s Degree in English or a Related Field

Acquiring a Bachelor’s degree is the first step towards becoming a College English Professor.

This degree must be in English or a related field such as Literature or Creative Writing.

The coursework should include various aspects of English including grammar, literature, composition, and critical theory.

During your undergraduate studies, it’s essential to hone your writing skills as well as your critical thinking ability.

You should aim for high grades as graduate programs are often competitive.

It’s also beneficial to gain some teaching or tutoring experience while pursuing your Bachelor’s degree.

This could be as a private tutor or as a teaching assistant in your college.

Additionally, consider developing a broad understanding of various genres, historical periods, and cultural perspectives within the field of English.

This will offer a strong foundation for your future research and teaching.

Remember, becoming a College English Professor is not just about teaching.

It’s about engaging students in discussions, promoting critical thinking, and fostering a love for the written word.

Thus, your undergraduate studies should reflect these aspects.

 

Step 2: Pursue a Master’s Degree in English Literature, Composition, or Rhetoric

After completing your bachelor’s degree, the next step to becoming a college English professor is to earn a Master’s degree.

Ideally, this degree should be in English Literature, Composition, or Rhetoric.

During this period, you will deepen your understanding of English literature and linguistics, research methodologies, theory and criticism, and gain advanced writing skills.

You will have the opportunity to choose a concentration area such as Victorian literature, 20th-century literature, creative writing, or technical writing, among others.

This will depend on your career interests and the areas you wish to focus on in your teaching career.

Also, you may need to complete a thesis or capstone project that shows your ability to conduct original research.

Moreover, it is beneficial to gain teaching experience during this phase.

Many institutions offer teaching assistantships to graduate students, which not only provide valuable experience but also help in reducing tuition costs.

It is also a good idea to attend academic conferences and publish articles in scholarly journals to bolster your academic CV.

Remember, admission to a Master’s program is competitive and requires a strong academic record, high GRE scores, and excellent letters of recommendation.

So, ensure you start preparing early for your application.

After completing your Master’s degree, you can either go into the workforce or continue with your education by pursuing a Doctorate, which is typically required for tenure-track positions in colleges and universities.

 

Step 3: Gain Teaching Experience as a Graduate Assistant or Tutor

In order to pursue a role as a College English Professor, gaining practical teaching experience is a critical step.

Many colleges and universities offer Graduate Assistantship positions, where you can teach undergraduate classes or assist a professor while you complete your graduate studies.

This not only provides you with essential experience but also allows you to make connections in the academic world.

Another way to gain teaching experience is to work as a tutor, either at your university’s writing center or at private institutions.

Tutoring can help you develop the skills necessary for explaining complex literary and writing concepts in a way that’s easy for students to understand.

These experiences can also provide you with opportunities to develop your own teaching style and philosophy, both of which are important when applying for professorship positions.

Remember, the aim is not just to teach, but to inspire students to have a lifelong love for English literature and writing.

 

Step 4: Develop a Specialization or Focus Area

In the world of academia, specificity is key.

Aspiring college English professors should consider developing a particular area of focus or specialization within the broad field of English.

This could be a specific period (like Victorian literature or American Modernism), a genre (such as poetry or drama), or a thematic area (like feminist literature or postcolonial studies).

Having a specialization can not only make you more attractive to prospective employers, but it can also enhance your teaching and research.

It enables you to dig deep into a particular area, contributing to academic discourse and shaping the way future generations understand and appreciate literature.

While you are pursuing your graduate studies, explore different areas of English literature and language to find your passion.

Take courses in a variety of areas and engage in independent research projects.

Attend academic conferences and network with other scholars in your field to gain insights and develop your expertise.

Remember, your area of focus should not only be something you are passionate about, but also one in which you can make a significant academic contribution.

Once you’ve established your focus area, you can refine it further during your doctoral studies through your dissertation – an original piece of research on a topic of your choice.

This will position you as an expert in your field and prepare you for a career as a College English Professor.

 

Step 5: Publish Scholarly Work in Academic Journals

As an aspiring College English Professor, it is important to contribute to the field by publishing your scholarly work in academic journals.

This not only enhances your CV but also establishes your academic credibility in the field of English Literature or Linguistics.

The process of publishing may start during your doctoral studies or post-doctoral research, where your original research and insights can be transformed into scholarly papers.

Be prepared for an intensive process that includes drafting, revising, peer review and often, resubmission.

Try to choose respected and well-known academic journals in your field.

Publications in such journals are often considered more prestigious, and they can enhance your reputation in the academic community.

Remember that the process may take some time, but consistent publishing will establish you as an expert in your field.

