Assistant Professor in Practice - Composition (Music)

Stephen F. Austin State University • Main Campus, TX

2d

About The Position

The School of Music at Stephen F. Austin State University seeks an active composer for an open-rank, non-tenure-track faculty position in its professional experience program, ranging from Lecturer to Assistant Professor in Practice. The role is part-time or full-time and is scheduled to begin in the fall 2027 semester. The successful candidate will have college-level teaching experience and a growing or established professional reputation, and will contribute to a composition area that prepares students for work across traditional concert and chamber music, film scoring, and game scoring. The program also offers one of the nation’s few online degrees in theory-composition and emphasizes rigorous, engaging distance education.

The teaching assignment focuses on applied composition, media scoring, and related undergraduate and graduate classes, taught both in person and online. Candidates should bring strong DAW skills, an understanding of music implementation in games and film, and experience in traditional arranging, orchestration, and interdisciplinary collaboration. The position works under limited supervision, with moderate latitude for initiative and independent judgment, and reports to the academic unit head.

The faculty member prepares and delivers classes, completes a predetermined teaching load during the regular academic year, and may undertake supplemental instruction, independent studies, internships, and advising. The role also includes examination administration and grading, and service to the university and profession. Teaching-load reductions through reassignment of duties may be possible under certain circumstances.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in composition or media scoring.
• Two years of teaching experience.
• Practical experience sufficient to teach at the university level, through teaching or professional work.
• Extensive knowledge and practical experience in the field being taught.
• Ability to effectively teach undergraduate and/or graduate students.
• Ability to work within a collaborative faculty environment.
• Effective oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively and patiently with students.
• Strong DAW skills and understanding of music implementation in games and film.
• Experience with traditional arranging, orchestration, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Nice To Haves

• Earned doctorate or equivalent professional experience.
• College-level teaching experience in composition.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and deliver classes to undergraduate and/or graduate students.
• Complete the predetermined teaching load during the regular academic year.
• Compile, administer, and grade examinations.
• Provide service to the university and the profession.
• May conduct supplemental instructional activities, including independent studies, internships, and advising.
• May supervise student and/or graduate assistants.
• May serve on departmental, college, and university committees.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level