The Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), pronounced "Riz-dee," stands as one of the world's leading institutions for art and design education. Located in the vibrant city of Providence, Rhode Island, this private college has shaped creative minds since its founding in 1877. With a focus on hands-on studio learning, RISD attracts professionals passionate about fostering innovation in fields like fine arts, graphic design, architecture, and industrial design. Jobs at Rhode Island School of Design offer unique opportunities to contribute to a community where making is central to learning.
RISD's campus, nestled along College Hill, includes 21 studio buildings and the renowned RISD Museum of Art, which houses over 50,000 works. The school's proximity to Brown University enhances collaborative prospects, making it a hub for interdisciplinary work. Whether you're an artist, designer, educator, or administrator, positions here blend creativity with academic rigor.
Jobs at Rhode Island School of Design span faculty, staff, and leadership roles tailored to its mission of advancing art and design. Faculty positions dominate, with openings in 19 undergraduate departments and 17 graduate programs. Common roles include:
For a deeper dive into university job types, RISD emphasizes roles that support its BFA (Bachelor of Fine Arts) and MFA (Master of Fine Arts) programs. Explore higher ed faculty jobs or administration jobs for similar opportunities.
To understand jobs at Rhode Island School of Design, key terms include:
Securing jobs at Rhode Island School of Design typically demands strong academic credentials aligned with creative disciplines. For tenure-track faculty positions, an MFA is the minimum requirement in fields like painting, photography, or furniture design. Senior roles, such as department heads, often seek candidates with 5-10 years of post-MFA professional experience or a PhD in art history or related areas.
Administrative jobs may require a bachelor's degree plus specialized training, like an MLS (Master of Library Science) for library positions. Research assistant roles prefer recent MFA graduates with studio experience. RISD values credentials from peer institutions like Pratt Institute or Yale School of Art.
RISD prioritizes expertise in practice-based research over traditional lab work. Faculty jobs emphasize innovative approaches in areas like sustainable design, digital fabrication, or social practice art. For instance, the Glass department seeks experts in contemporary techniques, while Architecture focuses on urbanism and computation.
Candidates should demonstrate a portfolio showcasing exhibitions at venues like the RISD Museum or international galleries. Interdisciplinary expertise, such as combining textiles with technology, is highly valued. Learn more about research jobs in higher ed.
Preferred experience for jobs at Rhode Island School of Design includes:
Past roles at art schools or museums strengthen applications. Adjunct positions favor practicing artists with local Providence networks.
Essential skills for RISD roles include technical proficiency (e.g., Rhino for 3D modeling, Adobe Suite), pedagogical innovation, and collaborative spirit. Competencies like cultural competency, project management for senior projects, and adaptability to critique-based teaching are key. Soft skills such as empathy and communication thrive in RISD's intimate classes of 15-20 students.
The application process for jobs at Rhode Island School of Design begins on their careers site (risd.edu/jobs). Submit a cover letter, CV, portfolio (20-30 images/PDF), teaching statement, and 3 references. Deadlines align with academic cycles, e.g., fall hires posted in spring.
Tips for success:
Follow up politely. Review how to write a winning academic CV for edge.
RISD commits to equity through the Liberty Fund, supporting underrepresented artists, and the DEI office's bias training. Initiatives include the Racial Justice Task Force (2020), expanding scholarships for BIPOC students, and inclusive hiring with anonymous portfolio reviews. Affinity groups for LGBTQ+ and first-gen faculty foster belonging. In 2023, 45% of new hires identified as people of color.
RISD supports balance with a 9-month faculty contract, optional summer teaching, and parental leave. Wellness includes free yoga, counseling, and RISD Gym access. Providence offers affordable living, WaterFire events, and proximity to Boston/NYC.
Campus life buzzes with crits, exhibitions, and collaborations like RISD/Brown dual degrees. Faculty enjoy studio spaces and museum perks, blending work with inspiration in a walkable, creative city.
RISD's 2,400 undergraduates and 500 faculty create a dynamic environment. With a $300M+ endowment, stability meets innovation. Providence's cost of living (20% below national average) enhances appeal.
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