Creating, submitting, and defending your scholarly articles also provides you with valuable experience in the rigorous academic discourse that is integral to a professor’s role.

This process allows you to demonstrate your ability to conduct in-depth research, critically analyze literature, and communicate effectively—skills that are vital for a successful career as a College English Professor.

 

Step 6: Obtain a Doctorate in English or a Closely Related Discipline

Pursuing a doctorate degree in English or a related field is generally the last step in the academic journey of becoming a College English Professor.

This step is crucial, as most colleges and universities require their professors to have a doctoral degree.

While a master’s degree may grant you the opportunity to teach at community colleges or other two-year institutions, a PhD is often required for four-year universities and for those who wish to advance to higher positions.

The focus of your doctoral studies should closely align with what you plan to teach, as this is the opportunity to specialize in your chosen area of English literature or linguistics.

During your PhD program, you will be expected to complete a dissertation, which involves conducting original research in your area of interest.

This may include areas such as literary criticism, language acquisition, or cultural studies.

This process can take anywhere from 4 to 6 years, depending on your program and the complexity of your research.

While completing your PhD, you may also have opportunities to teach or assist in undergraduate courses, which will give you invaluable experience and help you build a strong teaching portfolio.

This real-world experience can be crucial for obtaining a future position as a College English Professor.

Postdoctoral research or fellowship can also be a beneficial step after obtaining your PhD, as it allows you to continue your research, publish your findings, and gain additional teaching experience.

This can further increase your chances of securing a position as a College English Professor.

 

Step 7: Present Research at Academic Conferences

Presenting your research at academic conferences is an integral part of becoming a college English professor.

This step not only helps to build your reputation in the academic world, but also offers networking opportunities with other professionals in your field.

Start by identifying relevant conferences in your area of interest.

These can range from regional to international events, and can focus on anything from literature to linguistic studies.

Once you’ve identified a suitable conference, you’ll need to submit an abstract of your research, following the specific guidelines provided by the conference organizers.

If your abstract is accepted, you’ll be invited to present your research at the conference.

This could be in the form of a poster presentation, a panel discussion, or a traditional paper presentation.

In any case, be prepared to discuss your research in detail, answer questions, and receive feedback from your peers.

Remember, presenting at conferences is not just about sharing your work.

It’s also about engaging with the scholarly community, learning about recent developments in your field, and establishing collaborations for future research.

These experiences can be invaluable when it comes to securing a position as a college English professor.

In addition, presenting at conferences can often lead to opportunities to publish your research in academic journals, another crucial step on the path to becoming a college English professor.

Make sure to seize these opportunities whenever they arise.

 

Step 8: Build a Professional Academic CV

As a prospective College English Professor, it is imperative to build a robust and comprehensive academic Curriculum Vitae (CV) that showcases your academic and professional achievements and experiences.

Unlike a regular resume, an academic CV is focused on your scholarly credentials and achievements.

Start by listing your contact information and academic background, including details about your bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees.

Include your dissertation title and adviser, if applicable.

Next, document your teaching experiences, research projects, and publications.

It’s important to note all the courses you have taught as a graduate student or as an instructor at other institutions.

Highlight any teaching awards or recognitions you may have received.

List your research interests and provide brief descriptions of your completed and ongoing research projects.

Cite your published works, including books, book chapters, peer-reviewed journal articles, conference proceedings, reviews, and any other relevant publications.

Include any professional development activities such as attending conferences, workshops, seminars, and other scholarly gatherings.

It’s also crucial to highlight any grants, fellowships, or scholarships you’ve received.

Also, note any leadership roles or administrative experiences you’ve had within academic settings, such as serving as department chair or on various committees.

Remember to include references, typically professors or colleagues who can speak to your qualifications and skills as an English professor.

Lastly, keep your CV updated and tailored for each application, highlighting the most relevant experiences and accomplishments for the particular institution or position you are applying to.

A well-crafted academic CV can help you stand out in the competitive world of academia and pave the way to becoming a College English Professor.

 

Step 9: Apply for College Teaching Positions

Once you have completed your Ph.D. and have a significant amount of teaching experience, you can begin applying for college teaching positions.

Start by preparing a compelling CV that highlights your academic achievements, research work, publications, teaching experience, and any additional skills or qualifications that make you stand out as a candidate.

It’s also crucial to have a well-crafted cover letter that explains why you’re interested in the position and how your skills and experience align with the job requirements.

Remember, each application should be tailored to the specific institution and position to which you are applying.

To increase your chances of getting an interview, it is beneficial to have strong letters of recommendation from your Ph.D. advisors, senior academics, or anyone who can vouch for your teaching abilities and academic expertise.

