How to become an english language and literature teacher, postsecondary
Teach courses in English language and literature, including linguistics and comparative literature. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
Steps to get there
Most employers expect most of these occupations require graduate school. for example, they may require a master's degree, and some require a ph.d., m.d., or j.d. (law degree)..Extensive skill, knowledge, and experience are needed for these occupations. Many require more than five years of experience. For example, surgeons must complete four years of college and an additional five to seven years of specialized medical training to be able to do their job.
What english language and literature teachers, postsecondary do
- Evaluate and grade students' class work, assignments, and papers.
- Initiate, facilitate, and moderate classroom discussions.
- Maintain student attendance records, grades, and other required records.
- Assist students who need extra help with their coursework outside of class.
- Maintain regularly scheduled office hours to advise and assist students.
- Advise students on academic and vocational curricula and on career issues.
Skills that matter most
- Reading Comprehension
- Writing
- Speaking
- Active Listening
- Learning Strategies
- Active Learning
- Critical Thinking
- Monitoring
Is english language and literature teacher, postsecondary a good career?
On the numbers, this job pays above the typical job. Median pay is 54% above the all-occupation median. Whether it fits you depends on the work itself, the schooling you are willing to do and where you want to live.
Where it pays most
- California $130,490
- New Hampshire $98,650
- Connecticut $97,310
- Oregon $91,870
- Michigan $90,240
English Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary salary by state and city
Sources: O*NET® 31.0 (CC BY 4.0, USDOL/ETA) and BLS Employment Projections 2025–35. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025.