Literature Professor

Literature Professors specialize in the study of literature, both classic and contemporary. They teach courses on literary history, theory, and criticism, and they guide students in the analysis and interpretation of literary texts. Literature Professors may also conduct research on literature and publish their findings in academic journals.

Education and Training

Literature Professors typically have a PhD in English or a related field. They may also have a master's degree in English or a related field. Some Literature Professors have a bachelor's degree in English or a related field, but they typically have additional experience in teaching or research.

Skills and Responsibilities

Literature Professors typically have the following skills and responsibilities:

• Teaching courses on literary history, theory, and criticism
• Guiding students in the analysis and interpretation of literary texts
• Conducting research on literature and publishing their findings in academic journals
• Advising students on their coursework and research
• Serving on committees and participating in departmental governance

Tools and Technologies

Literature Professors typically use the following tools and technologies:

• Computers
• Word processing software
• Presentation software
• Library databases
• Online research tools

Career Growth

Literature Professors may advance to become department chairs, deans, or provosts. They may also move into research or administrative roles. Some Literature Professors also work as freelance writers or editors.

Transferable Skills

Literature Professors develop a variety of skills that are transferable to other careers, including:

• Communication skills
• Critical thinking skills
• Research skills
• Writing skills

Day-to-Day Work

A typical day for a Literature Professor may include:

• Teaching classes
• Meeting with students
• Conducting research
• Writing papers
• Attending conferences

Challenges

Literature Professors face a number of challenges, including:

• The need to keep up with the latest scholarship in their field
• The pressure to publish research
• The need to balance teaching, research, and service
• The challenges of working with students from diverse backgrounds

Projects

Literature Professors may work on a variety of projects, including:

• Researching and writing books and articles
• Developing new courses
• Organizing conferences
• Editing journals

Personal Growth

Literature Professors have the opportunity to grow intellectually and professionally in a number of ways, including:

• Reading and studying literature
• Conducting research
• Teaching students
• Attending conferences
• Participating in professional organizations

Personality Traits and Personal Interests

Literature Professors typically have the following personality traits and personal interests:

• A love of reading and literature
• Strong communication skills
• Critical thinking skills
• Research skills
• Writing skills

Self-Guided Projects

Students who are interested in becoming Literature Professors can complete a number of self-guided projects to better prepare themselves for this role, including:

• Reading widely in literature
• Writing essays and research papers
• Attending literary events
• Volunteering in a library or bookstore
• Tutoring students in English

Online Courses

Online courses can be a helpful way to learn about literature and to develop the skills needed to become a Literature Professor. Online courses can provide students with the opportunity to:

• Learn about literary history, theory, and criticism
• Analyze and interpret literary texts
• Conduct research on literature
• Develop writing skills
• Prepare for teaching

Online courses can be a helpful way to supplement traditional classroom instruction or to learn about literature at a distance. However, online courses alone are not enough to prepare someone for a career as a Literature Professor. Students who are interested in becoming Literature Professors should also complete a degree program in English or a related field.