Assistant Professor of Graphic Design

The Visual and Theatre Arts Department at the University of Tennessee at Martin seeks an Assistant Professor of Graphic Design who is student-centered, collaborative, and energetic. An ability to spark curiosity, inspire experimentation, and instill professional habits is desired for the position. Candidates should be prepared to teach all levels of graphic design and contribute to foundations and portfolio reviews. Potential courses taught may include Graphic Design I and II, Page Layout, Advertising, Illustration, Photography, UX/UI, Video, and Animation. As a full-time, tenure-track appointment, candidates should be prepared to perform effectively in teaching, creative scholarship, and service. Other responsibilities include, but are not limited to, collaborative oversight and operation of the graphic design program and its lab, supervising internships, mentoring and advising undergraduate students, contributing to retention and recruitment efforts, and fostering a positive and productive departmental culture.

The position start date is August 1, 2026.

Qualifications

• A terminal degree (MFA, MDes, PhD in Design) in Graphic Design, Visual Communication Design, Visual Studies, or related field completed by August 1, 2026.
• The ideal candidate has a background, education or experience in Graphic Design, Digital Arts, or Communications.
• Demonstrated professional design experience (client-driven or self-initiated) with a focus on creative practice or research encompassing areas such as graphic design foundations, UX/UI design, motion or video.
• Preferred - One (1) year teaching experience (including graduate teaching).
• A background search will be required of the successful candidate.

About UTM

The University of Tennessee at Martin is a primary regional university in the University of Tennessee System that includes the main campus and six regional centers in West and Middle Tennessee. UT Martin students experience high-quality academic programs, excellent facilities and outstanding faculty members whose primary focus is teaching, while also engaging in meaningful undergraduate research, service, and outreach initiatives. Fall 2025 enrollment was approximately 8,000 students who came to the university from 88 of Tennessee's 95 counties, 43 states, and 24 countries. The campus is located in Northwest Tennessee approximately 125 miles north of Memphis and 150 miles west of Nashville.

About the Department

The department has ten full-time faculty members who support the Bachelor of Fine Arts degree program with areas of emphasis in Visual Art, Art Education, Dance Education, Graphic Design, and Theatre and the Bachelor of Art in Arts in Studio, Dance, Graphic Design, Theatre Tech, and Acting. There are approximately 110 majors in the BFA and BAA programs. We encourage a hands-on learning environment allowing students to graduate with experience across the arts.

To Apply

• Cover letter explaining interest in the position
• Updated Curriculum Vitae or Resume
• Personal teaching philosophy
• Portfolio of personal work (10 samples)
• Portfolio of student work samples (10 samples)
• Unofficial copy of transcripts
• Names and contact information of three (3) references. Note that only candidates who reach the final stage will have their references contacted.

Application:

Applicants must apply online and attach a letter of application stating qualifications for the position as described, statement of teaching philosophy, a portfolio of personal professional works (10 samples), a portfolio of student work (10 samples), and a complete resume of educational and professional experience (must include at least three references), unofficial transcripts. For additional information please contact: Prof. Sarah Haig, Chair, Department of Visual and Theatre Arts, shaig1@utm.edu.

Application Deadline:

Formal review of applications will begin December 1, 2025 and continue until the position is filled.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

• Typical teaching load is 4/4 across all levels of the graphic design degrees.
• Sustaining a professional design practice or engaging in scholarly research.
• Actively engaging in undergraduate student recruitment and retention efforts.
• Participating in Foundations Reviews (typically sophomore year) and senior capstone reviews.
• Committee work and service to the University.
• Maintaining an awareness of contemporary art, design, and relevant technological advancements and sharing those in the classroom.
• Proficient knowledge of Adobe Creative Cloud applications in a MAC and PC environment.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

• Typical teaching load is 4/4 across all levels of the graphic design degrees.
• Sustaining a professional design practice or engaging in scholarly research.
• Actively engaging in undergraduate student recruitment and retention efforts.
• Participating in Foundations Reviews (typically sophomore year) and senior capstone reviews.
• Committee work and service to the University.
• Maintaining an awareness of contemporary art, design, and relevant technological advancements and sharing those in the classroom.
• Proficient knowledge of Adobe Creative Cloud applications in a MAC and PC environment.