Qualifications English Departments Prefer for New Teachers of Business and Technical Writing: Is it Time to Reassess our Degree Programs?

Abstract

Based on a survey of English departments, this article, after predicting a con tinuing strong demand for teachers of business and technical writing in English departments, presents and analyzes the qualifications those depart ments prefer when hiring new faculty to teach business and technical writing. The response indicates that the most attractive candidates for these positions will be those who have completed degree programs that combine the study of literature and composition. These preferences suggest that some English de partments should consider making their degree programs more flexible and demanding.