Keep an eye on job boards, academic journals, and university websites for job postings.

Apply to multiple positions to increase your chances of landing a job.

Once you get called for an interview, prepare by studying the university’s mission and goals, understanding the department’s needs, and familiarizing yourself with the courses they offer.

Remember, the hiring process in academia can often take longer than in other industries, so patience is key.

You may also want to consider applying for temporary or adjunct positions, as these can often lead to full-time opportunities.

 

Step 10: Engage in Continuing Professional Development

As a College English Professor, it’s crucial that you commit to lifelong learning and engage in continuous professional development.

This field is always evolving and presenting new research, methodologies, and pedagogical approaches, so staying current is key to maintaining relevance and effectiveness in your teaching.

You can participate in professional development in a variety of ways.

Many institutions offer workshops, seminars, or courses focused on the latest teaching strategies, classroom management techniques, or technology integration.

These opportunities not only provide new information and skills but also offer a platform for networking and idea exchange with your colleagues.

Furthermore, you should regularly read academic journals, books, and articles in your field to stay informed about the latest research and theories in literature and linguistics.

This will help you incorporate up-to-date content into your lectures and discussions, enhancing the academic experience for your students.

Professional organizations, such as the Modern Language Association (MLA) or the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE), offer resources and networking opportunities for English professors.

They host annual conferences where you can present your research, attend presentations by other professionals in your field, and meet with publishers and vendors.

Consider seeking additional certifications or endorsements in specific areas of interest, such as creative writing or TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages).

These can not only enhance your expertise but also increase your marketability and employability.

Remember, the field of academia thrives on the sharing and discussion of ideas.

Engage in scholarly publishing, present your research at conferences, and seek peer feedback.

This can help you maintain a competitive edge in your career as a College English Professor.

 

College English Professor Roles and Responsibilities

College English Professors are responsible for educating students, preparing course materials, and conducting research in their field of expertise.

They balance the dual role of being an educator and an active academic scholar.

They have the following roles and responsibilities:

 

Teaching and Classroom Management

  • Develop and execute lesson plans that fulfill the curriculum requirements.
  • Conduct lectures, seminars, discussions, and other learning environments.
  • Manage classroom dynamics and maintain a conducive learning environment.

 

Educational Content Development

  • Prepare course materials such as syllabi, homework assignments, and handouts.
  • Design and revise curriculum based on course objectives and student needs.
  • Use a variety of teaching materials and techniques to engage students and enhance learning.

 

Assessment and Grading

  • Evaluate and grade students’ class work, assignments, and papers.
  • Provide regular feedback to students to enhance their learning and development.
  • Keep accurate student records and document student progress.

 

Student Guidance

  • Provide assistance to students during office hours or by appointment.
  • Guide students on academic matters and career opportunities.
  • Mentor students and advise them on academic projects.

 

Research and Publications

  • Conduct research in a particular field of knowledge and publish findings in professional journals, books, or electronic media.
  • Stay updated with latest developments in the field of English literature and linguistics.
  • Present research findings at conferences and seminars.

 

Collaboration

  • Collaborate with colleagues to address teaching and research issues.
  • Participate in faculty and college committees.

 

Professional Development

  • Participate in professional organizations and conferences.
  • Engage in continuous professional development and learning to improve teaching skills and subject knowledge.

 

Community Service

  • Contribute to the university and local community through participation in community service activities.

 

What Does a College English Professor Do?

A College English Professor works in universities and colleges where they educate students on different aspects of the English language and literature.

They design and deliver lectures on various topics such as prose, poetry, drama, linguistics, creative writing, and other forms of literary expression, all while ensuring they meet the educational standards set by the institution.

These professors often specialize in a specific area of English study, such as British literature, American literature, Shakespearean literature, or postcolonial literature, and they share this expertise with their students.

They provide reading assignments to students and conduct discussions in class to deepen their understanding of the texts.

They also assess student performance through examinations, essays, presentations, or creative writing projects.

In addition to their teaching responsibilities, College English Professors engage in academic research, contribute to scholarly publications, and often participate in academic conferences or seminars.

They also hold office hours for students who need additional assistance or want to explore topics in more depth.

Furthermore, they may serve on various academic and administrative committees within the institution.

College English Professors play a significant role in inspiring and guiding students to develop a deep appreciation for the English language and its literature, thereby enhancing their critical thinking, communication, and writing skills.

