The Memphis College of Art (MCA), once a premier institution for art education in Memphis, Tennessee, offered a range of positions in creative and administrative fields. Founded in 1936, MCA specialized in Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) programs, attracting passionate artists and educators. Although the college closed its doors in 2020 due to financial difficulties, understanding its job structure provides valuable insights for those seeking careers in art higher education. Positions at MCA emphasized hands-on studio work, innovative teaching, and community engagement in the vibrant Memphis arts scene.
Art colleges like MCA typically featured faculty roles teaching drawing, painting, sculpture, graphic design, and digital media. Administrative jobs supported student services, gallery operations, and enrollment. Salaries varied, with full-time faculty earning around $50,000 to $70,000 annually, depending on experience, according to historical data from similar institutions. The closure led to the campus sale to the University of Memphis, shifting opportunities locally.
Memphis College of Art began as the Memphis Academy of Art in Overton Park, evolving into a college in 1979. It built a legacy of nurturing artists through small class sizes and professional studios. Jobs at MCA were integral to this, with faculty mentoring students toward exhibitions and residencies. The institution's focus on contemporary practices meant roles required staying current with trends like digital fabrication and sustainable art materials.
Over 80 years, MCA employed hundreds in teaching and support roles, contributing to Memphis's cultural hub status alongside institutions like Rhodes College. Post-closure, its alumni and faculty network remains active, offering networking for job seekers in higher ed jobs.
Jobs at Memphis College of Art spanned creative and operational roles. Faculty positions included full-time professors, adjunct instructors, and lecturers in disciplines like studio art and design. Administrative opportunities covered registrar, admissions, and development staff. Technical roles, such as lab technicians for printmaking or photography, supported daily operations.
Common openings were for BFA program instructors, gallery coordinators, and student affairs advisors. For more on position types, visit university job types. These roles demanded a blend of artistic talent and pedagogical skills, reflecting MCA's studio-based learning model.
To secure faculty jobs at MCA, candidates needed at least a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in the relevant field, such as visual arts or graphic design. For leadership roles like department chairs, a terminal degree like MFA plus administrative experience was standard. PhD holders in art history or education were competitive for research-oriented positions.
Administrative jobs required bachelor's degrees in arts administration or related areas, with master's preferred for senior roles. Certifications in gallery management or accreditation processes (e.g., NASAD - National Association of Schools of Art and Design) added value. These qualifications ensured alignment with MCA's rigorous BFA accreditation standards.
MCA valued faculty with expertise in contemporary art practices, including interdisciplinary work combining traditional media with technology. Research foci included urban art influenced by Memphis's music heritage, community-based projects, and sustainable practices. Publications in journals like Artforum or exhibitions at local venues like the Memphis Brooks Museum were key indicators.
Expertise in digital tools (Adobe Suite, 3D modeling) was essential for design roles. Faculty often pursued grants from the Tennessee Arts Commission, enhancing their profiles for tenure-track jobs.
Preferred experience for jobs at MCA included 3-5 years of college-level teaching, a strong exhibition record, and grant funding success. Adjunct roles favored practicing artists with local Memphis connections. Administrative candidates needed experience in enrollment management or fundraising for arts nonprofits.
Check employer branding secrets for attracting talent like this.
Key skills for MCA jobs included proficiency in studio techniques, curriculum development, and student assessment. Soft skills like collaboration and cultural sensitivity were crucial in Memphis's diverse community. Technical competencies covered software like Photoshop and sculpture tools.
Competencies aligned with NASAD standards, emphasizing innovation and inclusivity.
Understanding key terms for jobs at Memphis College of Art:
The application process for MCA jobs involved submitting a CV, cover letter, portfolio (20-30 images), and references via email or portal. Interviews included teaching demos and studio visits.
Actionable tips:
Review how to write a winning academic CV for success.
MCA committed to diversity through the Diversity Scholarship, supporting underrepresented students in art programs. Faculty hiring prioritized inclusive perspectives, with workshops on cultural competency. The college partnered with Memphis organizations like the African American Museum for inclusive curricula. Post-closure, these efforts influence local art education.
MCA's Overton Park location offered a inspiring setting amid green spaces and the Memphis Zoo, fostering work-life balance. Faculty enjoyed flexible schedules for personal art practice, with semesters allowing studio time. Campus life included exhibitions, visiting artist lectures, and collaborations with Memphis College of Art Gallery, open to public. Events like open studios built community, though intense critique schedules demanded dedication. Benefits included health insurance and professional development funds.
With MCA closed, seek similar roles at University of Memphis Art Department or Memphis College of Art alumni networks. Explore research jobs, lecturer jobs, or faculty jobs in Tennessee. Local galleries and design firms offer adjunct-like positions.
While jobs at Memphis College of Art are no longer available due to closure, its legacy informs art careers in higher education. Aspiring professionals should build strong portfolios and networks. For current openings, browse higher ed jobs, seek higher ed career advice, or explore university jobs. Institutions like MCA highlight the rewards of creative academia. Post your profile or post a job on AcademicJobs.com to connect with opportunities.
View all University Jobs
Post and Connect – the new way of promoting your higher ed jobs
Reach qualified mca professionals across any industry. List your vacancy on AcademicJobs.com.
Get notified when new mca vacancies are posted on AcademicJobs.com.
