Faculty | Asst. or Assoc. Professor of Communication Arts Emphasis

Assistant/Associate Professor of Communication Arts Emphasis

The University of Mary in Bismarck, ND, invites applications for a full-time Assistant/Associate Professor of Communication with an emphasis in art. Housed in the Communication Program in the School of Arts and Sciences, this position emphasizes art instruction and active support of the University's Christian, Catholic, and Benedictine mission. The anticipated start date is August 2026.

Position Responsibilities

Teach undergraduate art courses across the Communication and Core curriculum, with an emphasis determined by the candidate's area of expertise.

Depending on specialization, teach courses such as:

• Drawing
• Painting (Acrylic, Oil, Watercolor)
• Digital Art, Graphic Design, and Digital Illustration
• Photography
• Art History or Art Theory

Advise and mentor Communication students, supporting their artistic growth, professional development, and vocational discernment.

Maintain an active creative practice that contributes to the artistic and academic life of the university.

Participate in departmental service, curriculum development, assessment, and community engagement.

Support and advance the Christian, Catholic, and Benedictine mission of the University of Mary in teaching, advising, and creative work.

Desired Minimum Qualifications, Education, and Experience

Required

• Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Visual Art, Studio Art, Photography, Design, or a closely related field.
• Demonstrated ability to teach foundational and intermediate art courses within the Communication major and Core curriculum in at least one of the following areas: drawing, painting, photography, digital art, or graphic design.
• Functional knowledge and practical proficiency relevant to the candidate's area of expertise.
• Commitment to supporting the Christian, Catholic, and Benedictine mission of the University of Mary.

Preferred

• College-level teaching experience.
• Ability to teach across multiple art areas.
• Experience integrating the Catholic art or the liberal arts traditions into art instruction.
• Evidence of an active creative practice, including exhibitions, commissions, or community arts involvement.

Mission Expectations

All faculty are expected to support and advance the Christian, Catholic, and Benedictine identity of the University of Mary. This includes participation in the ongoing implementation of Ex Corde Ecclesiae and fostering a culture of hospitality in accord with Saint Benedict's teaching that all be received as Christ.

About the University of Mary

The University of Mary is a private, Christian, Catholic, Benedictine university that welcomes students of all faiths and backgrounds. Benedictine values shape the educational experience, which includes strong liberal arts foundations, professional preparation, global and civic engagement, and close faculty mentorship. The University of Mary is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association.

Application Process

Review of applications begins immediately and continues until the position is filled. Applicants should submit:

• Cover letter addressing qualifications and interest.
• Current curriculum vitae (CV).
• Teaching philosophy statement.
• Samples of creative work (portfolio or website).
• Evidence of teaching effectiveness (e.g., student evaluations or peer reviews).
• Names and contact information for three professional references

Equal Opportunity Employer