The Academy of Art College (AAC), located in the vibrant city of Chicago, Illinois, stands as a premier institution dedicated to nurturing creative talent in the arts and design fields. Founded with a mission to provide professional art education, AAC offers a dynamic environment for students and professionals alike. For job seekers interested in higher ed jobs, this college represents a hub for careers in teaching, research, and administration within the creative industries. Chicago's rich cultural landscape, home to world-class museums like the Art Institute of Chicago, enhances the appeal of working here, offering endless inspiration and networking opportunities.
Careers at AAC span faculty positions in fine arts, graphic design, fashion, animation, and more, alongside administrative roles that support the college's operations. Whether you're a seasoned artist seeking to inspire the next generation or an administrator passionate about education, jobs at Academy of Art College provide a chance to contribute to a community that values innovation and artistic expression.
Established in 1929, the Academy of Art College has evolved from a small art school into a leading institution for creative education. Originally focused on advertising art, it expanded to encompass a broad spectrum of disciplines, reflecting the changing landscape of the art world. Despite its roots in San Francisco (note: primary campus is there, with Chicago programs), the college's commitment to practical, industry-ready training has remained constant. Today, it serves thousands of students through on-campus and online programs, making it an attractive employer for those passionate about higher education in the arts.
The institution's growth mirrors Chicago's own artistic renaissance, with alumni contributing to global design firms and galleries. This history of adaptation positions AAC as a stable employer with opportunities for long-term careers in university jobs.
Academy of Art College boasts over 40 degree programs across schools of fine art, design, fashion, graphic design, illustration, animation and visual effects, photography, and architecture. These programs emphasize hands-on learning, portfolio development, and industry connections, preparing students for professional success. Faculty jobs often involve teaching studio courses, critiques, and mentoring capstone projects.
Administrative roles support these programs through student advising, curriculum development, and event coordination for exhibitions and portfolio reviews. Understanding these departments is key for tailoring applications to specific higher ed faculty jobs.
Jobs at Academy of Art College include full-time faculty, adjunct instructors, chairs of departments, deans, and staff positions in admissions, career services, IT, and facilities. Full-time roles offer tenure-track paths, while adjunct positions provide flexible teaching schedules. For a complete list of position types, visit university job types.
These roles leverage Chicago's art scene, with opportunities to collaborate on local projects and internships.
To help understand key terms in academia at AAC:
For faculty jobs at Academy of Art College, a master's degree in the relevant field (e.g., MFA in Fine Arts) is typically required, with a PhD preferred for tenure-track positions. Administrative roles may require a bachelor's in arts administration or business, plus experience in higher education. All candidates need demonstrated teaching ability and a strong professional portfolio.
Entry-level staff positions, like lab technicians, require associate degrees or certifications in art-related technologies.
AAC emphasizes practice-based research, such as experimental design, sustainable fashion, and digital innovation. Faculty are expected to maintain active creative practices, exhibiting work and publishing in art journals. Expertise in Adobe Suite, 3D modeling, or emerging media is highly valued for research jobs.
Preferred candidates have 3-5 years of teaching experience, industry portfolios with client work from firms like Nike or Adobe, publications in art magazines, and grants from organizations like the National Endowment for the Arts. Leadership in professional associations adds value.
Essential skills include proficiency in studio teaching, mentoring diverse students, digital tools (Photoshop, Illustrator), project management, and communication. Competencies like cultural sensitivity and innovation are critical in Chicago's multicultural art community. For lecturer roles, see lecturer jobs.
The application process starts with submitting a CV, cover letter, and portfolio via the AAC careers portal. Interviews include teaching demos and portfolio reviews.
Prepare for questions on integrating industry trends into curriculum. Learn more from higher ed career advice.
Academy of Art College actively promotes diversity through the Diversity & Inclusion Council, scholarships for underrepresented artists, and inclusive hiring. They partner with organizations like the National Association of Schools of Art and Design for equitable practices. Recent initiatives include bias training and affinity groups for LGBTQ+ and BIPOC faculty.
AAC fosters work-life balance with flexible schedules, sabbaticals for faculty, wellness programs, and proximity to Chicago's cultural hubs like Millennium Park. Campus life buzzes with exhibitions, guest lectures, and collaborations, creating a supportive community. Remote options for some roles enhance flexibility. Employees enjoy tuition discounts and creative studio access.
Jobs at Academy of Art College offer exciting prospects in a creative haven. Explore more higher ed jobs, get higher ed career advice, search university jobs, or post a job to attract talent. Check employer branding secrets and become a university lecturer guides.
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