Assistant Professor (Tenure Track) - English (26-27)

Position Overview

The English Department at DePaul University invites applications for a full-time tenure-track faculty position in Creative Writing with a specialization in speculative fiction at the rank of Assistant Professor. We particularly welcome applications from writers who can teach publishing courses and who are interested in working with publishing ventures within the department, especially our socially conscious, Chicago-based publishing initiative, Big Shoulders Books. DePaul's nationally recognized creative-writing program specializes in hands-on training in book, magazine, and web publishing; in addition to Big Shoulders Books, the English Department is home to Poetry East, Slag Glass City, Crook & Folly and DePaul's Blue Book. In addition to a BA in English with a concentration in creative writing, the department offers both an MFA and an MA in Writing and Publishing. Initial appointment to this position will begin in Fall 2026.

The successful candidate will teach the standard teaching load (6 courses per year on the quarter system, usually 2/2/2) in Creative Writing with a specialization in speculative fiction, including science fiction, fantasy, and/or horror. In addition, the ability to teach in one or more of the following areas would be desirable: publishing, poetry, nonfiction, and/or hybrid forms.

The successful candidate will also be expected to direct 1-3 student MFA theses a year and contribute to the department's offerings in introductory literature and creative writing courses in DePaul University's Liberal Studies Program. The successful candidate will also be expected to engage in sustained scholarly creative work appropriate to the position and participate in the full range of faculty responsibilities, including academic advising, mentoring undergraduate research, departmental service, and service on committees. The Department and the College of Arts and Social Sciences actively support new faculty with mentoring and professional development opportunities, including paid pre-tenure leave for those on the standard six-year tenure track, startup support, and internal grants for conference travel and research.

Qualifications

Among the qualifications required for appointment is the PhD or MFA degree (in hand or expected by first quarter of academic year 2026-27). Candidates must have published, or have under contract, at least one novel or collection of short stories with a nationally recognized press. Candidates must demonstrate commitment to and potential excellence in both undergraduate and graduate teaching.

Application Instructions

A complete application will be comprised of: 1) A cover letter describing your teaching, creative work, mentorship, and service, detailing how you would contribute departmentally and institutionally; 2) A Curriculum Vitae; 3) Letters of Reference from three recommenders. *By providing three letters of reference, you agree that we may contact your letter writers through our applicant tracking system.

Review of applications will begin on November 30, 2025, and will continue until the position is filled. Completed applications received by the 11/30/25 deadline will be guaranteed full consideration.

Questions about the position can be addressed to: MHARVEY7@depaul.edu or Prof. Miles Harvey, Chair of the Department of English, at 773-325-1778.

Salary Information

The salary range for this 10-month position is $68,500 - $72,000, commensurate with qualifications and experience.

DePaul University offers excellent benefits, including medical, dental, retirement, paid time off, and tuition benefit. Further information regarding benefits can be found here.