Tenure-Track Assistant Professor of Foundations
About The Position
James Madison University’s School of Art, Design and Art History invites applications for a full-time, 10-month, tenure-track Assistant Professor of Foundations. The appointment begins August 10, 2027, and ends two weeks after Commencement in May. Preference will be given to candidates with strong design backgrounds who can contribute to developing the Foundations Program, particularly by expanding its design component through design principles, creative problem-solving, visual communication, and interdisciplinary approaches. The successful candidate will teach three Foundations courses each semester, focusing on Color and Composition (FDS 102), Observational Drawing (FDS 104), Form and Space (FDS 106), and Expressive and Expanded Drawing (FDS 108). The courses prepare students for a range of disciplines, including studio art, graphic design, architectural design, and industrial design. The role calls for participation in a collaborative community that fosters independent thought and creativity, embraces cultural expression, and cultivates excellence in the Foundations Program. The successful candidate is expected to be on campus and available to students four days per week during the academic year, and to serve the program and school. The university is particularly interested in candidates committed to building an engaging educational environment. Applicants must submit a letter of application addressing teaching and professional or creative practice, research interests, and contributions or potential contributions to the classroom, program, and university; a teaching philosophy statement; a curriculum vitae; a 15–20-page PDF portfolio containing student work and professional scholarship or creative activity; and a sample syllabus and/or project description for one of the listed Foundations courses. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a criminal background check.
Requirements
- Terminal degree in Art, Design, or a closely related field (e.g., MFA, MID, MDes, M.Arch, or equivalent).
- Teaching experience in foundational classes, especially for an Art and/or Design School.
- Experience teaching digital processes and tools, as well as traditional media.
- Evidence of an active professional or creative practice in art, design, or interdisciplinary fields.
Nice To Haves
- Strong background in design.
- Successful teaching experience with beginning undergraduate art/design students.
- Evidence of an active professional or creative practice for at least five years beyond completion of the graduate degree.
- Demonstrated commitment to building an engaging educational environment.
- Evidence of curriculum development or interest in strengthening the design component of a Foundations Program serving multiple art and design disciplines.
Responsibilities
- Teach three courses each semester in the Foundations Program, focusing on Color and Composition (FDS 102), Observational Drawing (FDS 104), Form and Space (FDS 106), and Expressive and Expanded Drawing (FDS 108).
- Prepare students for a broad range of disciplines, including studio art, graphic design, architectural design, and industrial design.
- Contribute to the continued development of the Foundations Program, with particular interest in strengthening and expanding its design component.
- Participate in the collaborative community of the program and school, serving the program and school.
- Be on campus and available to students four days per week during the academic year.
Benefits
- Dual Career and Community Resources Program is available to candidates relocating to the area.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
