Assistant Professor of English Education

Description

The Division of Arts and Letters at Governors State University (GovState) invites applications for the position of Assistant Professor of English Education beginning the Fall 2026 semester. Candidates must hold a terminal degree in English Education or an Ed.D. with an advanced degree in English, or a closely related field with a specialization in teacher education. The ideal candidate will teach undergraduate and graduate courses in English methods, reading theory, writing theory, literature (particularly children’s and young adult literature), as well as supervise student teachers. The candidate will also teach first-year writing courses in GovState’s general education program. Preferred qualifications include a familiarity with NCTE standards for educator preparation, Illinois State Board of Education licensure assessments, educational technology, and curriculum design. In order to be a leading candidate in this search, in addition to the aforementioned requirements, the candidate must be experienced in the use of innovative curricular approaches that are student-centered, inquiry-based and hands-on, and demonstrate outstanding potential for excellence in teaching through a successful interview and/or classroom demonstration. Successful applicants should also be prepared to maintain a program of scholarship and provide meaningful service. Candidates may be required to teach at night, on weekends, online, or at off campus locations. 

Governors State University is the only regional, public, comprehensive university in Chicago’s south suburban area, serving approximately 5,000 students annually. GovState provides accessible, high value undergraduate and graduate education to culturally and economically diverse students. GovState is designated as a minority-serving institution, a predominantly Black institution, and an emerging Hispanic-serving institution reflecting the demographics of the region and communities we serve.  With among the lowest undergraduate tuition in Illinois, GovState offers accredited programs that have earned high praise from national accrediting agencies. GovState has developed a state-of-the art General Education program and student academic and support services to foster student and community engagement. New faculty at GovState must demonstrate enthusiasm and ability to work with students at all levels, from first-year to graduate.

Through its Institutional Strategic Framework, Better Together, GovState emphasizes excellence, access, and innovation. Students benefit from the university’s high academic quality, range of convenient class times, increasing hybrid and online offerings, and outstanding educational value. GovState is a national leader in successful transfer of community college students to universities, and is leading through the Kresge-supported Dual Degree Program, with features such as tuition lock-in at GovState for academically eligible community college students who commit to earn an Associate Degree and attend college full-time. GovState offers several applied doctoral degrees in health, counseling fields and Interdisciplinary Leadership.

The exceptionally beautiful campus is conveniently located within easy reach by road and rail to Chicago and surrounding communities that have a wealth of cultural and natural attractions. The highly diverse region GovState serves has a number of high performing schools and engaged communities as well as struggling urban, suburban, and rural communities. GovState serves as a public square, working to foster educational opportunities for all populations.

Salary and benefits package are commensurate with education and experience.

Required and Preferred Qualifications

Minimum Requirements

1. Ph.D., Ed.D, or other terminal degree in English, English Education or closely-related field. ABD will be considered, all degree requirements must be completed by August 15, 2026.

2. License to teach secondary language arts (grades 9-12) or ability to ensure license is in good standing prior to hire (e.g. renewal of lapsed license).

3. Demonstrated knowledge and ability to teach undergraduate and graduate courses.

4. Demonstrated ability to maintain an active research agenda consistent with the maintenance of AQ (“Academically Qualified”) faculty status under accreditation standards.

Preferred Requirements

1. Familiarity with NCTE standards for educator preparation, Illinois State Board of Education licensure assessments, educational technology, and curriculum design.

2. Experience supervising student teachers.

3. Experience teaching first-year writing.

4. Interest in and ability to develop and teach online course

Supplemental Information

Candidates should submit a cover letter detailing: teaching experience, teaching philosophy, and research interests; a curriculum vitae; and three letters of recommendation. For full consideration, please submit materials by February 15, 2026. Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled. Initial interviews will be held via Zoom or Teams. Please contact Dr. Christopher White, cwhite@govst.edu if you have questions.

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