Graduate Specialization in Rhetoric & Composition
Teaching Opportunities
We attempt to fund every one of our students with a TA-ship for a minimum of four years. In some cases, where military service precludes accepting state funding sources, we make appropriate accommodations to the instructional plan. Summer teaching opportunities (including teaching distance education) are available to supplement your salary after you complete coursework.
Year 1 - Teaching Introductory Writing. You will be mentored by a faculty member as you teach first-year writing in the Rhode Island tradition.
Year 2 - Teaching Gen Ed Literature. All second-year TAs are then trained in the teaching of Literature, an opportunity not available in most graduate programs. Graduate students may also apply for an alternative teaching assignment in the Writing Center. This experience in one-on-one writing instruction complements students' experiences in the classrooms as well as provides a chance to participate in research and staff development projects.
Year 3 - Teaching beyond first-year writing. Back on the Writing rotation, TAs have the chance to teach a host of different writing classes: Writing for Community Service, Travel Writing, Scientific and Technical Writing, Business Writing, Writing in Electronic Environments, and Public Writing, to name just a few.
Year 4 - Teach Literature again, or swap with an English student and teach even more upper level Writing courses.
We would like each graduate student to leave URI having taught a range of courses in a structured and supportive environment.
