English Professors
English professors teach college students about literature, writing, and language arts through lectures, discussions, and creative assignments. They design course materials, grade papers and exams, and help students improve their writing and critical thinking skills using both traditional classroom methods and modern online platforms. These educators also conduct research, publish academic papers, and work with other faculty to develop new programs. Most English professors need a master's or doctoral degree and enjoy collaborating with colleagues while having flexibility in their teaching approach.
Did you know?
The academic job market for English professors is extremely competitive, typically requiring a PhD and extensive teaching or research experience for tenure-track positions.
At a glance
Typical average pay
$72,300 Avg/yr
Growth
Stable
Top skill
Reading Comprehension
Things to consider
Employment Type Variations
Many positions are adjunct or part-time roles with limited benefits and job security, while tenure-track positions offer stability but are increasingly rare.
Research and Publication Expectations
Most four-year institutions expect faculty to engage in scholarly research and publish academic work in addition to teaching responsibilities.
Key responsibilities
Keep abreast of developments in the field by reading current literature, talking with colleagues, and participating in professional conferences.
Perform administrative duties, such as serving as department head.
Recruit, train, and supervise department personnel, such as faculty and student writing instructors.
Teach writing or communication classes.
Schedule courses.