Academic
Cover Letter
When
applying for an academic position a cover letter
is your first chance to make a strong impression.
Below are some tips for presenting your
qualifications most effectively.
Difference
between an academic cover letter and business
cover letters
The
academic cover letter is similar but the content
and length will differ. The academic cover letter
goes into more depth and thus can possibly be up
to two pages long.
Other
Advice on an academic cover letter
Give
your contact information for where you can be
reached if you will be away during the summer.
If
you have some special connection to their school
such as having done a previous degree there or
having grown up in the area then it might be goos
to mention this connection.
Indicate
that you will forward on request writing samples,
teaching evaluations, letters of recommendation,
etc.
Writing
an Academic Cover Letter
They
typically are longer than other cover letters (2
pages rather than one) and they detail the
candidate’s research and teaching goals.
Research
the institution and department. For example, find
out whether it is more research-oriented or
teaching-oriented. Find out what the research
interests are of the faculty.
More
Tips
Try
to find out who will read your cover letter and
address your letter to that specific person.
Send
your application in early. It is more likely to
be reviewed thoroughly if it arrives ahead of the
last minute inundation at the deadline.
Send
only what is asked for, but indicate that you
would be happy to furnish the committee with
additional materials if requested.
Mention
your major professor by name if (s)he is well
known in your field.
For
a position with a small undergraduate college,
emphasize your teaching experience early in the
letter.
Describe
your plans for future research.
Have
someone proofread and critique your cover letter.
More interview help:
 Winning
Interview Skills - So,
you’ve landed an interview. Now what?
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