To become a composition specialist, an aspiring professional should take college level coursework in writing, language, and literary studies. The majority of composition specialists either teach at the college level or help organizations write and design media publications. For those who wish to teach, pursuing the equivalent of a U.S. graduate level education is necessary. In addition to education, teaching experience in composition is recommended, either while pursuing a graduate degree or shortly afterwards.
When deciding to become a composition specialist, a person might want to consider which career path is most suitable. For instance, some individuals may wish to become full English composition professors at a major university. Others might want to focus on becoming an adjunct instructor for a community college on a part-time basis. In addition to teaching, composition specialists can also gain employment as writers and media publication designers for a variety of industries that produce internal and external marketing materials.
Once a career path is chosen, pursuing the appropriate education courses and degrees is crucial. Degree requirements to become a composition specialist that teaches college or secondary level students are either the equivalent of a U.S. master's or doctorate degree. Those who wish to embark on a teaching career might consider majoring in their native country's language at the undergraduate level and first gaining experience in a middle or secondary school. Depending upon the individual's location, professional certification and licensure may be required in addition to a college degree.
Aspiring composition specialists who have their heart set on becoming a college lecturer or professor can pursue the equivalent of a U.S. master's degree in writing, English, or their country's official language. Adjunct instructors at the community college level can typically find a position with a master's degree. Some universities also allow their lecturers to teach without a doctorate degree. Associate and tenured professors must usually complete a doctorate degree program before being hired into their positions.
Besides education, some degree of teaching experience is necessary to become a composition specialist. This experience can be gained during graduate school through fellowships and teaching assistant jobs. An aspiring composition specialist might also consider teaching an online or correspondence course. Communication skills, which are essential to the duties of a composition specialist, can also be developed through customer service and sales related jobs during graduate school.
Individuals who wish to become composition specialists who write and design media publications do not necessarily have to obtain a degree. The ability to demonstrate writing and communication skills is often more important than education in these types of positions. Entry-level positions with government agencies and small businesses are one of the better ways to gain experience and skill development in this field. Internships may also be available for college students, in addition to on-campus leadership roles that allow those who wish to become a composition specialist to design, create, and distribute marketing materials.
