Teaching in Professional Writing
Applying for a Position in Professional Writing
Information on this page is relevant to graduate teaching assistants, lecturers already teaching at Purdue, and those interested in teaching in the writing program. Please review the required credentials below as you assemble your application materials, which includes the completed application form, a letter of application, a CV, and evidence of teaching effectiveness. Reach out to the Writing Program director (dilger@purdue.edu) with any questions.
Required Credentials for Teaching Business Writing and Technical Writing
Applicants with the following credentials will be considered for a PW appointment:
- A master’s degree in professional writing, rhetoric/composition, English, or comparable area (applicants who have nearly completed their master’s degree and who have some of the preferred credentials listed below may also be considered)
- Experience and demonstrated effectiveness teaching writing at the university level
- Formal mentoring in the teaching of writing at the university level
- Keen interest in and professional commitment to teaching technical and professional writing
- Experience in using computer technologies for writing
Preferred Credentials for Business Writing and Technical Writing
In addition to the above credentials, those applying for a PW appointment will be asked about their experience and skills related to:
- Teaching upper-level composition or professional writing courses
- Relevant graduate or undergraduate coursework, such as professional writing theory, research design, advanced technical or professional writing
- Professional writing in academia, industry, or government
- Professional development and/or publications in the field of professional writing
- 21st century composing technologies, including word processors, email, design programs, data visualization software, web writing tools, content management, and networking software
Professional Writing Mentorship
During their first semester, new instructors typically teach either Business Writing (ENGL 420) or Technical Writing (ENGL 421). At the same time, new instructors are expected to enroll in and successfully complete a formal practicum in the teaching of professional writing (ENGL 505M).
Instructors are expected to commit to teaching at least two continuous semesters in the program.
Demonstrating Teaching Effectiveness
Each semester they teach in PW, instructors demonstrate their teaching effectiveness by completing:
- Student evaluations
- Syllabus (syllabus review takes place before the beginning of each semester)
- Course materials (handouts, slides, assignments, materials)
- Student writing samples with teacher’s comments
- Class observations by the Writing Program Director or another member of the administation team
Professional Development
Instructors are strongly encouraged to develop and maintain their professional credentials. Some professional development opportunities include:
- Attendance and participation at staff meetings
- Participation at professional conferences related to professional writing
- Contribution to the development of program materials (e.g., website or project contributions)
- Professional consulting experience in business, industry, or government
- Research activity and/or publications in professional writing
- Teaching of other professional writing courses or other involvement in professional writing curricula