Assistant Teaching Professor of Film Studies

University of Colorado•Denver, CO

1d•$62,000 - $67,000•Onsite

About The Position

The University of Colorado Denver’s Department of Film & Television in the College of Arts & Media seeks an educator, film scholar, or creative professional for a full-time Teaching Track position specializing in Film History, Film Theory, and Film Criticism. The role bridges critical academic discourse with contemporary industry perspectives and supports students in the BFA Film and Television program, whose cohort-based curriculum combines film and television production with historical and theoretical study. The position’s allocation is 80% teaching, 10% scholarly/research activity, and 10% service. The professor teaches three classes per semester (nine credit hours), or six courses per academic year (18 credit hours). Instruction includes introductory and intermediate undergraduate courses in film history, theory, and criticism, as well as specialized upper-division seminars. The professor also contributes to integrating critical studies into the BFA production curriculum and expands student connections with industry professionals. The role requires an onsite campus presence for teaching, mentoring, and departmental engagement; occasional evening or weekend work may be required for events. The successful candidate maintains an active scholarly, research, and/or creative practice and participates in departmental, college, and university service. The position is not eligible for visa sponsorship or overtime compensation. The stated salary range is $62,000–$67,000.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in film studies, cinema/media studies, or a closely related field.
A record of professional distinction and recognized expertise demonstrated by substantial published work, such as three significant published pieces or one book; examples include books, film criticism, essays, cultural journalism, public-facing scholarship, or other significant writing on film, media, or related subjects.
One year of successful university-level teaching experience.
Two years of experience in mid-level, production, or editorial industry roles.
Deep understanding of foundational and contemporary film theory, world film history, global movements, and critical frameworks.
Strong understanding of current media industry trends and distribution landscapes.
Excellent oral and written communication skills.
Effective pedagogical techniques for engaging BFA production students in critical analysis.
Strong networking and organizational abilities to build external industry partnerships.
Ability to explain complex theoretical and historical concepts clearly, mentor and advise undergraduates on academic and career trajectories, and collaborate within a cohort-based program.
Ability to work onsite on campus for teaching, student mentoring, and departmental engagement.
Ability to sit for extended periods; stand and walk occasionally; reach with hands and arms; use a keyboard and mouse; and perform computer work requiring good near vision. The role often involves minimal lifting and may involve bending or reaching to retrieve items.
Must consent to and pass a background check prior to final appointment/employment.

Nice To Haves

Ph.D. or terminal degree in film studies, cinema/media studies, or a related discipline.
Three years of successful university-level teaching experience, with demonstrated teaching excellence, pedagogical development, and curriculum contribution.
Experience integrating critical theory and historical perspectives into a production-focused BFA curriculum.
Experience providing academic guidance, mentoring, tutoring, or instructional support to students in an educational setting.
Substantial professional accomplishment and recognized expertise demonstrated through extensive industry experience.
Experience in senior, lead, or leadership industry roles with demonstrated field impact.

Responsibilities

Teach three classes per semester (nine credit hours), for six classes per academic year (18 credit hours).
Teach introductory and intermediate undergraduate courses in Film History, Film Theory, and Film Criticism.
Develop and deliver specialized upper-division seminars in areas such as critical studies, genre analysis, auteur studies, contemporary global cinema, or industry practices.
Guide the growth and integration of critical studies coursework within the BFA production curriculum in coordination with departmental priorities.
Expand student connections with industry professionals through initiatives such as a curated extracurricular speaker series, community outreach, and other engagement events.
Maintain an active scholarly, research, and/or creative practice in film studies, critical writing, or media history.
Participate in departmental, college, and university service, including student advising, curriculum review, committee work, and service to the college, community, and profession.
Mentor and advise undergraduate students in an onsite learning environment.