Assistant Professor of Music (Music Theory)

Ball State University • Muncie, IN

2d • $54,000 - $56,000

About The Position

The School of Music at Ball State University invites applications for a full-time, tenure-track Assistant Professor of Music (Music Theory), with a particular interest in undergraduate music theory pedagogy. The position begins August 16, 2027.

Teaching responsibilities are three courses per semester for the first four years. The successful candidate will teach the full range of music theory offerings, including fundamentals, aural skills, counterpoint, advanced undergraduate theory classes, and graduate courses in areas of interest. The position also involves maintaining an active program of research and publication appropriate for faculty at a major research university, as well as participating in recruitment, program development, and service to the School of Music, College of Fine Arts, University, and profession.

Applicants must have completed a doctorate by the time of appointment and have at least three years of teaching experience, including at least one year beyond the graduate-assistant level; experience in the undergraduate theory sequence is ideal. Preferred qualifications include experience with undergraduate music theory pedagogy, demonstrated excellence in undergraduate teaching, and the ability to contribute to the School of Music’s research output. Employer will consider sponsorship.

Required application materials are a cover letter explaining interest and qualifications, a curriculum vitae, and a writing sample. Applicants are also asked to provide contact information for at least three referees. For full consideration, applications must be received by December 1, 2026; applications may continue to be accepted until a sufficient applicant pool is achieved or the position is filled.

Requirements

• Doctorate completed by the time of appointment.
• At least three years of teaching experience, including at least one year beyond the graduate-assistant level; experience in the undergraduate theory sequence is ideal.
• Submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, and writing sample.
• Provide contact information for at least three referees.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with undergraduate music theory pedagogy.
• Demonstrated excellence in undergraduate teaching.
• Ability to contribute to the research output of the School of Music.
• Experience teaching in the undergraduate theory sequence.

Responsibilities

• Teach three courses per semester for the first four years.
• Teach music theory offerings including fundamentals, aural skills, counterpoint, advanced undergraduate theory classes, and graduate courses in areas of interest.
• Maintain an active program of research and publication in music theory appropriate for faculty at a major research university.
• Participate in recruitment and program development.
• Provide service to the School of Music, College of Fine Arts, University, and profession.

Benefits

• 12 paid sick days per year.
• 10 holidays per year.
• Six weeks of paid parental leave.
• Affordable health and dental insurance.
• Long-term disability insurance.
• Life insurance.
• Retirement benefits.
• Coverage of 90 percent of the employee's child's or children's undergraduate tuition at Ball State University, beginning on the employee's first day.
• Eligible new residents may qualify through MakeMyMove for up to $5,000 in relocation cash, co-working space, access to the Ball State University Library, a one-semester Rec Fit pass, discounted Ball State Athletics tickets, a local-resource help desk, opportunity for board participation, and a six-month YMCA membership; eligibility and availability may vary.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree