Writing a teaching statement that committees read
Structure, evidence and length — what selection committees look for.
Updated 14 Oct 2026
Start with your philosophy, briefly
Two or three sentences on how students learn best in your discipline, and why. Avoid generic claims; tie them to a course you have taught.
Show evidence
Cite course evaluations, redesigned syllabi, student outcomes, or peer observations. Committees weigh evidence over aspiration.
Map to the institution
Name two courses from the institution's catalogue you could teach from day one, and one elective you would propose.
Keep it to one or two pages
Most committees read dozens of statements per vacancy.