The Corcoran School of the Arts & Design, nestled in the heart of Washington, DC, stands as a premier destination for creative professionals seeking fulfilling careers. Part of the George Washington University's Columbian College of Arts & Sciences since 2014, this institution traces its roots to the historic Corcoran Gallery of Art founded in 1869 by philanthropist William Wilson Corcoran. Jobs at the Corcoran School of Arts & Design encompass faculty positions, administrative roles, support staff opportunities, and internships that immerse individuals in a dynamic environment fostering artistic innovation and education.
Whether you aspire to teach aspiring artists, curate groundbreaking exhibitions, or manage operations in a culturally rich setting, the Corcoran offers pathways to contribute to its legacy. Located on The Ellipse facing the White House, the school provides unparalleled access to DC's museums, galleries, and policy influencers, making it an ideal hub for higher ed faculty jobs in the arts. Professionals here engage with undergraduate programs in fine arts, dance, and photojournalism, as well as graduate offerings like the Master of Fine Arts (MFA), shaping the next generation of global creatives.
Understanding the history of the Corcoran School illuminates why jobs here are so distinctive. Established in 1878 as an independent art school linked to the Corcoran Gallery—the oldest private cultural institution in Washington—the school endured challenges like Civil War occupation of its building. By 2014, financial pressures led to its integration with GWU, revitalizing its mission while preserving its artistic heritage.
This evolution influences today's job landscape: faculty roles often involve historic spaces and collections, administrative positions support legacy events, and research draws from a century-plus of American art focus. Careers at Corcoran blend tradition with modernity, appealing to those passionate about art education in a politically charged city.
The Corcoran's programs define the expertise needed for its positions. Undergraduate offerings include Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in fine arts, minors in art history, and unique tracks in photojournalism and dance. Graduate programs, such as the MFA in Fine Arts, emphasize advanced studio practice, research, and professional development.
These curricula demand faculty with hands-on teaching experience and active creative practices. For instance, instructors in fine arts guide students through boundary-pushing projects, while design faculty explore social impact. Administrative jobs support these through admissions, continuing education, and gallery management, ensuring seamless program delivery.
Diverse opportunities abound. Faculty positions include tenure-track roles in art theory, curatorial studies, and studio arts—check university job types for details. Beyond teaching, expect administrative openings like program coordinators, admissions officers, marketing specialists, and facilities staff maintaining iconic venues.
Support roles cover gallery managers and studio assistants, vital for operations. Students access part-time gigs such as event staff and work-study internships, building portfolios while contributing. Recent listings highlight research-focused faculty and operational staff, reflecting the school's growth post-merger.
MFA (Master of Fine Arts): A terminal degree for artists, emphasizing studio production, critique, and professional preparation, often required for teaching fine arts.
BFA (Bachelor of Fine Arts): An undergraduate degree focused on intensive studio training in visual arts, design, or performance.
Tenure-track: A faculty path leading to permanent employment after probationary reviews based on teaching, research, and service.
Curatorial Studies: The practice of selecting, organizing, and interpreting art exhibitions, blending scholarship and public engagement.
For faculty jobs at the Corcoran School of Arts & Design, a minimum MFA or PhD in a relevant field like fine arts, graphic design, or art history is standard. Research focus centers on contemporary practices, interdisciplinary art, social justice themes in design, and curatorial innovation—evident in programs pushing creative boundaries.
Preferred experience includes publications in art journals, grants for exhibitions, solo shows, and teaching portfolios. Skills encompass studio proficiency (e.g., painting, sculpture, digital media), mentorship abilities, and familiarity with DC's art ecosystem. Administrative roles prioritize organizational skills, CRM software knowledge, and event planning.
Explore how to write a winning academic CV to stand out.
The application process begins on the Corcoran careers page or GWU's portal. Prepare a tailored CV, cover letter, portfolio (digital for arts roles), letters of recommendation, and teaching statement. Deadlines vary; faculty searches often align with academic cycles.
Tips: Highlight DC connections or policy-art intersections. Customize for the role—e.g., emphasize curation for gallery jobs. Network via exhibitions or alumni events. Follow up professionally. Use free resume templates optimized for academia. Interviews may include demos or portfolio reviews; prepare to discuss pedagogy.
The Corcoran School actively advances diversity through GWU's equity framework. Initiatives include targeted recruitment for underrepresented groups in arts faculty, scholarships for diverse students, and exhibitions amplifying marginalized voices. Programs like inclusive curriculum reviews and affinity groups foster belonging. Hiring practices prioritize diverse candidate pools, with training on bias mitigation. Examples: Support for artists of color via residencies and partnerships with DC's multicultural institutions.
Work-life balance at Corcoran benefits from flexible academic schedules, remote options for admin, and DC's vibrant lifestyle. Faculty enjoy sabbaticals for creative work, while staff access wellness programs and transit perks. Campus life buzzes with exhibitions, guest lectures, and proximity to Smithsonian museums—ideal for inspiration. The urban setting offers networking at galleries, policy events, and cultural festivals, blending professional growth with personal enrichment. GWU resources like family leave and mental health support enhance sustainability in demanding creative fields.
Ready to pursue higher ed jobs? Browse university jobs, get higher ed career advice, or post your opening via recruitment services. For faculty paths, see professor jobs.
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