The Department of Art & Design at East Tennessee State University invites applications for a full-time, tenure-track position as Assistant Professor of Graphic Design, beginning August, 2026. We seek a dynamic and innovative designer-educator who will contribute to our thriving program, preparing students for professional practice while engaging them in critical inquiry, design history, and creative experimentation. The successful candidate will demonstrate professional experience in visual communication through the lens of illustration, visual storytelling, and sequential imagery. A strong foundation in the history, theory, and contemporary practices of graphic design is essential, along with the ability to engage comfortably within a multidisciplinary art and design department. The department values a collaborative and collegial work environment; candidates should demonstrate their ability to contribute positively to this culture in their application materials.

Responsibilities

Teach undergraduate and graduate courses in graphic design, with an emphasis on beginning and advanced illustration, as well as courses spanning introductory through capstone levels.
Mentor students, fostering professional development and creative exploration.
Maintain an active program of scholarly, creative, or professional activity.
Contribute to curriculum development and program growth, with an emphasis on contemporary practices and interdisciplinary connections.
Participate in departmental, college, and university service.

Required Qualifications

M.F.A. in Graphic Design or a terminal degree in a closely related field (must be completed by August 15, 2026).
Professional experience in illustration, visual storytelling, and sequential imagery.
Strong foundation in the history, theory, and contemporary practices of graphic design.
Demonstrated ability to teach undergraduate and graduate courses in graphic design, including beginning and advanced illustration, and courses from introductory through capstone levels.
Ability to engage and collaborate effectively within a multidisciplinary Department of Art & Design.
Evidence of the ability to contribute positively to a collaborative and collegial departmental culture.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with 2D/3D illustration, animation, video art and sound design
Familiarity with studio photography (preferred but not required)

Application Instructions

Exempt positions are only required to be posted for a minimum of fourteen (14) calendar days. The closing date for this posting is subject to change without notice to applicants.
Employment is contingent on a satisfactory background check.
Please submit the following:
Cover Letter detailing the candidate’s qualifications and interest in the position
Curriculum Vitae
Teaching Philosophy
Research Statement
Transcripts
Sample Syllabi for any graphic design courses taught
PDF Portfolio of 15-20 examples of the candidate's own work
PDF Portfolio of 15-20 examples of the candidate's student work

Please be mindful of the size of your PDF portfolio files. Recommended 15 MB or less per file.

For information on benefits, please visit www.etsu.edu/human-resources/benefits/.

University Overview

East Tennessee State University (ETSU) is an institution with over 14,000 diverse students highly ranked graduate and undergraduate programs. Located in the Southern Appalachian Mountains of Northeast Tennessee, ETSU serves as a hub for community, discovery, and service. Aligned with the institution's mission, we value efforts to engage in teaching, scholarship, creative activities, and service that involve community partners and address significant societal needs in our region and beyond. Recognized in 2024 as a Great College to Work For, recent strategic initiatives prioritize the institution’s focus on community engagement.

For inquiries about the position, please get in touch with Kelly Celeste Porter at porterk@etsu.edu.

East Tennessee State University

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East Tennessee State University: Assistant Professor Graphic Design