 

Essential College English Professor Skills

  • Subject-Matter Expertise: Professors must have deep knowledge and understanding of English literature and language. They should be familiar with various genres, authors, and literary periods, as well as linguistic theories and applications.
  • Communication: Professors must convey complex ideas clearly and compellingly to students. They need to be effective at both verbal and written communication, with proficiency in the English language being a must.
  • Teaching: The ability to plan and deliver engaging, informative lectures is vital. Professors should be adept at explaining difficult concepts in ways that students can understand.
  • Critical Thinking: Professors should be able to analyze texts critically, encouraging students to do the same. This skill is crucial for teaching literature and composition classes.
  • Research: English professors often contribute to their field through original research. Skills in research design, data analysis, and academic writing are essential.
  • Advising: Professors often serve as academic advisors, guiding students on course selection, career paths, and more. They should be knowledgeable about the curriculum and career options in the field of English.
  • Assessment: Professors must be skilled at assessing students’ understanding and progress. This includes designing and grading assignments and exams, providing constructive feedback, and tracking student performance.
  • Classroom Management: Professors need to create a conducive learning environment and manage classroom dynamics effectively. This includes addressing student issues, facilitating discussion, and maintaining discipline.
  • Technology: Professors should be proficient in educational technologies used for teaching and administration, such as learning management systems, presentation software, and grading systems.
  • Mentorship: Professors often serve as mentors, supporting students’ academic growth and personal development. Empathy, patience, and strong interpersonal skills are vital for this role.
  • Cultural Awareness: A good English professor should be sensitive to cultural diversity and able to incorporate multicultural perspectives in teaching. This is essential in teaching world literature and fostering an inclusive classroom environment.
  • Time Management: Professors have multiple responsibilities, including teaching, research, and service. Effective time management skills are crucial to balance these tasks and meet deadlines.
  • Continual Learning: The field of English is dynamic and evolving. Professors should be committed to continual learning and staying updated with the latest research and trends in their field.
  • Collaboration: Professors often work with colleagues on curriculum development, research projects, and committee work. They should be able to work effectively within teams and contribute to collective goals.
  • Public Speaking: As a significant part of their role involves delivering lectures, English professors should be comfortable speaking in front of large groups and be able to hold their audience’s attention.

 

College English Professor Career Path Progression

The Foundation: Graduate Teaching Assistant

The journey typically begins as a Graduate Teaching Assistant during your Master’s or Ph.D. program.

At this stage, you are refining your understanding of literature, linguistics, or creative writing, and beginning to teach under the supervision of more experienced professors.

Here are some tips for success in this role:

  1. Research: Develop research skills in your specific area of interest.
  2. Teaching Experience: Gain practical experience in teaching by assisting professors in their courses.
  3. Networking: Establish strong relationships with mentors and fellow academics.

 

The Ascent: Adjunct Professor

With your Ph.D. in hand, you may transition into the role of an Adjunct Professor.

You’ll take on more responsibility in teaching courses, continue your research, and likely begin publishing your work.

Here’s how to thrive in this stage:

  1. Teaching Excellence: Focus on improving your teaching skills, as student evaluations can impact your career progression.
  2. Publish Regularly: Maintain a steady stream of publications in reputable journals or book publishers.
  3. Academic Service: Participate in committees and contribute to the administrative work of your department.

 

Reaching New Heights: Tenure-Track Professor

The next step on the career ladder is the Tenure-Track Professor position.

At this stage, you’ll be expected to continue producing high-quality research, while also balancing a heavier teaching load and service commitments.

To excel as a Tenure-Track Professor:

  1. Research Impact: Strive for research that makes a significant impact in your field.
  2. Mentorship: Guide junior colleagues and graduate students, sharing your knowledge and experience.
  3. Leadership: Take on leadership roles within your department, demonstrating your commitment to the institution.

 

Beyond the Horizon: Tenured Professor and Beyond

After several years and a rigorous evaluation process, you might achieve tenure, providing job security and more freedom in your research and teaching.

Beyond this, you may aspire to become a Department Chair, Dean, or even a Provost.

Each of these roles involves greater responsibilities and strategic decision-making.

Here’s what to focus on:

  1. Leadership: Demonstrate your ability to lead and manage your department or faculty.
  2. Strategic Planning: Contribute to the strategic planning and vision of your institution.
  3. Continued Excellence: Maintain a high level of teaching and research, setting a standard for others in your department.

 

Pinnacle of Success: Distinguished Professor or University President

You may reach roles like Distinguished Professor or University President at the peak of the academic career ladder.

Here, you’ll be responsible for shaping the overall direction of the institution or your field, making critical decisions, and inspiring the next generation of scholars.

