Assistant Professor of Graphic Design

About the role

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.

Responsibilities

• 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.
• Perform effectively in teaching, creative scholarship, and service.
• Collaboratively oversee and operate the graphic design program and its lab.
• Supervise internships, mentor and advise undergraduate students.
• Contribute to retention and recruitment efforts.
• Foster a positive and productive departmental culture.

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.
• 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).

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. 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.