Instructor - Design

About the role

We are seeking educators and professionals to teach courses for the Design Department in the areas of Industrial Design, Graphic Design, Illustration, Animation, Photography, Interaction Design, or User Experience. Applications will be reviewed and placed in a pool for consideration for part-time (regular or temporary) teaching positions as they become available. Appointments are one semester, renewable, subject to review and funding.

This is an instructional, adjunct faculty position that is not eligible for tenure or promotion in rank. The position is a term appointment for the Fall 2026 semester, with renewal based on unit needs, funding, and performance, not to exceed two continuous semesters.

This position is subject to a collective bargaining agreement and is open to candidates eligible to work in the U.S. prior to the start date. Due to state employment laws, the University of Kansas may be unable to hire fully remote workers outside of Kansas, specifically excluding residents of California, Idaho, Minnesota, and Delaware.

Responsibilities

• Teaching scheduled courses in Design (70%)
• Class preparation and grading (20%)
• Holding office hours, advising students, and performing administrative duties such as entering grades (10%)
• Developing course materials, syllabi, lectures, and assignments
• Grading student work and providing feedback
• Collaborating with colleagues and staying current in the field
• Adhering to departmental, school/college, and university policies and procedures

Requirements

For Teaching at the Undergraduate Level:

• M.F.A. in appropriate discipline (NASAD or equivalent accredited terminal degree), or
• B.F.A. (NASAD or equivalent accredited degree) in appropriate discipline plus a minimum of 5 years of effective experience in professional practice and/or college-level teaching, with documented evidence of outstanding achievement such as:
  • National design awards or honors
  • Recognized work with national clients
  • Attainment of a senior leadership role in professional practice (e.g., Senior Designer, Art Director, Creative Director)

For Teaching at the Graduate Level:

• M.F.A. in appropriate discipline (NASAD or equivalent accredited terminal degree)
• A record of research, scholarship, or achievement in the field

This position requires a formal degree in the cited discipline area(s) to ensure foundational knowledge and skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced degree in a related Design field with extensive professional experience

Review of applications is ongoing. A portfolio may be requested at the time of interview.

Anticipated Start Date: Tuesday, August 18, 2026