Assistant Professor Tenure-Track - Digital Media

Texas A&M University System • Stephenville, TX

82d

About The Position

Tarleton State University, a distinguished Doctoral National Comprehensive University, invites applications for the position of Assistant Professor Tenure-Track of Digital Media in the Department of Visual Arts & Design. As part of a vibrant academic community dedicated to excellence in teaching, research, and service, this role offers the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to a university that values innovation, collaboration, and inclusive growth. Join us in advancing knowledge and transforming lives—on campus and beyond. Tarleton State University continues to grow its impact across Texas, with four distinct campuses located in Stephenville, Fort Worth, RELLIS-Bryan and Waco, along with a robust online community that extends our reach even further. At the heart of it all is Stephenville, where Tarleton State offers a dynamic environment for faculty and staff. From a lively live music scene and numerous local festivals to rich traditions rooted in the surrounding community, Stephenville provides a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere. No matter where you're located—on campus or online—you are part of a mission that transforms lives and makes a difference across the state of Texas and beyond. This is a 9-month tenure-track position located on Tarleton’s main campus in Stephenville, Texas. Work hours: Mon-Fri; 8 AM-5 PM or as work and teaching requirements indicate. May be required to teach at other campuses or online at the institution’s discretion.

Requirements

• Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.) degree in Digital Media, Animation, Game Design, Film/Video, or a related field.
• Minimum of three years of higher education teaching experience, preferably in digital media or a related field.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills in English.
• Demonstrate expertise in interaction design, 3D, and 4D design.
• Exhibit an understanding and mastery of established and emerging industry practices relevant to visual communication.
• Strong proficiency with industry-standard software (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite, Autodesk Maya/3ds Max, Unity, Unreal Engine, or similar).
• Demonstrated excellence in professional, creative, or academic contributions to digital media, gaming, animation, or film/video.
• Knowledge and understanding of disciplinary subject matter at a level adequate for graduate-level instruction.

Nice To Haves

• PhD in Game Studies, Film and Media Studies, Communication, or Arts and Technology.
• Six or more years of professional experience.
• Experience developing curriculum or leading workshops in digital media or related disciplines.
• Advanced skills in motion capture, virtual production, or interactive media design.
• Knowledge of visual effects (VFX), including proficiency with Houdini, and compositing techniques.
• Experience with scripting or programming languages related to gaming and animation (e.g., C#, Python, MEL, JavaScript).

Responsibilities

• Plan, prepare, and deliver lectures, seminars, and/or laboratory offerings to undergraduate and/or graduate students.
• Develop course syllabi, select instructional materials, and design assessments such as exams, quizzes, papers, etc.
• Assess student performance, provide timely feedback, and evaluate student learning outcomes to inform teaching practices and curriculum improvements.
• Engage students in active learning, foster critical thinking skills, and provide opportunities for discussion, collaboration, and hands-on learning.
• Provide academic support and guidance to students through office hours, feedback on assignments, and mentoring.
• Adhere to university policies, academic integrity standards, and accreditation requirements related to teaching responsibilities.
• Incorporate innovative teaching methods, technologies, and pedagogical approaches to enhance student learning and engagement.
• Engage in ongoing professional development activities to stay current in the field, improve teaching skills, and explore new instructional strategies.
• Collaborate with colleagues, departmental faculty, and university staff to coordinate course offerings, share resources, and contribute to program development and improvement.
• Participate in institutional service roles including but not limited to, college committees, advisory committees, student/faculty recruitment, and mentoring of new and part-time faculty.
• Assist Department Head with building the MFA program.
• Maintain an active agenda for research, scholarship, or creative activity appropriate to the applicant's academic discipline.
• Make original contributions to the advancement of knowledge/creative expression in the applicant's discipline through scholarly publication, presentation, or exhibition.
• Demonstrate potential for external funding, national impact, or professional recognition.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation commensurate with experience.
• Engaged faculty, staff, and alumni mentors.
• Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Master's degree