Assistant Professor of Communication: Theory & Methods

About the role

The San Diego State University School of Communication seeks to hire a tenure-track assistant professor with expertise in communication theory and methods. The successful candidate is expected to have a strong program of communication scholarship grounded in communication theory and methods, with applications across instructional, interpersonal, intercultural, organizational, health, environmental, or digital communication that support a rigorous and impactful research agenda.

Responsibilities

• Teach and serve as the coordinator for three foundational undergraduate courses: communication theory (COMM 300–Conceptualizing Communication), communication methods (COMM 350–Investigating Communication), and the culminating undergraduate capstone course (COMM 495–Communication Capstone).
• Teach foundational courses in communication theory (COMM 610) and methods (COMM 602) at the graduate level.

Requirements

• A record of original research/scholarly accomplishments.
• Demonstrated capacity to a) develop a vigorous and independent program of research/scholarship, b) teach communication courses; and c) engage in both campus and professional service activities.
• Demonstration of past accomplishments and/or future plans in at least three of the “Building on Inclusive Excellence” criteria.

Qualifications

• PhD degree in communication, with all degree requirements met.

Preferred Qualifications

• Demonstrated expertise in the discipline and its methodologies.
• Strong program of communication scholarship within the context of instructional, interpersonal, intercultural, organizational, health, and/or digital communication research that aligns with our R1 university goals.
• Experience with peer mentorship, exploring best pedagogical practices in teaching and learning, and willingness to take on administrative responsibilities.
• Ability to direct advanced undergraduate and/or graduate student research.

Benefits

The minimum salary for this position is based on the current CSU salary schedule and may be revised based on contract collective bargaining. The anticipated salary range is from $85,000-$88,000. Salary placement will be based on the selected candidate’s qualifications and experience, and salaries higher than the published maximums may be offered in limited circumstances.

Pay

The minimum salary for this position is based on the current CSU salary schedule and may be revised based on contract collective bargaining. The anticipated salary range is from $85,000-$88,000. Salary placement will be based on the selected candidate’s qualifications and experience, and salaries higher than the published maximums may be offered in limited circumstances.

Schedule

The anticipated start date is TBD. The position is expected to begin in Fall 2026.