Assistant Professor of English

Position Title: Assistant Professor of English

Hours Per Week: 40

Posting Date: February 2026

Closing Date: Open until filled - To be hired by Fall 2026

Job Type: Full-time faculty appointment with 9-month teaching contract

Position Purpose: Qualified applicants are sought for a full-time Assistant Professor position in English with a Creative Writing emphasis. Duties will include teaching undergraduate English courses both in general education (i.e. composition) and in creative writing, as well as duties to the university such as student academic advising and serving on committees.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Provide quality instruction, which includes:
  • Reliable attendance in all courses as assigned
  • Timely grading
  • Timely submission of required paperwork and records
  • Appropriate use of office hours
  • Teaching that reflects sound practice
  • Use of varied and integrated strategies
  • Appropriate use of assessment to enhance course instruction
• Must show evidence of (or ideas for) methodology in teaching creative writing craft without relying solely on workshop.
• Provide quality student advising, which includes:
  • Appropriate and helpful responding to advisee concerns/questions
  • Timely response through email or other technologies
  • Accurate and detailed record keeping
  • Display of knowledge regarding program and university policies
• Demonstrate interpersonal/intrapersonal skills, especially in engaging with traditional and non-traditional university students.
• Commitment to practicing equity and inclusion within a diverse student community.
• Display evidence of a high level of personal agency and initiative.
• Possess ability to contribute positively to a dynamic setting with collaborative faculty.

Experience:

• Documentation of successful experience as an undergraduate professor or post-secondary teacher for English and Creative Writing courses.
• Evidence of a successful career in this or a related field.

Education:  MFA in Creative Writing; specialty in scriptwriting preferred; specialties in other genres considered

Additional Information: 

Cumberland University is a teaching-focused and student-centered undergraduate and master’s level university. Focus on student achievement and experience, as well as program quality and reputation, are primary responsibilities of the faculty.

In our Creative Writing track, we uphold and prioritize creative writing in the literary tradition.

Application Requirements:

Electronic submissions including the following are required:

• Cover letter
• Curriculum vitae
• Philosophy of teaching, including methods for teaching craft
• Unofficial graduate transcripts 
• List of 5 references with contact information