 

College English Professor Salary

Entry-Level English Professor

  • Median Salary: $45,000 – $65,000 per year
  • Entry-level English professors typically have 0-2 years of experience and hold a Ph.D. in English or a closely related field. They are generally responsible for teaching lower-level undergraduate courses.

 

Mid-Level English Professor

  • Median Salary: $65,000 – $85,000 per year
  • Mid-level professors have 2-5 years of experience and generally manage upper-level undergraduate and graduate courses. They may also start taking on more administrative duties in their department.

 

Senior English Professor

  • Median Salary: $85,000 – $105,000 per year
  • Senior English professors possess 5+ years of experience and are responsible for leading advanced courses, mentoring junior faculty, and conducting independent research. They often hold tenure or are on a tenure track.

 

Department Chair / Dean of English

  • Median Salary: $105,000 – $135,000+ per year
  • These roles require significant experience and often involve administrative duties such as managing department budgets, hiring faculty, and setting departmental strategies. They are generally held by tenured professors.

 

Provost / Vice President of Academic Affairs

  • Median Salary: $150,000 – $225,000+ per year
  • These high-level academic positions require extensive experience, a strong academic background, and demonstrated leadership abilities. They involve setting academic policies and strategies for the entire institution.

 

College English Professor Work Environment

College English Professors typically work in universities or colleges, although some may also be employed by community colleges or online education platforms.

The work environment is usually a blend of classrooms, offices, and libraries.

They not only teach in lecture halls and classrooms but also do research and prepare lessons in their offices or in libraries.

Some may work in a virtual environment when teaching online courses.

A significant part of their work involves preparing lectures, grading papers, advising students, and conducting research.

Consequently, their work schedule might extend beyond the typical working hours, especially during peak academic periods.

College English Professors often have the opportunity to take a sabbatical leave for research or writing.

They may also enjoy longer breaks compared to other professions, in line with academic holidays.

Depending on their tenure and reputation in the academic world, some English Professors may also get opportunities to deliver guest lectures at other institutions, participate in literary festivals, and attend or organize academic conferences.

 

FAQs About Becoming a College English Professor

What is needed to become a College English Professor?

To become a College English Professor, you need a deep understanding and passion for English literature and language.

This can be achieved through a combination of formal education and self-study.

Typically, you would need a Ph.D. in English or a related field.

However, some colleges may accept a master’s degree.

Key skills include strong command of English, excellent communication skills, research abilities, critical thinking, and the ability to inspire and engage students.

Understanding of pedagogical techniques and contemporary literary theory is also important.

 

How long does it take to be a College English Professor?

The time it takes to become a College English Professor can vary.

Typically, it requires at least eight years of higher education.

This includes four years for a bachelor’s degree, two years for a master’s degree, and a further four years for a doctorate.

In addition to this, you would need to gain experience through teaching assistantships or adjunct teaching roles.

Thus, it can take more than a decade to secure a tenure-track position as a College English Professor.

 

Can I be a College English Professor without a Ph.D.?

While it is possible to teach at a college level with a master’s degree, most full-time, tenure-track positions require a Ph.D. Having a doctorate not only enhances your job prospects but also enables you to conduct advanced research and contribute to the field of English literature and language.

However, adjunct or community college positions often accept candidates with a master’s degree in English.

 

Is being a College English Professor a stressful job?

Being a College English Professor can be stressful at times due to the pressures of publishing scholarly work, preparing lectures, grading papers, advising students, and serving on academic committees.

However, many professors find the intellectual stimulation, freedom to pursue their passion, and the opportunity to shape young minds immensely rewarding, which can offset the stress.

 

What are the prospects for College English Professors in the next decade?

The job prospects for College English Professors depend on various factors such as budget constraints of educational institutions and the number of retiring professors.

However, as English is a core subject in most academic institutions, there will always be a need for English professors.

Those with a strong record of published research and teaching experience are likely to have the best prospects.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Stepping into the world of academia as a college English professor can be a challenging journey, but it is a fulfilling and enriching endeavor.

Equipped with the necessary skills, education, and determination, you’re well on your way to shaping the minds of future generations.

Remember, the path may seem daunting, but the rewards are immeasurable. Your teachings could inspire the next great literary mind, spark a newfound love for reading, or encourage critical thinking in ways never imagined before.

So, take that first step. Immerse yourself in literature. Network with fellow educators. And most importantly, never cease to learn and grow.

Because the world of academia eagerly awaits your contribution.

And if you’re looking for personalized guidance on starting or advancing your career as a college English professor, consider using our AI Career Path Advisor.

This complimentary tool is designed to offer tailored advice and resources to help you effectively navigate your career path in academia.

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